The Hennepin County Office of Multi-Cultural Services (OMS) was created in January 2000 to provide a gateway for coordinated multicultural service delivery across county departments, in collaboration with community partners. Through a multifaceted approach, OMS provides accessible, efficient and cost-effective services and resources to multicultural residents to ensure their health, safety, education and self-reliance.

Background

During the past 20 years, hundreds of thousands of immigrants, refugees, asylees, and secondary migrants have come to Minnesota and the Twin Cities area to escape a homeland of war, persecution or poverty. With them come myriad languages, cultures and skills that create a vibrant multicultural environment. They have a common desire for freedom, opportunity and a chance to build a new future—desires that transcend culture, language or nationality.

Diversity of needs

Many turn to Hennepin County for services to help stabilize their lives and transition to self-sufficiency. Their needs are as varied and unique as the regions of the world they once called home—most often these days, places like Africa, Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. Those from less developed countries are immediately confronted with the harsh reality of life in a foreign land that is technologically advanced, highly competitive and extremely complex. They must adapt, learn English and understand values that sometimes conflict with their own.

Vision

Bridging Communities, Respecting Individuals, Valuing Diversity

Mission

To serve Hennepin County Limited English Proficiency (LEP) residents in navigating services by building relationships and serving throughout the community.

We Value:

  • The journey of our clients
  • The diverse experiences, perspectives, and needs of our clients, partners, and staff
  • The commitment to excellence