History of the Multicultural Family Center

The Multicultural Family Center has a rich and vibrant history of celebrating the differences and common humanity of our wonderful community. On July 9, 2005, we began as a grassroots organization that met in a storefront to work towards bridging the gaps and helping people. Eventually, a strategic decision was made to align more closely with the City of Dubuque.  As part of the formation of this public/private partnership, we moved to 1157 Central Avenue on Sept. 15, 2009.  Our home, which includes a kitchen, breakfast bar, fireplace, family room, multi-purpose classroom, computer lab, language-learning lab, conference room and offices, received the 365 Impact Award for “Best Social Space” in March of 2014.

The Multicultural Family Center, like all businesses, faced incredible challenges during the covid pandemic, forcing us to shut down during 2020, while remaining connected online to our community. Our grand reopening the following year, including an expansion providing 10,000 square feet of new space, and our continued growth and success, highlights our ability to face adversity and triumph under difficult circumstances. Our rededication on Oct. 21, 2023 was a testament to our resilience and spirit.

Our partnership with the City of Dubuque has allowed us to evolve as a nonprofit organization in many other important ways, solidifying our sense of purpose as we move forward.  As always, we remain committed to recognizing the colorful tapestry of our different cultures while also unifying towards an aspirational future of unity, working with people of all ages, from children to teens to adults.