She’s raised almost $20m to help Minnesota – she thinks you can do it too
Ashley Fairbanks initiated the Stand With Minnesota campaign to raise funds and resources for her hometown Minneapolis, accumulating nearly $20 million in support for affected residents facing challenges due to federal immigration actions.
Ashley Fairbanks, a writer and digital strategist, took action after witnessing the immigration challenges in her hometown of Minneapolis from afar in San Antonio. Responding to the turmoil, she created a resource list that quickly evolved into a full-fledged initiative named Stand With Minnesota. This platform has not only served as an information hub but has also facilitated significant fundraising efforts, attracting attention and support from people eager to contribute.
The Stand With Minnesota initiative experienced rapid engagement, reportedly garnering over 2.4 million hits in a short period. Fairbanks's efforts allowed for the seamless coordination of resources and support for those impacted in Minneapolis, signifying a strong outpouring of community effort. The initiative's primary success can be attributed to its ability to harness the digital space effectively, motivating individuals to assist those in need.
Beyond financial contributions, the platform also coordinated travel arrangements for individuals returning to Minneapolis after being released from detention, showcasing a multifaceted approach to aid. Fairbanks's story exemplifies how grassroots efforts can mobilize significant resources and support for local communities affected by national issues, encouraging others to engage in similar initiatives.