About Us

Our Founder

Fatoun Ali, Founder & Executive Director

Through the Somali Youth and Family Development Center (SOMFAM), the Somali community here in Minneapolis is committed to meeting the challenges we face with real solutions in the areas of ACCESS to resources, EMPOWERMENT for men, women, and children through education and support, improving our HEALTH by learning to cook, exercise, find inner strength and peace, and EDUCATION in all areas we identify. SOMFAM has welcomed and served thousands of men, women, and children over the past 12 years, and 2022 was a year of enormous growth and development for us. Thanks to our funding partners, volunteers, and partners, we are offering more programs than ever and strengthening our relationships within our community and with many other Minneapolis resources. 2023 promises to be another important year for our organization. Our goals include establishing a formal, paid staff and a volunteer infrastructure that will allow us to track our services and make data-based decisions, increase our funding, and expand our services. Also, we are setting up an additional physical space for activities that will allow us to connect and grow together. We look forward to growing together this year, and we are grateful to all of you for your support and engagement!

Our Vision

To nurture and build a vibrant, healthy and prosperous Somali community in Minnesota through multi-level engagement with families and youth.

Our Mission

To empower Somali youth and families to grow stronger and healthier through youth mentoring, family education, and connections with community resources.

If you have any questions, please feel free to let us know.