Why Ka Joog?
In 2007, members of the Somali immigrant community in the Twin Cities asked themselves some important questions.
- What if we could build positive images of Somali, Africa and its people here in America?
- What if we could create a stress-free environment, a place where we share our talents, our voices, and our ideas in a positive manner?
- What if we could be the village that helps to raise successful Somali children and youths in the Twin Cities?
What is Ka Joog?
Ka Joog is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization located in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. Our mission is to answer those questions and realize every one of those dreams, and many more. We initiated this non-profit organization in early 2008, in the hope that it would carry our mission and vision.
Ka Joog began with a vision, a dream, and lots of ”what-ifs.” Our intention is to provide meaningful activities for Somali youth in Minnesota in order to build a strong support network for their future. We would like to educate our little brothers and sisters—and our peers—to inspire them to pursue higher education, and to let them know that their community is here for them. Ka Joog is proud to say that we are continually planning and finding new ways to work with our community, motivate our adults and young adults to vote and to participate in other civil aspects in our society.
How does Ka Joog help Somali families in Minneapolis and St. Paul?
Ka Joog encourages Somali youth to “ka joog” or “stay away” from the drugs, violence, radicalization and other negative influences, and instead to stay on the right path by attaining higher education and serving and volunteering in their communities. Ka Joog can be the voice of reason for our youth. Ka Joog is here to help Somali teens make the right choices, and we provide positive outlets for their feelings and experiences through the arts–music, poetry, visual arts, drama, and other media. Some of the community events coordinated by Ka Joog so far include Talent Night, A Night of Wisdom, and Poetry Nights. These events feature local poets, artists and entertainers from all walks of life. We encouraged our youth to share their God-given talents or simply be an audience and be entertained.
Can you help us?
Please join us in supporting Somali youth and community in the Twin Cities. We would love to see you at one of our upcoming events and we would welcome your contributions of time or financial support.
