CAPI

History

CAPI USA has a mission to guide refugees and immigrants in their journey toward self-determination and social equality. Established in 1982 as the Center for Asians and Pacific Islanders to support Southeast Asian refugee resettlement following the Vietnam War, the organization changed its name to CAPI in 2008 to be more inclusive of all refugee and immigrant communities.

With core values rooted in equity, inclusion and accessibility, CAPI provides direct services to 10,000+lower-income people (95% BIPOC) annually in its Community Advocacy, Economic Empowerment, and Refugee Services initiatives.

CAPI’s core programming seeks to meet foundational needs, increase income and wealth, and elevate voices with decision-makers to advance the social and economic position of immigrant communities. CAPI’s multi-service site and headquarters in Brooklyn Center (Immigrant Opportunity Center) and second multi-service site in Minneapolis (Lake Street Center) provide integrated, accessible programming and onsite partnerships that increase culturally-appropriate services for persons of all nationalities. CAPI’s Civic Engagement work engages an additional 8,000+ persons annually in support of public policy initiatives impacting Minnesota’s immigrant communities.

Strategic Priorities

In September 2023, CAPI launched a $7.5M Capital Campaign for the expansion of its current Immigrant Opportunity Center. Our goal is to become a thriving community hub in Brooklyn Center, bringing additional economic resources to the community.

Annual Budget: $5,700,000 – Foundations, Individual Contributions, Government Grants or Contracts

Skills

CAPI is seeking board members with skills in the following areas:

• Board Governance
• Financial Management
• Fundraising
• Legal

CAPI is especially seeking board members that identify with the immigrant and refugee communities CAPI serves.

Information

• Number of members currently: 11
• Meeting frequency:  10 meetings annually
• Meeting location: Virtual
• Does nonprofit carry liability insurance? Yes

Expectations

• Time Expectation: Up to 5 hours/month
• Financial Contribution Required: Yes
• Service on Committee Required: Yes
  • Committees: Executive, Governance, Fundraising
• Length of Term: 2 Years
• Renewable: Yes