Local Mascots and Holiday Icons Join Anoka County Sheriff to Combat Youth Homelessness

ANDOVER, Minn. — In a heartwarming display of community unity, the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office partnered with the Anoka–Hennepin School District and local supporters this week for a festive fundraiser benefiting HOPE 4 Youth, a nonprofit dedicated to ending youth homelessness in Anoka County.

The event, held at the Sheriff’s Office headquarters in Andover, featured an unlikely but spirited cast of characters — a dragon, a husky, a panther, a tornado, Santa Claus, and an elf — drawing attention to the urgent and often hidden crisis of youth homelessness in the suburbs.

A Community of Characters

Each mascot represented a local school or organization:

• Tornado – Anoka High School
• Husky – Andover High School
• Panther – Spring Lake Park High School
• Dragon – Likely DaVinci Academy in Ham Lake

Alongside Santa and his elf, these figures joined Sheriff’s Office staff in highlighting youth homelessness, which often remains invisible in suburban communities. Many young people in the area may be “couch-hopping,” sleeping in cars, or staying in unsafe locations.

Supporting HOPE 4 Youth’s Mission

The fundraiser benefits HOPE 4 Youth, which serves young people aged 16 to 24 experiencing homelessness. The organization provides:

• Drop-In Centers: Safe spaces offering food, clothing, hygiene items, and support services.
• Housing Programs: Transitional housing, host homes, and resources to help youth find stable living arrangements.
• Empowerment Resources: Assistance with education, employment, and health to foster independence and self-sufficiency.

HOPE 4 Youth’s mission is to ensure that no young person in Anoka County is left without shelter or support, even in the coldest months.

Law Enforcement’s Role

The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office has been a long-time partner of HOPE 4 Youth, participating in initiatives like the annual “Out of the Cold” campaign, where community leaders spend a night outside to raise awareness of youth homelessness. This mascot-filled fundraiser continues the agency’s commitment to proactive community engagement and support for vulnerable populations.

How the Community Can Help

Community members are encouraged to turn this festive gathering into tangible support:

• Donate online: www.hope4youthmn.org/donate

• Attend events: Participate in programs like “Out of the Cold” or local drives.
• Stay engaged: Support HOPE 4 Youth’s ongoing initiatives, including the Building HOPE project, which will expand housing, drop-in capacity, and educational resources.

By combining community engagement, school involvement, and law enforcement support, this fundraiser demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing youth homelessness — making the holiday season brighter and safer for young people in need.

MinneapoliMedia