Changing with the times to help Minneapolis neighborhoods thrive

For nearly 150 years, Pillsbury United Communities has worked across Minneapolis to provide everything from youth programs and employment services to food assistance and a world class theater.

Its work is rooted in a simple idea: The people who live in the neighborhood are the ones who know how to make their lives there better.

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with the new president and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities about taking the helm at a time when local communities are facing so many challenges, and how the arts and connection can help people heal.

Guests:

• Signe Harriday is the new president and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities, one of the Twin Cities’ oldest and largest nonprofits. The organization runs several community centers in Minneapolis and programs aimed at uplifting communities. She previously acted, directed and taught with Pillsbury House + Theatre before becoming the organization’s artistic producing director in 2021.

• Antonio Cardona is director of advancement at Pillsbury United Communities. He was previously the vice president of career readiness at Project for Pride in Living. Before that, he worked at Pillsbury for 15 years, primarily overseeing workforce development and charter schools.

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.