The 2025 Sabathani Block Party: What a Day!
Community at the Heart
What a phenomenal celebration! Together with our neighborhood partner, Seward Community Co-op, we marked the 10th anniversary of their Friendship Store—right across the street from Sabathani—with a day full of music, dancing, connection, and joy. Plus, more than two dozen local small businesses and resource organizations joined us, sharing goods, services, and support.
Check out the amazing photos below to see the energy of the day in action, and here are some highlights:
- Performers: Muja, Lewiee Blaze with DJ Mickey Breeze, Orikal Uno, T LaShawn, Frank Sentwali & his daughter Judah Zoe, and iLLism closing out the day. Plus, Harris Parks Line Dance, a bounce house, and plenty of kids’ games kept the energy high.
- Backpack Giveaway – thanks to United Way – was a huge hit, helping South Minneapolis families get ready for the school year. Big thanks to our Family Resources team, led by Sherri Green, for making it happen.
- Raffle prizes: Minnesota State Fair family ticket packs, generously donated by Monique Linder.
- A Crazy Fun Dance-off: Led by CEO Scott Redd – complete with gift card prizes!
Heart of Sabathani Awards
We honored those living out the mission and values of Sabathani, fostering a vibrant and thriving South Minneapolis community:
- Community Partner: Seward Friendship Co-op
- Board Member: Beverly Franklin
- Community Leader: Andrea Jenkins
- Community Member: Rossie Pierce
- Senior: Beverly Price
- Volunteer: Janie Randall
Staff Awards:
- Housing Team: Billy Brownlee
- Wellness Team: Joyce Mayes
- Maintenance/Operations: Rafael Urgiles
- Food Distribution: Gregory Perry
- Social Services: Natisha Smith
- Violence Interrupters: Uledus Roseman
Rain or Shine, We Showed Up
Even with the rain, the community came together – dancing, laughing, connecting. In our connections, in our joy, there is hope. And we left the day feeling deeply hopeful.
Thank you to Seward Community Co-op for being a steadfast partner to Sabathani and our neighborhood. Together, we’ll keep working for justice, peace, and access to nourishing resources for all.
A heartfelt thanks as well to the many staff and volunteers whose hard work – both in planning and on the day of the event – made the celebration possible. We truly couldn’t have done it without you!
Here’s to summertime, community, and the joy of being together!
Enjoy this photo slideshow! (Credit to Chris Holden of Holden Photos)
