Friends Of Redemption

Sean Hurdle

First 24

Shaun Hurdle is a financial literacy educator, advisor, entrepreneur, and community advocate committed to empowering individuals with the financial knowledge needed to build stability and long-term success.

Shaun teaches budgeting, money management, and financial literacy within the Minnesota Department of Corrections, bringing practical financial education directly to justice-impacted individuals preparing for successful reentry. His impact has led to him becoming the only facilitator in his program to receive a two-year contract with the Department of Corrections.

Steve Kalina

Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association

Dynamic leader in the manufacturing industry, coordinating with partners around the state to unite and strengthen Minnesota Manufacturing. Developing solutions to workforce development challenges through training solutions, legislative improvements, and engagement with youth and our communities.

Joi Jones

Urban League Twin Cities

Joi will share the many free resources available to individuals returning to the community, including an upcoming Expungement Clinic, IT skills training, construction and union career pathways, workforce development programs, and much more. While the Urban League has traditionally focused on serving the African American community, these valuable services are now available to all participants. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how the Urban League can support your journey toward a successful reentry and long-term career success.

Tierre Caldwell

Metro State University

Tierre Caldwell is the Re-Entry Navigator for the Transformation and Reentry Through Education and Community (TREC) program at Metropolitan State University. He helps individuals returning from incarceration pursue higher education, access financial resources, and build pathways to long term success. Through TREC, participants are empowered to earn degrees, develop career opportunities, and create positive change in their lives and communities.

Amber Brown

Black Butterfly House

Amber  Brown is the founder and executive director of Black Butterfly Women  Services (BBWS), a transitional housing and empowerment program for  justice-involved women and women in recovery in Hennepin County,  Minnesota. BBWS’ mission is to serve as a “beacon of hope” by offering a supportive, safe community for justice-involved women and women in recovery as they pursue a better future. The vision is for each woman to live in a world where a mistake could lead to an unbelievable success story.

Jay Grossman

Repowered

A key leader in this work is Jay Grossman, who helps guide Repowered’s Work Readiness Program. Jay brings a deep belief in second chances and works closely with participants to remove barriers, build structure, and create a pathway toward meaningful employment. His leadership helps ensure that every individual who walks through Repowered’s doors is met with opportunity and respect.

Doug Swenson

Doug is a Loan Officer (NMLS #2693825) with Tradition Mortgage.

Based in Edina, Doug has seen all types of credit situations. He will walk you through how the pitfalls of life can damage your credit and give you hope on restoring it. Good Credit is the key to owning the car that you desire, the home that you will watch your family grow up in, and managing a life of stable finances. He will equip you with the knowledge on how to acquire and build the best credit possible for a prosperous future.

Jeff Baidoo

Our special guest, Jeff Baidoo, the Partnership Director of Meet Minneapolis, will share how to make the most of the incredible experiences the Twin Cities have to offer. From free and family-friendly events to kid-free and sober gatherings, Jeff will guide you on how to access all that's happening in Minneapolis. Take advantage of all that your Twin Cities have to offer!

Ben Janike

Based in Waseca, Minnesota, Ben is passionate about helping adults achieve their fitness goals. A former college wrestler, he knows firsthand how easy it is to put health on the back burner as life and raising four kids take center stage. Along his own journey, Ben discovered that you don’t need a fancy gym to get back on track, you just need the courage to start and the discipline to keep going. His message is simple but powerful: consistency is key, and investing in yourself is always worth it.

Heidi Metro

Heidi is a leadership coach, consultant, and speaker who helps people discover the strength of their inner voice. She believes that leadership starts within, and taking care of ourselves is the first step. Through her work with businesses, community groups, and families, Heidi guides others to lean in, listen, and lead from a place of wholeness and humor. She is passionate about creating spaces where people can be seen, heard, and valued for who they are.

Mike Metro

Mike is a lifelong learner, athlete, and advocate for self-care. He brings a raw honesty to conversations about resilience, growth, and the power of starting over. Mike’s own journey has shaped his belief that true leadership begins with taking care of yourself so that you can show up fully for others. He is committed to sharing practical ways to build strength, manage stress, and live with integrity.

Eric Rogness

Eric is a Loan Officer (NMLS #721422) with Supreme Lending (Everett Financial, Inc.), working out of the Edina office and serving clients across the Twin Cities. With a strong background in residential lending, Eric is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the home financing process with clarity and confidence. He recently presented to our Associates on the fundamentals of securing mortgage approval, offering insights into how prospective buyers can best position themselves for success and what to expect at each stage of the loan process.