Inside this newsletter, you'll read about some of those stories, along with the ways we're continuing to support small businesses, invest in affordable housing and commercial spaces, and strengthen our community through thoughtful development and partnership.
We'd also like to share an important organizational update.
After 4.5 years with Redesign, our Executive Director Andy Hestness, has decided to pursue an exciting new professional opportunity. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and the many contributions he has made to Redesign and our community, and we wish him the best in his next chapter.
We are excited to have Amy Brugh join our team as Interim Executive Director. Amy is an experienced nonprofit leader who specializes in helping organizations navigate leadership transitions while supporting strong operations and preparing for long-term success.
Throughout this transition, we remain committed to serving our residents, businesses, partners, and community.
Thank you for being part of Redesign's work. We look forward to continuing that work. Together.
We're looking for community volunteers to help us better understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing businesses in Greater Longfellow.
As a volunteer, you'll visit local businesses and conduct a short survey with business owners. Opportunities are available August through November, and you can participate in as many (or as few) business visits as you'd like, at whatever time/s you'd like.
To help you feel prepared, we're providing a volunteer training on Tuesday, July 28 from 4-5PM.
Whether you're passionate about supporting small businesses, meeting local entrepreneurs, or giving back to your community, we'd love to have you on the team!
Did you fill ten spaces on your Small Business BINGO card? Bring it by the Redesign/Longfellow Community Council table at Friday's Corn Roast at Longfellow Park to be entered for a prize from a fabulous local business!
Redesign provides free and low-cost services to entrepreneurs and small businesses in our community. Reach out if you or an entrepreneur you know needs:
We are proud to invest in the community assets that help neighborhoods thrive; arts organizations, cultural institutions, gathering spaces, and local partnerships. Foci: Minnesota Center for Glass Arts exemplifies how creativity can strengthen community connections, support local economies, and contribute to a vibrant sense of place.
On a hot July day, we celebrated the art and artists that brought together more than $500,000 in permanent public art, making Wadaag Commons one of the most significant investments in culturally grounded public art in the Seward neighborhood. Created by local artists, this work may be the most visible Islamic-style public art installation in the City of Minneapolis.
Last month, Redesign joined NACDI, SCCA, FABA, and SNG to host a community conversation and guided walking tour of the Franklin Ave East Cultural Corridor. The experience highlighted the corridor's rich history of Native leadership, decades of community-driven planning, and the importance of creating spaces where neighbors can learn from one another. Read our latest blog to explore why conversations like these are an essential part of building stronger, more connected communities.
In case you need another reason to eat a delicious meal at a local restaurant, join Redesign's staff every month as we dine around Greater Longfellow. Sign up here to receive updates on when and where.
The Story of the Milwaukee Ave Townhomes
Built in 1975, the Milwaukee Avenue Townhomes tell the story of a community that chose preservation over demolition and collaboration over displacement. Developed by Redesign during a pivotal moment in Minneapolis' history, the townhomes became an early example of how affordable housing, thoughtful design, and community leadership can work together to create lasting impact. Discover how this quiet corner of Seward continues to reflect the values that have guided Redesign for more than 50 years.
If you are an individual or organization serving the Greater Longfellow area, we invite you to come checkout our new co-location workspace on The Historic Coliseum Building's third floor. We've created a sunny, flexible, collaborative space to encourage cross-collaboration and idea generation among like-minded groups and individuals. Learn more!
Redesign aims to be your voice in community development. What do you want to see in the neighborhood?
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