Yesterday evening (May 24) there was a shooting incident near the Urban Ventures soccer fields during soccer practice. While thankfully no players were hurt, one of our beloved coaches suffered a minor injury from a stray bullet. We are grateful that his injury did not require further medical attention.

The shooting took place on the corner of 5th Avenue and 29th Street. Two vehicles stopped near each other and exchanged gunfire. Coaches worked to quickly encourage students to seek cover. Some of the shooters ran away on foot while others drove away. The police arrived and are investigating the shooting. Urban Ventures has provided security footage and will work to help the investigation in any way possible.

Although this incident did not take place on Urban Ventures property—nor were UVA programs targeted—it is nonetheless a terrifying incident that was far too close to our students.

Due to the traumatic nature of this event, we have cancelled all soccer activities for Tuesday, May 25. On Wednesday, May 26 at 6pm, we are inviting soccer players and their families to meet in the Colin Powell Center auditorium to discuss this incident. In addition to the coaching staff and members of the Urban Ventures management team, we are working to have trauma counselors and members of the Minneapolis Police Department on hand to meet with players and parents.

As we remember the life of George Floyd, exactly one year after his life was taken in such a horrific way, I am reminded of how strong and resilient this community is—and how, even in the most difficult times, we support each other.

We will remain steadfast in our efforts to protect children when participating in Urban Ventures programming.

We thank God that nobody was seriously injured tonight, and we hope you will join us in praying for lasting peace in our city.

Sincerely,

Dave Hawn
President & CEO