SOMALI AMERICAN SOCIAL SERVICE ASSOCIATION (SASSA)
Non-Profit Spotlight
Non-Profit Spotlight: Somali American Social Service Association (SASSA) Taking an in-depth look at a local non-profit, Somali American Social Service Association (SASSA) and their community impact
Since then, we have grown into a steady support system, committed to helping families gain the stability and tools they need to succeed.
Q: Tell us about the Somali American Social Service Association (SASSA). A : The Somali American Social Service Association (SASSA) is dedicated to empowering immigrant communities in Olmsted County and across Minnesota. Our story began in 2012 when we saw a clear need for better access to resources. Our founder, Omar, had been working informally to help new immigrants navigate the complexities of finding housing, healthcare, and education. Recognizing his efforts, community members encouraged him to formalize this work.
Q: How has your organization evolved over the years? A : Since 2012, we have expanded our reach to address everything from youth development and career training to small business growth. By building our programs around the actual needs of the people we serve, we have been able to secure the funding necessary to scale our operations. A major milestone was the launch of our female-only gym, which created a safe space for women to focus on their health and wellness. We have also built strong career pathways through our work with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and our partnership with the Rochester Workforce Center. Today, we are focused on growing our capacity through new partnerships to serve more people in more ways.
16 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — AUGUST 2026
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