Netroots Nation is coming to Minneapolis this week, less than a month after deadly tornadoes destroyed many homes and property in North Minneapolis.

In recognition of this difficult natural disaster, we're helping to raise some money for tornado cleanup and recovery. The very well respected Minneapolis Foundation has established the Minnesota Helps: North Minneapolis Recovery Fund:

The Minneapolis Foundation, Greater Twin Cities United Way, and GiveMN.org launched the Minnesota Helps - North Minneapolis Recovery Fund on Monday, May 23. The fund was created to support the immediate and long-term needs of individuals, families, nonprofits and businesses impacted by the devastating tornado and storm that hit North Minneapolis on May 22, 2011.

The road to recovery for the North Minneapolis communities will be a long one. The tornado wiped out at least 35 homes, damaged more than 1,800 properties, and caused at least $166 million in damages. In addition to support for the immediate needs of residents, resources are needed to support the community's rebuilding efforts over the long run to help North Minneapolis come back as an even stronger, more vibrant community. Contributions to the Fund will be pooled and distributed to support those most affected by this tragedy, both immediately and in the coming months.

For more information check out this one-pager from Minneapolis Foundation (PDF): http://www.minneapolisfoundation.org/Libraries/Documents_for_Website/MN-Helps_NorthMpls060911.sflb.ashx