Growth and Justice

Upstream Arts is a Minneapolis-based organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through the creative arts. With a mission to activate and amplify voice and choice, they offer a range of programs including residencies, self-advocacy classes, and professional development tailored to enhance personal expression and community engagement. After 20 impactful years, Upstream Arts is preparing to sunset this fiscal year, hosting a farewell celebration to reflect on their legacy and contributions. Their commitment to inclusion and accessibility has transformed countless lives, making creative expression an avenue for empowerment and connection within the disability community. Generated from the website

Based in Vadnais Heights, Minn., Merrick is a private, nonprofit charitable corporation licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services as a Day Training and Habilitation provider. The organization was established in 1964 and serves young adults with services for special need individuals. It is an approved work employer network and also provide flexible case management services. The organization serves adults with developmental disabilities by providing supports that offer vocational options, enhance personal skills, empower self-advocacy and expand participation in the community. Its other vocational options include on the job training, independent placements and working on a crew. It provides its services to individuals with various physical and mental developmental disorders that include autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, hearing impaired, mental illnesses, nonambulatory, nonverbal, seizure disorders and visual impairements. Merrick also offers its services for individuals with dietary concerns, such as G-tubes, dietary restrictions and modified diets.