African Families Development Network

The African Families Development Network (AFDN) is a community-based group that provides education and support to families and youth in MPLS

The African Families Development Center (AFDN) was established on July 17, 2008 by parents and  educators within the African community in Minnesota to respond to the needs of African refugees and immigrants. The people behind the birth of AFDN intimately understand the challenges African refugees and immigrants face when becoming a Minnesotan. They recognize that, although every story of moving to the United States is different, there is a mutual need for assisting the population as they integrate themselves into a community that is totally different from their homeland.

As a community-based group, AFDN is focused on connecting African refugees and immigrants with the resources they need within the community. It specifically works within the community through referrals for services, home ownership education, and family and youth focused counseling and after-school programs. This is being done with thorough understanding of and sensitivity to their language and cultural and institutional differences. All these efforts are expected to help the population navigate and integrate with the complex government, business,  education, and social institutions of the United States as their new home country.

AFDN is committed to its mission assist  every African immigrant family in their economic, social, and educational development, and health care needs, and to promote the well being of African communities. It envisions to become the leading community-based resource that provides African immigrants and refugees with information on all services and support in their transition to living and working in the United States.

In November 2009, AFDN obtained its 501 (c)  (3) status, which then further demonstrates the dedication of the group to be of service to the African community.