Golden Valley Woman Helps Peace House with Crucial Fundraiser

In the shadows of the Minneapolis skyline sits a beacon of hope for those who have fallen on hard times.

“We’re homeless, trying to survive,” said Dred Natty. “The lifestyle, it could lead you to all kinds of criminal directions. When you’re here, that thought is far.”

Natty is one of the roughly 100 people who make their way to Peace House Community every day.

For 35 years, this south Minneapolis gathering spot along Portland Avenue has provided food, conversation and nourishment for those without stable housing.

Golden Valley resident Catherine Mamer has been involved in some capacity for 34 of those years.

“I didn’t feel comfortable in the beginning when I wasn’t bringing a meal or something,” Mamer said. “But then I learned that whatever I had within me, whatever I had to give in conversation with somebody was enough.”

For many of the visitors, Peace House offers them a place to belong.

Community members and volunteers gather outside of Peace House Community in Minneapolis.

“You come here, hey community,” Natty said. “It’s a beautiful thing. That’s the way I see it.”

Some people remain a part of the Peace House family, even in death, as evidenced by a wall of remembrance in the building’s library.

“Sometimes we’ve had the only funeral that they have had,” Mamer said.

Now after 35 years of providing a sense of community, Mamer is working to keep that mission going.

“It’s important that places like this exist,” she said.

Peace House functions primarily through donations. Mamer is playing a key role in fundraising efforts. In her mind, it’s important for people to help change the world in whatever way they can.

“Maybe that’s just by bringing ourselves to a place that’s not like our suburbs of Golden Valley where everything is comfortable, where I can stay in my comfortable house,” she said.

To commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Peace House Community, they’re looking to raise $35,000.

You can go to the Peace House website for more information on how to donate.

Golden Valley | Twin Cities