Twin City Business' Executive V.P. Donald W.R. Allen, II responds to Commentary

PR Log (Press Release) – Jun 28, 2008 – The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder recently published an article written by Mr. Allen titled “The Year 2010 in North Minneapolis” (By Donald W. Allen,II June 19, 2008).  The commentary has raised questions and gained support but also has drawn harsh criticism about the state of north Minneapolis.  

Mr. Fred Easter, president/CEO of the City, Inc. (www.thecityinc.org) says, “How can you write about North Minneapolis non-profits without knowing about the City, Inc.?”  Mr. Easter also went on to say, “The City, Inc. has just graduated 17 Black males from our high school, we are doing something in the community.”

Mr. Allen responded by telling Mr. Easter that, “This is information that needs to be distributed to the masses.  If only you (The City, Inc.), know about your accomplishments, how will the mainstream media and others find out about the work City, Inc. does?”  This is an important piece missing for non-profits – the marketing of successful measurable outcomes.  Twin City Business (www.tcbusiness.org/blog and www.tcbusiness.org) has offered The City, Inc. services to get the information into the mainstream media locally and nationally.  Mr. Allen is apologetic to Mr. Easter and hopes an alliance can be formed between the City, Inc. and Twin City Business to assist the non-profit in fundraising, marketing and public relations.

About the City, Inc.

For 40 years, The City, Inc. has worked with youth and families who reside in the inner-city neighborhoods of Minneapolis. These neighborhoods we serve are plagued with poverty and violence. Families and children are in crisis and are in need of a helping hand. The City, Inc. is dedicated to helping young people and their families receive the support they need to begin to build better lives for themselves. Our support and services help enable them to make positive changes.