As a hub for our nonprofit community and a catalyst for philanthropy, we want to inform you of some of the great work happening behind the scenes. To make that happen, we’re revamping our monthly newsletter to send you updates from the Foundation and inspiring stories from the Eden Prairie community.
You can read our newsletters here on our blog, or better yet, subscribe to our emails and get them delivered to your inbox. We also offer a convenient PDF version of our newsletters.
For over 40 years, EPCF has been a place of connection, collaboration, and charitable work and we look forward to you joining us as we continue making Eden Prairie a great place to live and work!
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Events
Save the date for our 45th Annual EP Gives Gala coming up on May 1, 2025! This amazing event features food & drinks, a live & silent auction, our popular wine pull, and more. Most importantly, EP Gives is your chance to hear some amazing stories about the people EPCF has helped! Buy your tickets today on our event website.
Community Spotlight: Onward Eden Prairie
One of the main goals of EPCF is to serve as a hub for nonprofits in Eden Prairie. Part of that is maintaining a directory of all the groups that serve our community. While this directory is a valuable tool for anyone looking for information on local nonprofits, it doesn’t tell the full story of the great work these groups are doing in Eden Prairie.
About Onward Eden Prairie
Today we’re sharing a little more about one of our nonprofit partners, Onward Eden Prairie. Onward provides critical transitional housing and support for young adults aged 18–24 experiencing homelessness or housing instability. It’s the only site-based program of its kind in Eden Prairie.
They offer safe housing, expert case management, and a supportive community to help local young people achieve stability and independence. The Eden Prairie Community Foundation was among a group of local organizations who helped them get their start.
Mark Weber and Deb Garvey share information at the Onward Open House event
The Impact of Safe and Stable Housing
A recent highlight from Onward is the inspiring story of Asha*, a young woman who transitioned from homelessness to stability through their program. After being forced to leave her family home at 18, Asha connected with Onward just days after her birthday.
During her time at Onward, she thrived: graduating high school, securing a job she loves at a childcare center, and building close friendships with other residents. Onward gave Asha a safe and supportive space to prioritize her health, learn essential life skills, and work toward her goals.
Volunteers Bev and Ann spread holiday cheer to Onward residents
With Onward’s guidance, Asha saved money, developed financial literacy skills, and prepared to transition into independent living. In early January, she moved into her own apartment, excited and ready to begin this new chapter in her life.
Volunteers help an Onward graduate move into a new apartment
Asha’s journey highlights how Onward provides more than housing. They offer a solid foundation for young adults to achieve independence and success. The need for Onward’s services remains critical. In 2024 alone, they received 74 referrals for just three available openings, demonstrating the urgent demand for supportive and affordable housing for young adults in our community.
Looking ahead, Onward plans to expand their aftercare services. They’re also exploring options to grow a transitional housing program. Onward’s goal is to help more youth get the resources and support they need to build stable and successful lives.
You can learn more about Onward’s mission on their website, www.onwardep.org.
*Name changed to protect client anonymity.