Minneapolis erupted in late May 2020. Protests over the murder of George Floyd turned violent, destroying much of the commercial district of a highly diverse neighborhood. As the smoke cleared, the community economic development organization that had long served the area found itself with the best of problems: Donations were flooding in, and the nonprofit realized it had unprecedented accountability.

The ongoing relationship between the Lake Street Council and Lurie LLP ensured that rebuilding was grounded in trust and accountability for the millions in donations that poured in. As response grew, the pro bono work converted to a traditional engagement. Many firms wonder how to respond to community concerns about economic justice. Lurie’s proactive involvement shows how community investment can anchor community recovery.
 
Learning Objectives:

• Summarize why and how Lurie proactively worked with the Lake Street Council


• Describe how Lurie structured the pro bono Lake St. Council engagement as a developmental assignment for rising leader Becky Munson


• List a chronology of the events of summer 2020 and exactly how Lurie and the Lake Street Council rose to the enormous challenge of managing millions of dollars in donations, under the media and community spotlight


• Define best practices in partnering with community economic development organizations