MAD DADS 20th Anniversary Fundraiser Concert

Minneapolis MAD DADS’ fundraising concert commemorates its 20-year anniversary with an evening to remember. The event will feature live music by Grammy Award-winning artist from Sounds of Blackness, Jamecia Bennett and Friends, with host Debonaire and Auction Host Thomisina Petrus. Come enjoy a special performance by Jamecia Bennet, as well as performances by Wenzo Ashby, Jazz Artist Jana Nyberg, Marie Chante The Poet, National Recording Artists James Grear & Co, as well as green carpet photos, appetizers and cocktails. The event will to provide general operating support to the organization as they embark on strategic planning while continuing to provide services to the community.

Listen to an MPR interview with V.J. Smith, founder of the MInneapolis chapter.

Since 1998, the Minneapolis MAD DADS has led community outreach, education, job development and trauma services in partnership with the City of Minneapolis and Hennepin County in invaluable ways. These partnerships and others have procured the following outcomes:

• More than 1,000,000 hours in the streets working to reduce violence in our communities.
• In partnership with Metro Transit have been protecting riders on the city transit system, promoting ridership and creating safe environment for daily commutes.
• Have responded to over 600 shootings as a first responder for families and communities implementing vigils and peace keeping in neighborhoods across the region.
• Provided life-skills coaching to over 88,000 inmates at the Hennepin County Detention Center during and other correctional facilities, during VJ Smith’s weekly visits.

As MAD DADS enters its 20th year of service, the organization continues to combat drugs, gangs and violence, working to restore our beloved communities and deterring youth from a life of violence and destruction.