Eden Prairie honors 2024 Human Rights Award winners

A nonprofit veterinary clinic, a church leader and a youth soccer organizer were recognized at the May 20 Eden Prairie City Council meeting as the city’s 2024 Human Rights Award recipients.

Mission Animal Hospital, Rachel Casper and Naeem Umar received the awards from the city’s Human Rights and Diversity Commission for their efforts to promote inclusion, equity and access in Eden Prairie.

Each year, the commission honors individuals, nonprofit organizations, businesses or youth whose work reflects the values of the Eden Prairie Manifesto—a document developed under former Mayor Dr. Jean L. Harris that calls for a multicultural community rooted in fairness, dignity and respect for all. The Human Rights Awards program began in 1991 and has recognized dozens of community members since.

“This is always a very exciting night,” City Manager Rick Getschow said at the start of the ceremony. “It’s great to see individuals and organizations recognized for their efforts and to have others here to support them.”

Commission Chair Greg Leeper introduced the awards and acknowledged city staff liaison Paja Xiong for his work behind the scenes. Members of the commission presented the awards during the meeting and spoke about each recipient’s impact.

Mission Animal Hospital recognized for expanding access to care

Founded in 2014 and based in Eden Prairie since 2015, Mission Animal Hospital is the only nonprofit full-service veterinary hospital in the United States. It serves nearly 25,000 pet visits annually and supports more than 6,500 families, many of whom face financial barriers to veterinary care.

“They are truly putting compassion into action,” said Commissioner Danielle Burton-Haselrig, who presented the nonprofit award.

Mission uses a reduced-fee model and also provides on-site mental health support and client referrals. As part of its “Compassion in Every Language” initiative, the hospital is expanding translation services for non-English-speaking clients.

Rachel Casper honored for autism inclusion efforts

Rachel Casper, director of Children and Family Ministries at Eden Prairie United Methodist Church, received the individual award for her work advancing accessibility for children with autism.

Casper created the church’s autism ministry, which includes a sensory-friendly worship space, noise-canceling headphones, sensory walls and adaptive toys. She also organizes a free, weeklong adaptive Bible camp that draws families from across the state.

“Rachel’s dedication to inclusion has made a lasting impact,” said Commissioner Savannah Riese. “Her work ensures that every child has access to programming that respects their needs.”

Youth award goes to Naeem Umar for soccer nonprofit

Naeem Umar received the youth award for launching a nonprofit soccer program that eliminates financial barriers for underserved youth. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a team of more than 30 participants.

Umar’s donation-based model covers uniforms, gear and coaching while addressing challenges such as transportation and access to safe training spaces.

“Naeem has created a space where every young person feels seen, valued and included,” said Commissioner Shalanda Berry, who presented the award.

Mayor reaffirms city’s commitment to inclusion

Closing the ceremony, Mayor Ron Case praised the commission’s work and reaffirmed Eden Prairie’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

“Diversity is simply recognizing that we’re all different. Equity means treating everyone fairly. And inclusion is about whether people feel seen and valued,” Case said.

Calling recent national attacks on DEI “misguided,” Case added, “I’m proud to be in a city that acknowledges the uniqueness of each person and works to treat everyone fairly.”