Connection and Support Start Here.180 Degrees Emergency Youth Shelter, located in Rochester Township, is possible only because of generous community support. When you make a gift, you ensure that youth across southeast Minnesota have access to safe shelter, meals, and supportive services. Services address crisis, build stability, and empower youth and their families to build positive pathways forward.
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new shelter capacity:
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In 1963 in a speech to civic leaders in Austin, MN, Stanley E. Hubbard, Sr. declared that "every boy needs a home." He pledged $10,000, inviting others to join him to open a home for twelve boys who lacked a safe place to stay. Hubbard's initial gift catalyzed a tremendous spirit of generosity and soon the Hubbard House opened in Austin. The program and vision were then carried forward by the statewide Sheriff's Youth Association, which opened and operated several homes for youth around the state.
About 25 years later, Olmsted County Sheriff Chuck VonWald recognized the need for a safe home for youth in Rochester and the surrounding communities. He mobilized business and community members to raise funds, converting a farmhouse in rural Rochester Township into a 12-bedroom home for youth. 180 Degrees is proud to build on this important legacy of community leadership. In 2011, 180 Degrees purchased all assets from the Sheriff's Youth program to ensure rural youth had services as well as welcoming programs and facilities. As a statewide leader operating residential facilities for at-risk populations, 180 Degrees has implemented and expanded innovative programming, strengthened long-term financial viability, and quality measures that ensure youth achieve positive outcomes. |
Since 1989, bold leaders have championed the needs of vulnerable youth across southern Minnesota.
180 Degrees' CEO Dan Pfarr's rural roots and values run deep. One of eight children, he grew up in LeSueur, MN on a "Century Farm," farmed by his family for over one hundred years. "We learned to rely on another and take care of others in our community," said Pfarr. His parents opened their home to youth who had no place to go, serving as foster parents throughout Pfarr's childhood. With a non-profit career spanning over 30 years, Pfarr saw opportunity at 180 Degrees to ensure that rural youth, families, and communities had access to support services that are often more abundant in urban communities. Since taking the helm at 180 Degrees in 2015, Pfarr has pursued avenues to finance a much-needed new shelter to replace the re-purposed farmhouse that opened in the mid-1980s. In 2024, the City of Eyota, Stearns Bank, and Olmsted County joined together to make this new $10 million youth shelter and connection center possible. Rochester-based contractor Weis Builders broke ground on the new building in December 2024 and opening is targeted for early 2026. |
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We rely on community support to care for youth who experience homelessness, neglect, and family crisis. We invite individuals, businesses, and community groups to be a part of Building Brighter Futures for all youth.
We seek donations to help us furnish the shelter, ensuring a welcoming place for all. Enjoy cooking? Outfit the kitchen. Passionate about fitness? Provide equipment for our new space. Committed to youth well-being? Adopt a bedroom! Check out furnishing needs below. |
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Proud partners of
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