American Indian OIC has always believed in the power of culturally grounded education and workforce development to uplift families and communities. Now, thanks to research by The Constellation Fund, we have powerful new data to support what we’ve seen firsthand: our Takoda Institute’s job training programs don’t just change lives— they generate measurable, lasting value for the entire community.
The Takoda Institute is AIOIC’s job training division. The school is licensed by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education to provide career education in the fields of health and human services, information technology, and construction and logistics. Programs last from three weeks to six months and students are trained for occupations that are in demand in the Twin Cities labor market. Graduates enter positions with job titles like Phlebotomist, Computer Support Technician, Materials Handler, Commercial Truck Driver, and more.
The Constellation Fund is a Minneapolis-based philanthropy that uses data-driven methods to identify and support the most effective poverty-fighting programs in the Twin Cities. According to The Constellation Fund’s findings, every $1 invested into AIOIC’s Takoda Institute returns $6.22 to participants served in the program. These benefits include increased earnings, increased access to government resources, and improved health outcomes, which lead to greater economic stability for families. This return on investment demonstrates the deep and far-reaching impact of our work.
The Constellation Fund’s approach combines rigorous cost-benefit analysis with a commitment to equity and community partnership. For AIOIC, they conducted an in-depth evaluation of our job training outcomes, comparing participant data with regional benchmarks and national research to quantify the social and economic value our work generates.
This recognition comes with more than just information. The Constellation Fund has awarded AIOIC a grant to support our ongoing efforts. Even more meaningfully, they’ve committed to providing ongoing data analysis and volunteer support, helping us refine our programs and deepen our impact over time.
This partnership affirms what we’ve always known: when people are given access to personalized support and new career opportunities, the ripple effects are profound. Students at the Takoda Institute gain not only technical skills but also confidence, purpose, and a renewed sense of possibility. And now we have verifiable information that demonstrates that our work strengthens the wider community.
We’re honored by The Constellation Fund’s investment and validation, and we remain committed to delivering high-impact, community-rooted solutions. As we continue to grow and adapt, this partnership will help ensure that every dollar entrusted to us goes further—creating opportunity, dignity, and prosperity for the next generation.
We’re excited for what lies ahead and grateful to you and everyone else who believes in our mission. Together, we’re building a stronger, more equitable future.
Kyla’s journey is shaped by resilience, determination, and a passion for helping others. As a Youth Career Counselor at American Indian OIC, she is dedicated to empowering participants and connecting them with opportunities to achieve their goals.
The American Indian OIC has released a statement addressing the intersecting crises of homelessness, addiction, and community safety affecting our Urban Indigenous community. The statement outlines our commitment to supporting our unsheltered relatives through culturally responsive services while also protecting the safety and well-being of our students, clients, staff, and neighbors. We invite you to read the full statement to better understand our perspective, our values, and our ongoing commitment to our community.
With graduation now behind him, Aureliano “Ray” is stepping into an exciting new chapter while reflecting on the experiences that helped shape his journey. His story is one of growth, self-discovery, and finding the environment where he could thrive. Through perseverance, meaningful connections, and a strong sense of identity, Ray built the confidence and foundation to pursue his goals. Read his story to learn more about the path that led him to this milestone and the future he is working toward.
