MAD DADS

Founded in 1998, MAD DADS of Minneapolis is a local chapter of MAD DADS, Inc. (Men Against Destruction, Defending Against Drugs and Social Disorder) serving economically depressed and socially challenged neighborhoods in South Minneapolis, North Minneapolis and the northern suburb of Brooklyn Center.

MAD DADS’ efforts are centered on the belief that we must engage and empower the citizens of these troubled neighborhoods to bring about true change and positive outcomes for all members of the community. In cooperation with other service providers, MAD DADS reaches out to youth and men and women who are engaging in destructive and unproductive behaviors and works to reconnect them to their families and to the greater supportive community. MAD DADS reaches those most in need through four main program areas: Crime Prevention, Youth Development, Men’s Empowerment and Community Building. Our programming participants are predominantly people of color and are at or below poverty: 78% African American, 8% African, 5% Hispanic, 2% White, 2% American Indian/Alaskan and 5% non-reporting.

MAD DADS is rebuilding community by providing a connection to services, support and security for the families and victims of drug and gang violence and other related crimes. Our organization is committed to changing the direction of individuals, with a special focus on in-crisis men, through positive interactions, role modeling and support from MAD DADS. Our outreach teams link individuals and families to resources available to overcome barriers (social and economic) that prevent members of our community from positively contributing to their personal safety and stability, their families and their community.

MAD DADS formation and focus grew out of a need to stop the cycle of poverty, violence and crime. By connecting the structures of public systems and service providers to the individuals and neighborhoods we serve, we encourage community rebuilding one individual at a time.

In 2011, the MAD DADS of Minneapolis outreach team worked over 20,000 hours reaching out to individuals to create positive change in troubled neighborhoods in the Twin Cities area.