|
This is my final newsletter of the year. I can’t believe how fast time has gone by. Within this last year I have had incredible opportunities to meet with residents, participate in ribbon cuttings, attend community events, participate on committees internally and externally outside of Ramsey County with community residents and community-based organizations. I’ve had the opportunity to lead on workforce development and see the incredible work Ramsey County is doing to engage youth (16-30) in the workforce without hesitation, removing barriers and creating opportunities. I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me and appreciate the valuable input received from the community on issues central to building better lives for everyone.
December happens to be one of my favorite months of the year. It is a month filled with diverse celebrations, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures worldwide. From Christmas and Hanukkah to Diwali and Kwanzaa, each festivity brings its unique traditions, uniting communities in joy and gratitude. It's heartwarming to appreciate the diversity of celebrations and acknowledge the shared spirit of love, peace, and goodwill among people of various ethnic backgrounds during this festive season. I also recognize for many individuals and families this time of the year can be tough, stressful, and lonely. So, let’s remember to greet each other, maybe volunteer at a shelter, show up for someone else, and/or share a meal with a stranger and bring joy to someone.
I extend my heartfelt holiday wishes to all residents. May this season bring families and friends together and may we foster a sense of community and joy. Your support has made this year memorable, and I look forward to continued collaboration for the betterment of our district in the coming year. Wishing you all a season filled with warmth and cheer.
Rena
County Board Workshops
Most weeks, our County Board meets to discuss specific policy issues and receive updates from County Departments and Service Teams in our Board Workshops.
Workshops and discussions are held on Tuesdays and are open to the public. These take place at the Saint Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse in Suite 220 (2nd floor). You can find the schedule for all upcoming board meetings, workshops, and discussions sessions below.
Recent workshops include: look up all of workshops and place here:
You can access video recordings of the meetings as well as the materials shared by clicking here.
You can watch upcoming workshops live by clicking here.
Reflecting on the challenging times we faced during the Covid-19 pandemic evokes a mix of emotions—pride, resilience, and gratitude. As Ramsey County commissioners and leadership, witnessing the unwavering cooperation and resilience of our community has been truly inspiring. The journey through the pandemic required us to come together in unprecedented ways, transcending differences and uniting for a common cause.
In the face of adversity, our community showcased a remarkable spirit of solidarity. The proclamation we present to all of Ramsey County is not just a piece of paper; it is a testament to the strength we found within ourselves and each other. It symbolizes the countless acts of kindness, the sacrifices made, and the collective determination to overcome unprecedented challenges. As we share this proclamation, let it stand as a reminder of our shared journey and the indomitable spirit that defines Ramsey County. Together, we faced adversity with resilience, and through cooperation, we emerged stronger than ever before.
View as a webpage
*Click on above for more details & pics....
It was with great pride that I shared a recent roundtable discussion where Ramsey County hosted and actively engaged in dialogue with Senior Advisor to the President, Tom Perez. The focus of this impactful conversation revolved around Ramsey County's innovative youth initiatives designed to pave career pathways and create opportunities for our young community members. A central theme of the discussion was the vital importance of amplifying the voices of our youth.
Our commitment to providing platforms for the younger generation to express themselves and actively shape their futures garnered national recognition. This recognition is a reflection of collective efforts and is a testament to the collaborative dedication of our community in fostering an environment where every young person's voice is heard and valued. Together, we celebrate this acknowledgment as a symbol of our shared commitment to empowering the youth of Ramsey County.
 |
Engaging in the "Truth in Taxation" public hearing alongside my fellow commissioners was a valuable opportunity to foster transparency and open communication within our community. As stewards of the community's resources, we took the time to provide residents with a comprehensive 10-year historical overview of the levy, emphasizing its impact on our local services and infrastructure. It was crucial for us to present a clear and detailed account, allowing residents to understand the decisions behind the levy and its implications for the community's well-being.
Congratulations to all the employer who committed to the Inclusive Employer Cohort.
We need employers to lead, in ensuring we are continuing to create places where all employees can thrive. Being an inclusive employer is not only good for our diverse residents and job seekers but is great for our economic competitiveness. It also makes good business sense.
At a time when there are labor and talent shortages, these are the types of efforts that support businesses. Our community’s diversity is an asset. I was delighted to see employer commitment to completing this program.
And, thank you to the Center for Economic Inclusion for their partnership in delivering impactful content to program employer participants.
As an advocate and supporter of literacy in our neighborhood schools I was excited to here about this event. Saint Paul Promise Neighborhood unveiled another approach to promoting literacy among students.
I had the honor of attending the grand opening event, in collaboration with Saint Paul Public Schools, Wilder Foundation, African American Babies Coalition & Projects and Planting People Growing Justice; community was also invited to join the festivities and witness the introduction of the unique Book Vending Machine at Maxfield Elementary.
This initiative is set to change the way students discover their next favorite book. The Book Vending Machine will not only debut at Maxfield Elementary but will also strategically roll out in Benjamin E. Mays Elementary and other locations throughout the school year, offering students the opportunity to embark on new literary adventures.
This endeavor aligns with Saint Paul Public Schools' broader commitment to promoting literacy during the academic year. The recently announced SPPS Reads initiative aims to enhance literacy instruction using the Science of Reading practices across all elementary schools. SPPS Reads also provides valuable resources for families to support their children's reading skills at home and fosters a community-wide enthusiasm for reading through various events. More details about SPPS Reads can be found at spps.org/reads.
 |
|
Ramsey County, Minnesota
If you or someone in your life could benefit from naloxone, a drug used to reverse an opioid overdose, please order today. Available to Ramsey County residents while supplies last: ramseycounty.us/Opioids
|
 |
|
Ramsey County, Minnesota
Homestead applications are due by Jan. 2, 2024. More info: Homestead applications are due by Jan. 2, 2024. You must contact the Ramsey County Assessor's Office to file a homestead application if any of the following apply: • You are a new owner. • You have changed your marital status. • You have changed your name. • You have changed residence or mailing address. • You have added or removed an owner. If you sell, move or for any other reason no longer qualify for the homestead classification, you are required to notify the County Assessor within 30 days of the change in homestead status. For more information please visit: ramseycounty.us/Jan2homestead
Ramsey County, Minnesota
Homestead qualification change: Due to a new legislative change, owners or qualifying relatives of owners can now file for homestead using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This new law allows ITIN to be used instead of social security number to file for homestead. If you have not filed for homestead in the past, you may now qualify. Please call our office at 651-266-2040 or email askhomesteads@ramseycounty.us for further information. The time to file is now until January 2, 2024. This is effective for homestead applications filed in 2023 and thereafter. Learn more: ramseycounty.us/Jan2homestead
|
 |
|
Ramsey County, Minnesota
Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health has successfully completed an external review to maintain national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). The accreditation shows that Public Health meets PHAB's national quality standards and has the capacity to evolve, and advance to continue improving the health of Ramsey County residents.
|
Current LEARN & EARN Opportunities at Ramsey County for Youth...click link below!!
www.ramseycounty.us/learn&earn
 Since 2015, over 450 girls and young women at 180 Degrees’ Brittany’s Place received safety and support after experiencing sex trafficking.
What is Brittany's Place?
Launched in 2014, Brittany's Place is Minnesota's first and largest shelter and program for youth experiencing sex trafficking or at risk for sex trafficking. We serve youth of all cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds. You'll find a welcoming place for all.
Services are free and designed to meet the unique needs of youth engaged in or at risk for sex trafficking.
- 8 bed capacity / - Serves female-identifying / -ages 10-19
For immediate help or referral:
CHECK SHELTER BED AVAILABILITY HERE
CALL: (651) 287-4801
TEXT: (612) 295-2913
EMAIL: BRITTANYS.PLACE@180DEGREES.ORG
1281 7th Street East, St. Paul, MN 55106
https://www.180degrees.org/
Safe, Comfortable Spaces
Named for Brittany Clardy;
Brittany’s Place is named after Brittany Charise Clardy (June 29, 1994 – February 11, 2013). Brittany grew up in St. Paul, surrounded by a strong family and community. She attended St. Paul public schools and as a high school student, was employed by the local rec center. She enjoyed a wide circle of friends and had a bright future ahead.
Despite having a solid family and community, Brittany, was groomed by a sex trafficker. On February 11, 2013, she was murdered in a sex trafficking incident. Brittany's family and the community were devastated at the loss of their daughter, sister, friend, and colleague.
A connection brought Brittany's mother to 180 Degrees just as the organization was preparing to open its shelter for youth engaged in sex trafficking, the first in the state. Together, they agreed to name the shelter after Brittany Clardy.
Brittany's spirit inspires all who enter the doors of Brittany's Place, touching girls in residence, staff who provide front-line care, and donors who provide invaluable support. Brittany's Place has evolved from a single emergency shelter achieving national recognition for its continuum of trauma responsive services, specific to the needs of youth and sex trafficking.
Visiting Brittaney's Place...
Emergency Housing Information:
A few things...
- Families with at least one minor child in need of emergency shelter should call the United Way’s Helpline and Crisis Line for a prescreen at;
651-291-0211
- If a family is currently unsheltered, they can also call Ramsey County’s Homeless Services Team directly during business hours at;
651-266-7818
By The Numbers...how people are impacted by the Holiday Season...
In December's gentle embrace, a tapestry unfolds,
A symphony of cultures, in stories to be told.
Snowflakes dance with joy, a universal waltz,
Uniting hearts in merriment, as diverse as our thoughts.
Amid the tinsel and lights, a tale of warmth we weave,
A celebration of love, for every soul to believe.
Christmas trees adorned, with ornaments unique,
Each culture's touch, a language love does speak.
Hanukkah's lights flicker, a radiant glow,
In the embrace of traditions, the world does bestow.
Diwali's lamps aglow, in a festival of light,
Colors burst, painting joy in the quietest night.
Kwanzaa's kinara bright, candles of unity,
A dance of heritage, a vibrant community.
As carols resound in the crisp winter air,
Eid whispers peace, a moment rare.
In the spirit of sharing, with hearts full of cheer,
Embracing all cultures, the season draws near.
So, in December's chorus, let's joyously sing,
A symphony of unity, a harmonious fling.
~Anonymous
*******************************************************************
|
