In 2008, a group of concerned community members (see Our Team) realized that there is a need for increased access to information and resources in the African and African American communities. They also observed that many organizations experience immense challenges when trying to reach that population.

As a result, they started a volunteer-driven initiative called African, Career, Education & Resource, Inc. (ACER), to address those pressing needs. ACER is dedicated to closing the resource, health, and information disparities within Minnesota’s communities of African descent.

The organization is now a subsidiary of S.A.R.X - “Strengthening African Resilience toward Excellence,” a registered Minnesota based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

ACER presented the first-ever African Career, Education & Resource fair in March 2009.

Mission

ACER’s mission is to identify, develop and promote culturally competent solutions that help Africans, African Americans, and other communities of color achieve societal and economic independence.

Vision

We envision a state where all people, irrespective of race, class, nationality, ethnicity, religion, or gender have equal access to resources, opportunities and services to build their capacities to succeed and contribute fully to life in Minnesota. For our vision to be realized, ACER believes everyone must have access to education, jobs, adequate health, and housing, and the means to build wealth and financial assets–the foundation of thriving societies.