First Day of MinnCAP Training Conference Filled with Laughter, Tears and Education

The 2023 MinnCAP Annual Training Conference kicked off in remarkable fashion on Tuesday at The Venue in Mankato

Arletta Allen, a former Community Action client, was the keynote speaker. She brought attendees to tears with her story, which started with domestic abuse, homelessness and a bleak future. She then brought them to their feet in joy when she shared how Community Action helped her turn her life around leading to a college education, homeownership and entrepreneurship.

Allen, a best-selling author, reminded attendees that their job is more than a job, but is a position that can impact the lives of people in positive ways that can lead to successful futures for people.

Besides Allen, Mankato Mayor Najwa Massad and Senator Nick Frentz also spoke. Frentz was part of a question & answer session with Minnesota Valley Action Council Executive Director Amanda Mackie. Frentz talked about how important Community Action is to the public and listed ways to get the messages to political leaders, who may support the agencies' advocacy.

A couple hundred people registered for the Training Conference, which had 10 breakout sessions in the afternoon that tackled issues such as handling conflict, managing mission fatigue, diversifying revenue to empathy. Thirty sessions are scheduled over the next two days.

Follow Training Conference happening on social media at @minncap or #MinnCAPConf.