A Message from our

Executive Director

Over the past several weeks, our community has endured troubling and deeply challenging events. Cornerstone stands firmly in our mission to disrupt violence through advocacy, support, and prevention. We partner with individuals, families, and organizations to build communities free from harm, and moments like this remind us why that mission is essential.

We also acknowledge that Black and Brown communities have long experienced state-sanctioned harm, surveillance, and violence. The trauma unfolding today does not exist in isolation; it reaffirms generations of harm, intimidation, displacement, and disregard for human rights. These historical and ongoing injustices deepen the impact of what our community is experiencing now and must be named as part of the truth we hold.

The recent actions taken by ICE within our community and across our state and nation are counter to everything advocates in the domestic violence, trafficking, and sexual violence fields have worked decades to change. The use of fear, intimidation, and unchecked authority mirrors the very dynamics captured in the Power and Control Wheel, developed here in Minnesota as part of the Duluth Model, which illustrates how abuse thrives through dominance, coercion, and the misuse of power.

At the same time, we have seen reports and firsthand accounts of sexual violence and assault, including disturbing documentation circulating online. The weaponization of sexual violence to intimidate, silence, or force submission is a strategy long recognized by survivors, and it must be named for what it is.

Although there is conversation about federal agents retreating, we know from decades of work that the moment an abuser steps back is often the most dangerous time for victims and survivors. Systems-level abuse does not disappear overnight, and additional harm often occurs when victims/survivors are silenced. We cannot assume safety simply because the presence changes shape.

It is imperative to take all threats seriously; we must stay vigilant, grounded in truth, and remain committed to our mission of safety, healing, and justice. There is a clear line between abusive relationships and the conduct we have experienced as a community: when power is used to instill fear rather than support safety, the pattern is the same.

Nelson Mandela taught through the model of Truth and Reconciliation that healing is not possible without truth. To move forward, there must be real acknowledgment of harm. Only then can communities begin the work of repair.

Cornerstone remains here for all victims/survivors, here for our community, and here for the long journey toward safety and justice for all. If you or someone you know needs support, please call our Day One statewide crisis line at 1‑866‑223‑1111 or visit the Day One website: https://dayoneservices.org/.

Current Needs

Cornerstone is currently in need of:

Twin comforters in any color
5 sets of pots and pans with matching utensils
Microfiber cleaning cloths
Cleaning supplies
Adult socks
Adult t-shirts in sizes small, medium, and large

Cornerstone is also in need of gift cards to Cub Foods or Walmart to help families purchase groceries and basic needs items as they arise. The suggested amount of each gift card is $25-$50.

Due to concerns around access to our building, all donation drop-offs must be coordinated in advance. Please contact Courtney Poja to set up a time to drop off donations; her email address is courtneyp@cornerstonemn.org.

Volunteer Opportunities

We are looking for volunteers to help out at Cornerstone’s upcoming “Galentine’s Day” party on February 10th from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Volunteers will help set up, do craft projects with kids and serve dinner to the families who attend. We are also looking for donated valentine-making supplies, including construction paper, scrapbook paper, and stickers.

If you are interested in volunteer opportunities or would like more information, click here, or contact Courtney P, Director of Advancement, at courtneyp@cornerstonemn.org.

Donor Spotlight

"I grew up with parents who emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and caring for others. Their example instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of service and compassion. Cornerstone’s mission to support people in times of need was exactly why my Mom volunteered at Cornerstone for over 19 years. After my mother passed in 2017, I have donated to Cornerstone each year in her memory. This helps me feel connected to her and supports Cornerstone’s mission to provide a safe place for those who need it. I know that she would be happy that I continue to support Cornerstone."

-Julie Flammang

Pictured: Julie Flammang and Janet Flammang

Thank You To Our Supporters!

Thank you to the Church of St. Edward community for their ongoing partnership and commitment to keeping victim/survivors of domestic violence warm this winter. This year, they donated 218 coats and snow pants, 333 hats, mittens and gloves, 43 pairs of boots, and other items to Cornerstone's families. We are also so grateful for their donation of gift cards, which help us meet our participants’ most urgent needs as they arise.

Thank you, Church of St. Edward!

Thank you to the Minneapolis-St. Paul Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority for hosting a wonderful event for Cornerstone's families as part of their Founders Day celebration. We greatly appreciate your continued support!

We'd like to express our gratitude to the Luther Automotive Foundation for their incredibly generous gift in support of our Emergency Services program! We're so grateful to reconnect with this foundation, who provided us with several years of support in the past and whose loyalty and partnership give us a feeling of true allyship in our surrounding community.

Thank you, Luther Auto!