Ujamaa residential manager has a passion for soccer

"Soccer is my passion," says Sam Owiredu, Ujamaa Place's new Site Manager at Kimball Court. Kimball Court is one of Ujamaa Place's housing options.

Owiredu grew up in Ghana West Africa, relocating to the United States in 1975. He plays soccer every Sunday against others much younger and says, "I love it and I can still compete quite well with others."

Owiredu has over 20 years of experience in the Minnesota correction system, serving at five different locations. He coached the girls soccer program at the Stillwater High School during his assignment at the Oak Park Heights facility.

"My style involves knowing everyone personally. It is very important to communicate effectively, be responsible and reliable. I listen to everyone's concerns," he says. "I absolutely believe in good communications."

His responsibilities at Kimball Court include security of the facility and the immediate area, being involved with community programs involving youth violence, unemployment, other concerns. Otis Zanders, Chief Executive Officer of Ujamaa Place, says, "We are pleased to note the addition of Sam Owiredu to our staff. He will play an important role for us."

Save the Date: Transforming Men’s Lives Breakfast, Thursday October 13.

For more information please check out our website at www.ujamaaplace.org

(651) 528-8006 



1885 University Avenue, Suite 355 Saint Paul, MN 55104

Making Me A Better Dad

I was tired of my old lifestyle. I have journeyed through both the Juvenile and Adult Criminal Justice System. That day, the day I brought Ujamaa into my life changed my family and me forever. 

That first day at Ujamaa, I looked around – really looked around and liked what I saw.  Young black men like me were talking and sharing – just like a family. My coach was incredible, kind but tough. I was proud that he recognized that I wanted to change and had a desire for a better lifestyle. He told me I would have to work hard but I could do it. He believed in me – nobody ever has. He told me that one-day I would be leading by example and really be the embodiment of what a great father looks and acts like.  

My transformation has not been easy – most times I felt like giving up but the coaches at Ujamaa keep inspiring me. I want my sons to be all that they can be in life. And I now know that in order for that to happen, I need to be a father they can count on – I need to be a good example. At Ujamaa I am furthering my education and training in the Construction Program so I can have a good and steady job. My family and I have a safe home subsidized by Ujamaa. I am trying hard to be a great father and husband for my family. 

I am proud to say that I am an Ujamaa Man. 

The Ujamaa Place Theory of Transformation Program is making a difference for Joe and his family. Over 400 men have participated in Ujamaa programming. These men are no longer homeless. They are becoming educated and trained for gainful employment. Families have been reunited. Your donation will allow Ujamaa to continue serving the men who come to us. Most have been involved in the criminal justice system but like Joe, they recognize that it is time for a change - a transformational change. 

Save the Date: Transforming Men’s Lives Breakfast, Thursday October 13.

For more information please check out our website at www.ujamaaplace.org
(651) 528-8006 

Ujamaa Place answers trauma calls at Regions Hospital

Troubled Black men come to Ujamaa.

However, often times Ujamaa Place goes to the man.  Such was the case recently. 

Dr. Tom Blee, a trauma surgeon at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, kept seeing case after case of gunshot or stabbing victims in his operating room. Dr. Blee realized many were individuals he saw on a regular basis with consistent violence wounds. He thought about how he could make a positive impact in the serious cycle of life and death violence and gang involvement.

Dr. Blee understood that the cycle of violence needs to be interrupted at this life-threatening moment for the patient, in the hospital. Thus, the framework of Regions LIFEteam was created.  Through the LIFEteam program, at-risk individuals are identified, and encouraged to participate in a “care attack” to begin a positive life transformation.

In a unique partnership, Ujamaa staff is summoned to Regions in a trauma situation to offer assistance, providing an opportunity to talk to the injured man and introduce him to the Ujamaa Program.  Other LIFEteam partners include Urban Ventures, Catholic Charities, YWCA of St. Paul, and Neighborhood House.

Recently, Ujamaa staff answered a LIFEteam call for assistance. A 24-year-old Black man from Chicago was stabbed several times by his girl friend and had been taken to Regions Hospital. The victim is the father of three children who rely on his presence. Ujamaa immediately responded to offer guidance and assistance to help formulate a path for this man to become a contributing member of his community and his family.

Ujamaa provides this man his opportunity for a second chance. 

This is what we do at Ujamaa, one man at a time. 

Save the Date: Transforming Men’s Lives Breakfast, Thursday October 13.

For more information please check out our
website at www.ujamaaplace.org

(651) 528-8006 
1885 University Avenue, Suite 355 
Saint Paul, MN 55104