The foundation of the Rotary Club of Edina recently awarded a grant of $2,500 to Oasis for Youth.Oasis for Youth was created in 2010 by community members in response to the alarming rise in the number of suburban youth experiencing homelessness and the lack of any services designed to meet their needs in south suburban Hennepin County. Oasis for Youth was the first suburban drop-in center in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, focusing on youth who live, work or attend school in Edina, Bloomington and Richfield.
Much of Oasis for Youth’s property was damaged in a recent flood at Oak Grove Church. The non-profit’s offices, storage and youth space had to be relocated. The money from the Edina Rotary Foundation will be used for mobile outreach and to ensure the community’s youth have their needs met while reconstruction takes place.
“What never changes or can be stopped by any amount of water is our dedication to youth,” said Oasis for Youth Executive Director Nicole Mills. “[The Edina Rotary Foundation’s] financial contribution will go directly to support our mission to be the trusted resource committed to elevating youth in our own community."
Money for grants awarded by the Edina Rotary Foundation is raised at an annual fall fundraiser and gala and donations made throughout the year.