Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners

I have been a volunteer for about 10 years. I have watched staff offer respectful, dignified assistance for individuals experiencing unexpected situations. I personally appreciate having a place to volunteer that respects our community members. Everyone interested in volunteering can find a spot to be a helping hand.

Great resource in the community to assist with stability and navigation of different resources like employment & housing! The resale store is amazing with quality things at affordable pricing. I am always met with kindness and sincerity when coming to IOCP

I have been a resident of Plymouth for over 20 years, am a former Wayzata public school teacher and practice my faith in Wayzata. Interfaith weaves all threads of our lives here together. Interfaith sees the need, provides the infrastructure to meet the need, and sends an all call out to the amazing volunteers in this community to provide the ACTION to get things done. Schools, churches, community members and organizations, neighborhoods, families all working together to help those who need us. So many communities have people who are willing, but do not have the solid base that we have in Interfaith to efficiently and compassionately work together to make people's lives better. We are in debt to those who founded Interfaith and to those who continue to make it function. They are NEVER done looking for other ways to give a boost to those who need it. An amazing place that I am grateful for every day.

We are a business in the community IOCP serves and had no hesitation reaching out to IOCP's Employment Service to be connected with highly motivated individuals seeking employment. IOCP offers employers job fairs, opportunities to communicate job openings plus much more to connect their clients with businesses in need of employees. Urban Air Adventures values our partnership with IOCP!

Had a great experience volunteering with IOCP - Plymouth yesterday. Since living in Plymouth, MN for over 16 years now, I know the impact they have on our community. None of this could be done without the countless other volunteers who also put in there time and effort to keep this nonprofit standing. With the constantly stocked food shelf to the clothing/household donations, IOCP-Plymouth truly fits the needs of all people. I’m glad I could help make a difference in my community and I look forward to the next time I’m there.

I live in the community Interfaith serves and have volunteered in different roles for almost 10 years. Today, I have the joy of serving as the Board Chair and have a front row view of how Interfaith lives their mission – to strengthen our community by meeting basic needs and equipping individuals and families for ongoing stability. The team does this through our values of collaboration, inclusion, and integration. Guided by the above, the organization is transparent and effective. It is a great organization and everyday I’m amazed at the work they do in our community.

Interfaith is such an amazing organization. They truly care about their clients and I'm honored to be a volunteer there. So many families helped with so many services!

I live in the community that IOCP serves and have supported and volunteered at IOCP (presently as a volunteer board member) for over 20 years. IOCP's work in supporting individuals and families in need in our community is unmatched. IOCP not only provides immediate assistance but also works to provide a broad range of services to help individuals and families get past their current challenge and move forward positively into the future. I have always felt comfortable donating to IOCP and as a board member have seen first hand the transparency and safeguards that are in place to ensure donations are used as intended and go directly to meeting the need at hand.

I am a volunteer Board Member and have been extremely impressed with the entire organization. The entire organization from the ED, to each staff member, volunteer, and the Board all live the mission of igniting the power of community to build hopeful futures. I have seen first hand how tireless the staff work to execute on the mission. The organization continues to be fiscally responsible and transparent in the work they do, and I feel confident my donations (time and treasure) are being used effectively.

Interfaith Outreach in Plymouth MN is an amazing non profit that touches so many peoples lives, thank you for all you do!

I’m a volunteer and know that the work IOCP does is so important. I’ve seen it firsthand. From the food bank to housing support, early childhood programming — it’s clear they are making a difference when it comes to suburban poverty.

I choose to volunteer with this organization because of their mission to put clients first. This mindset differentiates this organization from others I have volunteered with in the past. They are continually optimizing their services in order to set people up for long term success! Their food shelf and resale shop is so nice, creating a great experience for all. I could go on and on, I very much appreciate this organization being in my community!!

IOCP is very inclusive, welcoming and professional with all staff, volunteers and families that are served. They work really hard to meet all the client's needs - housing, food, clothing, household goods, financial assistance, etc.

I've been volunteering there for many years and feel they utilize our time well. I know others who donate financially and they believe their donations are used very wisely. Great organization to support both financially and with your time!

When you look at the western suburbs of Minneapolis, at first glance, the communities appear quite affluent. That is true for SOME people, but it is not true for ALL people. IOCP connects the community and makes it stronger. For those in need, they provide food, housing, clothing, and services. For those with the ability to give and serve, they provide a high integrity partner for donations and volunteering. All those who live, work, learn, worship, and play in this community are better off for having IOCP.

I have been honored to support them for more than 20 years. I've done various things to help IOCP over the years, depending on the time I had available. Currently, I enjoy working in Resale SELECT. The volunteers frequently refer to the store as their "happy place", and the customers are always friendly and nice. I also donate to the food shelf, and I participate in "Adopt A Family" during the holidays. There are many fun and rewarding ways to support IOCP... all for a good cause!

I started volunteering here about three years ago when I retired. It came highly recommended by a friend who is a social worker. I had looked at other organizations that just did not seem to fit what I was looking for, or would be proud to be a part of. This organization checked off all the boxes and has continued to show me why I dedicate so many hours a month to help them in their mission. It does wonderful things for the community and I love the fact that it stays in our local area - where the need can surprise you. They are dedicated to inclusivity and treating everyone with respect. I have grown to love the staff, volunteers and clients. It has become an important part of my life and allows me to contribute in a more fullfillling way . I just dropped off my gift cards and some handmade blankets for the Holidays last week. If you are looking for a sense of community or just want to give back (financially or with time) please consider this great organization.

Sheila - Proud donor & volunteer

My daughters volunteered with IOCP for several years as part of the YES program when they were at Wayzata High School. It was a great way for them to get involved with our community, help people at the high school, and learn the importance of caring for those in need. It has been an important part of shaping who they are as young women. I recommend IOCP to anyone with kids looking for opportunities to be involved in the community and teach their kids the importance of giving back. Annette Fellows

Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners is a vibrant, caring place filled with people who want to make our community and our world a better place!

Interfaith Outreach is a high integrity organization delivering quality human services on a local level. I would highly encourage anyone who is interested to learn more.

I have been receiving help from Interfaith for 8 years on and off. Interfaith is a non-judgmental, safe, and respectful place to receive services no matter where you are in life. I highly suggest checking out what services they offer and call if you have any questions! Thank You Interfaith! -Cody

This is a wonderful organization serving the western suburbs of the Twin Cities (Minneapolis & St. Paul). Interfaith Outreach provides career services, family counseling, a food pantry and a resale store to its clients. The staff cares deeply about their community and their commitment to serving their clients is impressive.

Great non profit offering wrap around services. So helpful for clients in need.

This organization has been on my radar since moving to the area a few years ago. That it serves the needs of less fortunate people in an area known for its affluence really stood out to me, as did the fact that it welcomes volunteers and clients of all faiths. (I also love that they use the Resale Shop as a way to support their programs!)

I've been volunteering at Interfaith Outreach for over 25 years. I've been part of their Employment Committee, Operations Committee, Sleep Out (sleeping out with my family in all kinds of November weather), Board of Directors and am now part of their HR Committee. Why volunteer and contribute for over 25 years? Interfaith Outreach evolves to meet the many needs of families and also feels like a family to its volunteers. The organization recognizes there is poverty, even in more affluent areas, and works to stabilize food, housing and employment for those facing poverty challenges, in a very respectful supporting way. I've been especially impressed that as our community diversifies, so has the Interfaith team in their efforts to educate both their staff and the community about diversity, equity and inclusion. I'm proud to be a supporter! Beth

The range of services IOCP provides is truly stellar, helping at risk families survive, stabilize and thrive. Their respectful approach (which is the core of their mission), and the solid engagement of the wider community speaks highly of IOCP clients, leadership, staff and volunteers. IOCP helps not only its direct clients - it lifts the entire community ! Thx for being here ! Chris W

IOCP is a critical resource in our community. They are they go- to recommendation when people post on NextDoor for assistance. PreCovid I was a volunteer, and I can’t wait to get back to my role taking care of kids in a predominantly Somali apartment complex. They also do a great job with communications and fundraising. They really create a community across the work they do. Love IOCP!

I love everything about this non-profit. Their mission is truly lived by everyone on their talented and loyal team as well as their committed group of volunteers. We are so lucky to have such an amazing organization serving our neighbors - helping them go from surviving to thriving!

Interfaith Outreach Community Partners has been a strategic partner for our community over the last 40 and has helped families stabilize, strengthen and thrive. I have been involved over the last 10 years as a volunteer, chair of an event and a board member. I have seen firsthand how different areas of Interfaith has helped members of our community to get the help and support they need to get through challenging times. It serves as model for other communities.

This past year has been one like no other and IOCP has risen to meet the challenge. Leadership and staff continued their great work with creative solutions that met COVID guidelines and kept IOCP open to meet the increased need for services and assistance.

I am one of IOCP’s many volunteers and donors. Equally impressive to the work of staff and leadership was seeing the depth and breadth of this group of supporters rally to help IOCP pivot to meet challenges and continue to provide assistance and opportunities for clients.

IOCP is wonderful organization! I am thankful for its presence in the community; grateful to be a volunteer and supporter.

Interfaith Outreach is a charity serving those of need in our area. Our community has come together to support clients of Interfaith in many ways: volunteering, food donations, clothing donations, items for homes, housing help, job counseling, actual donations and many more ways. Interfaith definitely contributes to our community.

I had the good fortune to get involved with Interfaith just over 10 years ago, and I am so grateful to have been introduced to this wonderful organization. The leadership and staff are passionate, professional and strategically organized to maximize the contributions of their volunteers and donors.

They are forward-thinking with their community partnerships, both private and public, and have an outstanding reputation in the communities they serve as well as throughout the broader Twin Cities metro.

One of the things I admire most about this organization is their commitment to solicit feedback from and listen to the people they serve to ensure they are truly meeting the needs of the community.

I am the Executive Director of Bloom Early Learning & Child Care, a nonprofit in Plymouth that dedicates half our capacity to children from low-income families in our community. We were a founding partner of Interfaith's Caring for Kids program and continue to work alongside them as a quality provider of early childhood education and care. Lack of access to quality care is one of many challenges faced by families experiencing poverty. Interfaith Outreach meets the additional needs of our families for food, clothing, housing, and employment services. Interfaith Outreach is a leader among social service agencies responding to the crisis of suburban poverty. They base their services not only on best practices, but also on the input of the people they serve. They educate the community on issues related to poverty and rally volunteers and supporters to help their neighbors stabilize, strengthen and thrive.

Interfaith Outreach's mission is to create opportunities for all to thrive. They accomplish this mission in so many ways. They provide a safe, compassionate and respectful place for people in our community to seek assistance during challenging times. Interfaith focuses on key barriers that keep families in our community stuck...food, housing, child care and education, employment and connection to resources in our community. In addition to amazing services they also provide a place for the community to become engaged through community conversations and learning, volunteerism, donating goods or making a financial donation. I have been a volunteer with Interfaith for many years. I also had the opportunity to be part of the staff and witnessed the amazing work of the organization first hand. Interfaith Outreach is a gem in our community.

My wife and I have volunteered and supported IOCP for over 30 years. I recently joined the board of directors. We are very excited to be involved with IOCP because it is making a huge difference in the community. From activities such as education for pre-schoolers, job training, the food shelf, a resale shop and help to achieve better housing' our neighbors are getting a helping hand up. The very capable staff at IOCP is dedicated to improving the lives of the people we serve. IOCP is financially sound and is always seeking out new and better ways to serve our clients. Take a look at IOCP's annual report. It is an incredible organization!

Interfaith has been the barometer of need within our community for over 40 years. With careful planning/community input programs are created to serve the individual needs in our area. The families are at the center of everything Interfaith and everyone is of value.
Brenda

Interfaith outreach is an organization that provides assistance to families and individuals in need/crisis in our western metropolitan area. The population served is ethnically diverse and all are treated equally and compassionately, with respect and dignity. As a board member and volunteer I experience a sense of purpose and community. Interfaith functions in many ways like a large family. Warmth, integrity and encouragement are core elements.

Interfaith Outreach has been THE community "safety net" for decades! They are the example by which other organizations can judged when it comes to serving the least among us!

Greg

I have been involved as a volunteer and donor at Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners for over thirty years. I believe strongly that being a good citizen means being involved in the community in which I live. It is my responsibility to learn how my city, school district, faith community and community service organizations operate. This includes how it meets the needs of its residents, and in particular its residents that struggle to meet the most basic needs. My husband and I were so impressed with Interfaith's mission and the commitment of its staff and leaders that we involved our children at an early age and my husband became a board member. We believe strongly in knowing where our philanthropic dollars go and have established relationships at Interfaith that allow us to see first hand how those resources are used. We are impressed with the partnerships Interfaith has established and nurtured with local government, the two school districts served by its clients, local faith communities, and local corporations. We have celebrated the growth of the organization from its modest beginnings to the amazing facility it is today.

I have volunteered at IOCP for the past 9 years. I volunteer in their Employment Services (teaching typing and computer skills) because it prepares clients for getting jobs or better jobs so they can support their families. I volunteer at their Afterschool Club (assisting kids with homework) so that they are prepared for and set their sights on pursuing a higher education. I also assist in Spanish interpreting with Hispanic clients. I use this opportunity to stress to clients the importance of learning English, the importance of their kids staying in school, and the importance of a college degree for their kids.

Since I retired two years ago, I have spent much of my time volunteering for Interfaith Outreach in a variety of roles - including fundraising, Back-to-School, Holiday Gift Program, Employment Services, etc. There are many opportunities to bring your talents to serve at Interfaith Outreach.

There are 3 main reasons I love to volunteer my time and talents with Interfaith:
1. The People - The people who work for Interfaith are amazing! They are so kind, warmhearted and focused on their mission to help struggling families. The clients are diverse families looking not for a hand out, but rather a hand up. Community businesses and individuals are dedicated and generous with their support. And the volunteers are excited about the possibilities for these families and individuals,
2. The Passion - All involved with Interfaith have a passion for what they do, what they give, what they can accomplish.
3. The Purpose - For forty years, Interfaith Outreach has helped struggling families overcome barriers, believe in themselves and soar to new heights.
Please join us in serving our community!

Interfaith Outreach truly lives out its vision statement: to build a vibrant community where everyone counts and all sectors and systems work together for the good of all. "Everyone counts" is not just a nice phrase here. It is at the core of the leadership, the atmosphere, the programming and day-to-day interactions with staff, volunteers, donors and program participants. There are many nonprofits who address the immediate crisis and say goodbye to the individual or family. Here, supporters rest assured that their contributions of time, talent and money are building lasting change in the lives of their neighbors. Interfaith has anything but a "one and done" approach. I also respect how Interfaith catalyzes hope - for the community and for the people it walks alongside. It helps this community become a better version of itself.

Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners strives to make our community in the western Twin Cities suburbs the "best version of itself" by supporting families in need and helping them plan for a better future. Among many strengths, three features of Interfaith Outreach deserve special recognition. First, Interfaith Outreach inspires not only the families they serve but the community as a whole by providing respectful, effective services and by using powerful data-driven storytelling to share successes with the community. The community in turn provides generous financial donations, partnerships and contributions of time and energy through a multi-generational cadre of volunteers. Second, Interfaith Outreach works from a strategic plan that reflects a deep commitment to addressing the roots of inequities in our community and acknowledging the complexities of working with families experiencing job loss, homelessness, mental illness and other challenges. The service model and metrics that are tracked reflect best practices. Finally, Interfaith Outreach is a learning organization that continually assesses their impact and adjusts their course when needed to better serve families. It is an honor and privilege to serve on the Board of Interfaith Outreach.

Interfaith Outreach has an amazing impact on the clients and communities it serves. They maximize the value of every dollar donated with their staff expertise and operational efficiency. They further maximize their efficiency with their ability to attract and retain a large pool of talented and committed volunteers. I love their mission and track record of helping their clients move from crisis mode to stabilization to strengthening to ultimately thriving and self sufficiency.

I am so grateful to have joined Interfaith as a board member over two years ago. This is an outstanding organization with talented staff, committed volunteers and a caring board. The impact of the services offered at Interfaith are amazing as they help individuals in so many important areas...housing and employment just to name a few. I know Interfaith has helped families at a time that was a real low point; they have stayed with the family until they stabilize and ultimately thrive. I'm very proud of the work done by this wonderful non -profit, and know Interfaith makes a significant difference in the community and in the lives of individuals and families that they serve.

Our family has been involved with Interfaith Outreach for over a decade. They provide such great value to members of our broad community. Individuals may connect with Interfaith Outreach for a short-term challenge and their unique, holistic approach surrounds them with resources to guide them towards long-term self-sufficiency. I have had the opportunity to support the organization through multiple volunteer and fund-raising efforts. LaDonna Hoy's compassionate leadership for the community shines through each employee, volunteer, community partner and family they serve. I also applaud them for their attentive and responsible stewardship.

I love that this organization is the safety net in our community, to catch those that are struggling with food, housing, transportation , childcare, and employment. The staff and volunteers genuinely care about every person that walks in the door. At that same time, i'm grateful that they are good stewards of the financial gifts they receive, stretching every dollar received to its max.

Mary

I've worked with Interfaith Outreach since high-school (over 21 years!). They are an incredible organization and consistently make a positive impact to those in our community. I am always impressed by the staff's professionalism, friendliness, and care they approach each person, whether it is a board member or a client. Each person is treated with respect, equality and empathy. Thank you Interfaith for all you have done for this community!

Interfaith Outreach is focused on helping families in need, not just with whatever the urgent need is (presenting issue), but the staff and volunteers build relationships and try to understand how the need arose. The organization understands that employment, education, transportation, child care, housing, and hunger are all interconnected and need to be in alignment, and that families need a stable foundation across these areas. The organization is positioned to help across these areas in order to help families get back on their feet and become self-sufficient!

IOCP is a truly inspiring organization that has been helping communities in need for over 40 years. Their work to help move struggling families to a thriving status is apparent in its many parts including the Resale shop, food shelf, after school help, career advice and much more. The most impactful signals to its impact are the families who continue to come back and then in turn help others.... I love being part of this organization and furthering its mission.

Kate

Over the years I have watched the steady, thoughtful growth of this organization provide resources for local families in need. As they grew, community leaders with specialized skills joined the cause and Interfaith was able to increase its services even more through government, education and corporate collaborations.

Once, I had a friend in need but who hesitated to reach out. When I accompanied her to Interfaith, a case manager met with her and made a plan for assistance - both on-the-spot help as well as longer term support. My friend was so grateful and so relieved that there was someone who could help get things sorted out and provide hope amid her difficult situation.

As a volunteer today in one of the community outreach programs, I witness the caring and compassion by the staff at Interfaith. It is part of the culture to treat client families with respect and advocacy. I see how they value volunteers by their tag line: "Igniting the Power of Community". Their unique process of integrating volunteers provides the manpower to make many of the special services for local client families become reality.

Interfaith Outreach is a gem in the community and a model for us all. I am proud to live in the community that has such a positive force for good which is driven by Interfaith as they continue to "Ignite the Power of Community".

With gratitude,
Cathy Roth

Interfaith Outreach interacts with the community in a powerful way by digging deeply into the barriers faced by families and by providing informed, sustainable, and creative long-term solutions. A small barrier such as a car repair bill can cause a cascade of life-changing events such as job loss. Interfaith Outreach supports people in small and big ways that give them long-term stability and success. This organization supports local schools by providing those wrap-around services so that teachers can teach and children can concentrate on classwork and experience academic growth. I also appreciate how Interfaith Outreach connects with experts in the field, whether in the area of early childhood development or opportunity gaps to inform its practice. Friends and supporters of Interfaith Outreach are grateful for the leadership of LaDonna Hoy who teaches the community not only to see or to talk about suburban poverty but to do something about it.

I really enjoy getting to know others in our community and working toward a common goal of making it a better place for all to love. From fundraising to holiday events and early education opportunities, Interfaith Outreach is working to provide services and opportunities for our neighbors to thrive. I enjoying helping out and supporting our community.

I have been actively volunteering with Interfaith Outreach for the last seven years and have really enjoyed the opportunity to work with this organization which dedicates such resources to support and change in our community. As a volunteer I so appreciate the flexibility and variety of engagement opportunities. I have been able to be involved in so many different aspects of their work because of this. As a community member I am so thankful that they are a part of our community and for the needs that they fill.

As a volunteer for Interfaith Outreach for several years, I hear and see some of the impact they make in the community: the senior grateful for a ride to a medical appointment, the mom loading food shelf groceries into a cart, the job training coach giving encouragement to a client, the job seeker picking out clothes from ReSale Shop to wear to an interview, the front desk volunteers responding to appeals for information/help, the after-school and summer camp programs supporting kids, and the commitment of staff and volunteers eager to make life better for others with needs. When you directly hear/see this first hand, it makes one grateful to be a part of the Interfaith Outreach team.

I’ve been volunteering at IOCP for many years. The more I see, the more impressed I am with how the organization helps those in need. IOCP has programs to help adults, children, and families. Everyone living in their service area who needs help is welcomed, no one is turned away. IOCP offers many volunteer opportunities. You can volunteer for special events or on a scheduled basis. Their staff are amazing to work with. I feel extremely appreciated as a volunteer every time I'm there. I would highly recommend IOCP for anyone looking to volunteer. It is a wonderful organization doing important work.

I have been involved with Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners for roughly 12 years and I love giving my time and money to such an amazing non profit! Not only do they help the community that I live in, they also help surrounding communities where people have a perception that they don't need help. There is so many amazing ways that you can be involved and what I love most is that you can help on your own at a time and what is convenient for you. If you are looking to get involved in a nonprofit, I would highly recommend checking out Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners!

Interfaith Outreach has been a blessing for our community. Not only does it provide essential services for individuals and families in need but also wonderful opportunities for people to volunteer. As someone who has been volunteering at IOCP for the past several years, I am continually blown away by the warmth and kindness of the staff. They go out of their way to make sure that everyone feels part of the team. And they are extremely sensitive to their volunteers' needs, helping them discover and succeed at the ideal way to serve. I'm thankful they exist as they fill an important role in providing support, purpose, and meaning to everyone in our community.

It has been a real privilege for me to live in a community where we have an organization that is meeting the individual challenges of our citizenry, partnering with churches, schools and businesses, to solve problems. I have supported Interfaith since its beginnings because they understand how to meet and overcome barriers, caring gently and thoroughly, with each individual or family. I know all funds contributed will be used well and all of us benefit when goodness prevails! Babs Koch

I have a veteran teacher of 31 years. In our schools, every day, I see the positive difference Interfaith Outreach makes in the lives of economically disadvantages families. Rent assists allow families to stay in place resulting in continuity of relationships and improved learning. The cars they help fix each month keep adult consistently going to work. More children have opportunities for learning during out of school time as a result of the staff at Interfaith connecting our youth to tutors, Community Education scholarships and other enrichment activities. As suburban poverty increases, the work of Interfaith Outreach has never been more important!

I was looking for an opportunity to give back to my community (in my own backyard if you will), as volunteerism is part of the culture where I work (Wells Fargo). I found out about Interfaith Outreach from our Community Relations Director at work. I discovered a rich history of involvement by Wells Fargo with Interfaith Outreach. Interfaith Outreach’s mission and values matched up well with my own values and beliefs, and I have found my involvement with Interfaith Outreach to be very satisfying and rewarding. I have a finance background and was able to lend my time and leverage my finance talents to the organization through my involvement with the Finance Committee. I have witnessed first-hand the incredible growth and meaningful community impacts of Interfaith Outreach. I feel both proud and humble to be involved with Interfaith Outreach.

Over the period of my involvement (and building on the efforts of previous treasurers and working in concert with our very capable Finance Director), we have achieved audit opinions at the highest level of assurance, strengthened internal controls (with no material weaknesses noted by our auditors), and fully funded our reserves. We have expanded our financial planning beyond an annual budget to a multi-year financial sustainability planning process. Helping play a part of this success as a “financial steward” of the organization has been very rewarding. We all have talents. We all have a sense of corporate responsibility, exposure to mission and values, the importance of being customer-centric, and often involved in strategy development and execution. All these attributes carry over very well to the non-profit sector, and can be leveraged to help a nonprofit evolve, grow, address governance needs and achieve sustainability.

Interfaith Outreach is so unique. We offer such a wide spectrum of needed and necessary services to our program participants and our communities, embodied in six impact areas: family support, food, housing and neighborhoods, education and youth, employment and transportation. We partner well with churches, school districts, government agencies and volunteers (nearly 2,000 volunteers providing over 64,000 hours of volunteer service) to deliver these services in a highly effective manner.

Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners engages the heart and will of our community to respond to emergency needs and create opportunities for all to thrive. Interfaith Outreach works directly with individuals and families to meet their basic needs with access to food, housing, healthcare, childcare, education, employment, transportation and other assistance. Through supportive services, organized and effective volunteer experiences as well as impactful giving, Interfaith Outreach provides community members with meaningful ways to be involved in the strengthening our community together.

I have known about this organization for more than 15 years. I was introduced to their amazing work when my past employer partnered with them to develop and build affordable town homes with on site services in Plymouth. Since that day, the staff and volunteer leadership of Interfaith Outreach have continued to impress and deliver. The organization is nimble, responding to pressing community needs and strategic, partnering with hundreds of faith communities and businesses to work effectively. Addressing suburban poverty and all the barriers people experience is a major challenge all around the country. I am grateful we have Interfaith right here in our back yard.

I have volunteered at Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners for five years. It has been a wonderful experience for me. I have enjoyed working with the other volunteers and the great staff. The leadership is outstanding.

Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners is one of those organizations that makes our community a better place to live for all of us. Families in need are treated with compassion and respect --- and volunteers are given an opportunity to find our better selves through service to others.
Interfaith Outreach has recently garnered the energy of the community through its Great Expectations initiative. Hundreds of people are now engaged with Interfaith Outreach and the local school districts to make sure that every child, no matter their economic status or cultural background, has the educational support she/he needs to be successful from cradle to career. Only an organization with the track record and trusted reputation of Interfaith Outreach could coalesce an entire community around such an ambitious goal.

Interfaith Outreach does amazing work. I have been volunteering there for several years and am still consistently learning about the breadth and depth of the help they provide to the community. The collaboration with public schools, government entities, faith organizations, local businesses and community volunteers is most impressive. The staff and leadership is amazingly dedicated and do a great job.

Interfaith does amazing work in the local community. Volunteering here as proven to be one of the most incredible opportunities I've had. As a volunteer my insights and skills are respected by staff, allowing me to feel a valued member of the team.

I have been on many boards and have supported many nonprofits over the past 25 years. Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners is now the one nonprofit where I choose to spend all of my volunteer time and where I direct the majority of my charitable donations. Founded in 1979, Interfaith Outreach has an impeccable reputation. They have a 38 year history of supporting families in the western suburbans by responding to emergency needs and creating opportunities for families to thrive. Interfaith Outreach has a holistic approach to helping families. Their Impact areas include education/youth, housing and neighborhoods, transportation, employment, food and family support. We currently serve over 2,000 families with over 2,000 volunteers. Our current budget is $8.7 million, with .85 of each dollar directly supporting families. Our tagline is "Igniting the Power of Community." We do just that.

IOCP is an organization that excels in community engagement (at all levels), partnerships (w/ local faith, diverse community leaders, government, schools, businesses)), efficacy and most importantly - in sustainable impacts which makes a real and meaningful difference in people’s lives. The IOCP model is based on maximizing connections and resources with everyone working together - and as a result - everyone learns and commitment to strong community and opportunity for everyone becomes even stronger. And - as a donor, I see sustainable outcomes ..... both in the measurable outcomes IOCP tracks and the comments and engagement of staff, volunteers and clients w/ services delivered. IOCP helps families move from crisis to stability - often to the point where clients return as volunteers and IOCP supporters themselves. I am blessed to be associated with and participate in these efforts !

Interfaith Outreach is an outstanding organization with deep roots supporting this community since 1979. Through partnerships with businesses, schools, churches, and over 2000 volunteers, they are positively impacting 2,005 families. Interfaith Outreach has an amazing, hard working, caring staff who together with volunteers supports families in key areas ranging from education, employment, housing, family support programs to food and clothing. As a Board member and volunteer, I am able to use my skills and put my faith into action to help support this organization and our community. Every time I volunteer, I leave feeling that I helped make a difference in the life of another person and it makes it a great day!

I started with IOCP in 2014. I was assigned the task for being a liason from our church, Holy Name. After touring the complex, I decided to volunteer so I could" walk the talk". What a marvelous time I've had with a wonderful organization! I'm volunteering in the re-sale store, because of my background in sales. Also, the" Return To Work" program, which involves helping folks get back into the workplace with interview clothes, and a weeks supply of appropriate clothing for their position. I never imagined that there was a place, where people of all walks of life can get the support they so desperately need, in a safe , caring and loving environment. There are hundreds of volunteers, in all the areas of IOCP and they are giving back of their time, treasure and talent.

I have had the pleasure of volunteering with Interfaith Outreach for about 8 years. I choose to be a part of this fabulous organization because of the leadership, the wonderful volunteers and, especially, the holistic, strategic and responsible approach taken with building a community where everyone counts. Interfaith is about helping community members maintain their self esteem while working through their bumps in life. Partnered with other dynamic organizations in the community, Interfaith helps clients become productive members of the community again. That's key!

Volunteering at Interfaith Outreach fills my heart. I get SO much more than I give! I have developed life-long friendships with team members and volunteers and know that I am making a meaningful difference in the lives of those that we have the opportunity to impact. Interfaith has changed my life in so many ways. What a gift!

Interfaith Outreach truly does strive "To build a vibrant community where everyone counts and all sectors and systems work together for the good of all."

Interfaith Outreach is filled with caring, dedicated volunteers and staff who want to make sure everyone in our community has the opportunity to thrive. From the food shelf, resale shop, employment services, housing and education assistance they are there to help families in crisis find stability and move to self sufficiency and success. I've been a volunteer there for four years and have seen the incredible impact Interfaith Outreach has on the lives of those in need to feel valued, respected and empowered to succeed. It's a great place to volunteer and really make a difference in the life of your neighbors.

IOCP has been in our community for as long as I have been alive. I participated in their food drives, holiday gift programs and sleep outs as a child. I have grown up to be able to support these efforts along with some of their other programming including employment services as an adult. Poverty, food insecurity, housing and employment instability can often be "invisible" in the NW suburbs. IOCP works to not only provide visibility, but opportunity to connect those in need with those who can help across a broad spectrum or programs. I am proud to volunteer with them, I am proud to be a part of the community that they are a part of.

Interfaith Outreach has the passion, people and commitment to make a difference in the community. As a volunteer and Board Member I see both the strategy, plan and infrastructure as well as see the wonderful staff and volunteers who make a difference in the lives of those in need on a daily basis. Everyone is valued! It's truly a special place.

I've volunteered with IOCP in a variety of ways. I continue to be amazed at the powerful impact this wonderful organization has on our local community. I have witnessed first hand the amazing services and educational opportunities provided to those in need, and I am so impressed with the professional, respectful and constructive manner in which they deal with all of their clients. The staff and board are wonderful stewards of the donations they receive - ensuring that the organization is run in the most efficient manner so that the maximum benefit is bestowed on those in need. I am also impressed at how easy they make it for community members to get involved - from one-time volunteer opportunities to long-term assignments.

Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners is one of the most highly respected non-profit organizations in Minnesota. The organization has a very focused mission and very strong community partners who work collaboratively with the organization to achieve that mission. The organization has an outstanding staff and over 1,500 volunteers who commit themselves to delivering high quality services to the clients of the organization. I am proud to be associated with such a top notch organization that brings tremendous value to the community.

I have worked in a few different roles within IOCP and in each new role and experience I get to see how big the impact is that IOCP has on the community. My favorite experience was working at the Christmas gift exchange, helping families pick up their Christmas presents. The reason this experience was my favorite is because I was able to see first hand the joy in these parents and children's eyes when they received their gifts. It's such an amazing program that IOCP puts together and I can't wait to help out again next year! - Erin Cella

I've volunteered in several capacities at Interfaith Outreach over the last 8+ years. Through that, I have seen their operation from the ground up all the way to the Board of Directors. The vision, integrity, relationships and compassion that I see EVERY day is truly remarkable. What I find most impressive about Interfaith Outreach is not only the organization's ability to deliver amazing support to our community but to manage this non-profit as a successful small business. A small business that is able to sustain itself over time because of proper leadership, planning and budgeting. A small business that employs a wonderful group of case managers and leaders - and a small business that is truly part of their community.

Interfaith Outreach is truly a special nonprofit organization. It goes far beyond providing emergency assistance to well over two thousand families in need every year, helping them move from crisis to a more sustainable life situation. It actually channels the power of our entire community to help each other to create opportunities for everyone to thrive. Key partner organizations make such a difference in the impact made, as do the affiliated faith groups and congregations. Interfaith outreach brings us all together to make our community stronger. Our next frontier is education and this organization isn't shying away from that great challenge. Kudos to Interfaith Outreach - a great nonprofit!

This organization is creating opportunities for people to thrive every day. The volunteers who put in thousands of hours each year actually do work that equals 30 full time staff! WOW! Thanks to the volunteers who make this organization what it is. I so enjoy being a part of this great team.

As a pastor in the community, I get a chance to see IOCP work from a variety of different perspectives. I am continually impressed by their professionalism and compassion. They not only respond to crises but help individuals and families work toward sustainable independence. The staff is professional and effective, and stewards their resources with wisdom and discernment. They are also collaborative partners and participants in the life of the broader community.

IOCP is making a very positive impact in our community. In addition to meeting emergency needs of less fortunate people in our area, my observation is that IOCP is helping many to become independent and stable. I see the staff of IOCP as competent and highly efficient, making good use of every dollar contributed. I believe IOCP is a great organization to give time and skills in a volunteer capacity. IOCP helps the whole community to be engaged in helping others and celebrating successes. Thank goodness there is an IOCP in our community.

Interfaith Outreach And Community Partners serves a critical need in our community - every year, but particularly now when the need is so great. The Sleep Out event this year was tremendous, surpassing the amount of donations raised last year, which is a testimony to the professional and ethical way that this organization is run. Truly giving back and helping those in our community every year!

The event, held at a park, was very well organized, with plenty of staff on hand and volunteers to explain each activity and cheer them on. I had as much fun as the kids, and it was particularly great to know that these kids were enjoying a safe, healthy afternoon. Two boys who were doing the 3-legged race really concentrated and worked as a team. It was wonderful to see how proud they were to win, but also how much fun all the teams had, just participating. I would definitely do this again, and would like to find other ways to help out with the CONECT program.

IOCP is an organization with a very clear mission, fabulous leadership and a history of making a huge impact on the communities they serve. Being a Board member of IOCP has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me. IOCP makes a difference in the lives of everyone they touch -- clients, volunteers, employees, Board members and the general community.