Legal Transformation
Many people are detained without appropriate legal representation. We help those facing legal challenges get the right help at the right time, and make sure they know their rights and responsibilities.
Safety & Equity for All
We are SafeGuard, a nonprofit united to help provide safety and equity in Minnesota. We help Minnesota youth and families stay safe, stable and seen — before problems become crises.
United We Stand!
501(c)(3) • Community-led • Fast Response • Partners Across MN
SafeGuard mourns the homegoing of one of its founders and board members.
Joseph Lemuel Vah Jr.
Founder & Board Member
Founder and Executive Director Wilfred T. Harris being escorted by OLM Chief of Protocol Joseph Lemuel Vah Jr. during inauguration activities. On this occasion, then-Governor Mark Dayton pledged and secured the $250,000 community development package, which was used as the bedrock for the present official complex of the Organization of Liberians in Minnesota.
Our Program
America101
Our flagship, prevention-first program
Safeguard Minnesota’s flagship program, America101, uses real-life discussions to teach youth their rights, responsibilities and conflict resolution skills. This prevention-first model helps young people avoid becoming entangled in the legal system.
We also provide support in mental health, job training and mediation to create safety and equity for all across Minnesota.
Mental Health
According to NAMI, 37.3% of young adults experience a mental illness. Many carry trauma without the support they need. SafeGuard advocates for them and connects them with help.
Job Training
Our partners work with training institutes and community groups to help people reach their full potential, especially in healthcare and business ownership.
Conflict Resolution
Through partnerships with community stakeholders, we help resolve conflicts before they become legal problems. We will help.
Partner with us
We are committed to a safe and equitable Minnesota for all.
United We Stand
What we do
Safety & Equity
Safeguard Minnesota works with community and academic partners to reduce violence, expand legal access and create pathways to opportunity.
✓
We help immigrants new to Minnesota know their rights and get the right help for their needs or legal challenges.
✓
We partner with stakeholders to strengthen community relationships and to hire more first responders who reflect Minnesota’s diverse communities.
✓
We create space for dialogue, partnering with churches, schools and community organizations so young people know their rights, the law and how to engage with one another.
01
Violence Prevention
We reduce violence and inequity by giving youth and families conflict resolution tools and community support.
02
Legal Access
We secure legal representation for minority and low-income Minnesotans who often face barriers to justice.
03
Immigrant Support
We connect African immigrants and other underserved communities with qualified legal professionals, helping them avoid unnecessary incarceration.
04
Workforce Partnerships
We partner with Minnesota’s academic institutions to create training, sponsorship and first-job opportunities, especially in healthcare, where the need is greatest.