Nexus Community Partners

Nexus Community Partners is a nonprofit organization focused on building more engaged and powerful communities by supporting community initiatives that expand community wealth and foster social and human capital. Designated as a 501(c)(3) entity, the organization's mission emphasizes strengthening communities of color.

History

Founded in 2004 as Payne-Lake Community Partners, the organization initially aimed to support entrepreneurship, home ownership, and workforce initiatives in the Payne Ave. and Lake Street communities in St. Paul and Minneapolis. Over time, Nexus shifted its focus towards strengthening the social, cultural, and human capital of community residents.

Mission and Strategy

The mission of Nexus is to build more engaged and powerful communities of color by focusing on three core strategies:

• Strengthening Organizations and Leaders: Nexus provides funding and capacity-building support to community-based organizations, promoting equitable and sustainable community change.
• Developing Innovative Initiatives: Nexus develops creative projects such as educational leadership institutes and community engagement programs that advance equity and build community leadership.
• Aligning and Amplifying Resources: Nexus connects local efforts with broader regional and national initiatives, amplifying investments and creating leadership and economic opportunities in historically disinvested communities.

Program Initiatives

Nexus Community Partners operates several key initiatives:

• Nexus Community Engagement Institute (NCEI): Advances equity-based community engagement both locally and nationally.
• North Star Black Cooperative Fellowship: Supports emerging BIPOC-led cooperatives through fellowships and technical assistance.
• Worker Ownership Initiative: Focuses on cooperative development, including proposals for local government support for BIPOC-led cooperatives.

Impact and Partnerships

Nexus has experienced significant growth in demand for its services, reaching over 1,500 individuals and organizations. It collaborates with various organizations, including the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers and Propel Nonprofits, to enhance its financial infrastructure and community engagement efforts.

Financial Overview

As of recent financial filings, contributions form the bulk of Nexus' revenue, reflecting its reliance on philanthropic support. The organization also generates revenue from program services and investment income. Nexus maintains a strong financial position with substantial assets and manageable liabilities, supporting its mission-driven work across the Twin Cities.