Off the Clock with Brooklyn Park City Council Member Lisa Jacobson
When she’s not representing Brooklyn Park constituents, Lisa Jacobson is helping homeless youth through Hope 4 Youth in Anoka. She also dances on two local dance teams.
“I’ve been there.”
Lisa Jacobson heads up Hope 4 Youth in Anoka.
“We are meeting the needs of the currently unaccompanied homeless young people, age 23 and under,” explains Jacobson.
The nonprofit has a drop-in center and housing program to help homeless children and young adults from the northwest metro. She says pain from her past drives her to help others.
“In my first marriage, I was beaten every single day,” says Jacobson. “I believe part of that happened so I could do the work I do today.”
She uses her experience to relate to the youth she works with at Hope 4 Youth.
“I know what it feels like to hide from your abuser, under the stairs, until they pass out,” says Jacobson. I’ve been there. I’ve done that.”
Jacobson continues to help others through a new calling. She became a minister and started a church group at Hope 4 Youth. She performs weddings and has even done a few funerals as well.
“You choose your attitude everyday.”
To relieve stress, Jacobson struts her stuff on two dance teams.
“I’m part competitive ladies tap and jazz group out of Dancing on Broadway in Maple Grove,” says Jacobson.
She performs during halftime shows at the Timberwolves and Lynx. She enjoys the crowd and says they crowd enjoys watching the performers.
Lisa Jacobson continues to dance to her own beat, whether she’s helping out young people or performing to the crowd.
“It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been good,” says Jacobson. “You choose your attitude every day.”
About Hope 4 Youth
Hope 4 Youth is a nonprofit organization located in Anoka that meets the basic needs of young people ages 23 and under who are experiencing homelessness in the north metro suburbs. They operate Drop-In Centers to help with basic necessities. They also connect with youth to help with deeper needs, like securing employment, finishing education or getting medical care.
