About Us

Providing the Focus for Our Organization

Behind our commitment to work issues regarding Somali women and girls is a philosophy that provides the focus for our organization. This philosophy consists of a vision, a mission by which we can achieve that vision, and a set of core values that define how we approach everything we do:

Our idea is to operate volunteer programs around the twin cities in partnership with sustainable community initiatives, bringing people together to work side-by-side while sharing perspectives and fostering cultural understanding; as a result where people value cultures different from their own, are aware of overall issues, and are empowered to effect positive change. We are a non profit organization with no political or religious affiliations.

  • We are faithful to the purpose for which resources are entrusted to us and manage them in a manner that brings maximum benefit to the Somali women and young girls in Twin Cities.

  • We are responsive to the felt needs of Somali women and young girl in Twin Cities.

  • We encourage others to treat Somali women and girl settlers as equal members of the larger Minnesotan communities

Who We Are

Midwest Community Development Inc. (MCDI) is a group of Somali women and girls in the Twin Cities (Minneapolis-St. Paul area) of Minnesota. Our mission is to provide Somali women and girls a safe atmosphere to develop their gifts, abilities and positive relationships. We do this through the provision of leadership and mentoring programs, consultation and information services; and through community capacity building, and training and education.

Our Vision

We believe in providing opportunities to enhance personal growth, autonomy and empowerment of women and girls so that they can achieve fulfillment and maximize their potential.

Our Values

  • DIGNITY: We affirm the dignity and self worth of each individual, and honor and respect their rights.

  • LEARNING: We believe in and encourage continual learning and growth for ourselves, and for young women and girls.

  • COURAGE: We affirm and value the courage and determination of Somali women and girls to persevere and gain control over their own lives.

  • COMMITMENT & DEDICATION: We are focused on our strategic direction and achievement of positive outcomes for single moms, young women and girls.

  • RESPECT: We believe in everyone’s right to be respected regardless of differences.

  • INTEGRITY: We aim to exemplify integrity in our work.

  • UNITY: We strive to eliminate the barriers that divide us.

  • PARTNERSHIPS: We believe in collaboration and bringing people together to achieve a common goal.


What We Do

Through our relevant and innovative projects we address important issues that Somali women and girls face every day, which include: racism, sexism, self esteem, cultural alienation, issues leading to school drop out, Islam phobia, anger management, career planning, positive role models, family communication, developing self-control, stress-management, responsible decision-making, social problem-solving and communication skills.

Please visit our "Initiatives" to see what projects we are involved in to date.

Midwest Community Development Inc.’s is committed to empowering women and girls in interfaith and community settings by building self-esteem and leadership through education, financial literacy, health and wellness. MCDI achieves this work by promoting strategies which teach women and girls to connect a healthy mind, body, and soul and achieve an overall sense of well-being.

Our Core Values

Our idea is to facilitate a healthy conversation about the important issues and health needs that impact women & girls in faith-based and community settings, and also to inspire the community to improve understanding and raise awareness. Ultimately, we aspire to create Somali women leaders within their communities to lead by example, and transform their faith-based communities to serve as models of wellness.

The heart being at the core of physical and spiritual health, the MCDI Project strives to empower women and girls in the following areas:

  • Health Education – to increase access to accurate information and resources about ones body and health issues, while promoting positive self-esteem and self-image
  • Advocacy – for culturally-sensitive health care services and education for faith-based communities
  • Research – generate data and information about the status of women and girls from faith-based and cultural communities
  • Training – increase skill sets for women and girls to become leaders of wellness in their communities
  • Shared Humanity - when people of different cultures have an opportunity to connect, there comes an understanding of our shared humanity.
  • Integrity - we commit to ensuring the safety, flexibility, professionalism, transparency and excellence of our programs.