About
About Us

COPAL, Comunidades Organizando el Poder y la Acción Latina, is a member-based organization established in 2018 to improve the quality of life of Latine families. Over the past eight years, COPAL has evolved to become a well-known, grassroots power-building, and visionary transnational organization.
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Careers

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Advocacy
Advocacy

Amplifying the voices of Latine communities in political processes, actively engaging in issue-based coalitions, and holding elected officials accountable to drive meaningful policy change.
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Legislative Agenda

COPAL’s Legislative Victories

MN Latino Vote
Focus Areas
Focus Areas

Building Collective Power, Transforming Systems, and Creating Opportunities– COPAL works collaboratively to transform Minnesota Into a place where every resident thrives and lives with dignity.
Learn about COPAL’s Focus Areas
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Environmental Justice

Health & Wellness

Organizing & Leadership

Workers' Center

South Central Initiative

SouthEast Initiative
Press Room
Press Room

Stay Informed: Explore COPAL’s Press Room for the latest news, updates, and media coverage regarding our advocacy efforts and initiatives.
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Recent News

Media Kit
Resources
Resources

COPAL empowers participants with resources and opportunities for better health, prosperity, and community engagement. We provide holistic support, addressing diverse challenges and connecting strengths to new skills for long-term well-being.
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Become a Member

Workers’ Center

Know Your Rights
Events

Resources

COPAL

We Can Support!

COPAL provides trusted support and connections to essential resources, helping families access housing, food, healthcare, legal assistance, and opportunities for long-term stability and community empowerment.

Need support or have questions? Our Navigators are here for you! Call (612) 255‑3112. If we don’t pick up, leave your name, number, and reason for calling, and we’ll get back to you.

Rental Assistance Resources

COPAL is not accepting applications for rental assistance at this time. Explore other funding resources that may be able to help.

Renters

Residential Lease Agreement (Template)

Disclaimer: This lease agreement template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state and municipality. Users are encouraged to consult with a qualified attorney or housing professional to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws. COPAL does not assume any liability for the use of this document.

Renters

Confidential Reporting Form for Gender-Based Violence by Federal Agents

A confidential form where community members can safely report or share experiences of gender-based or sexual violence or harassment by ICE or other federal agents, and get connected to legal support.

Legal Services

“La Migra” by Francisco Herrera

“La Migra” by Francisco Herrera is an educational song that uses music to teach the immigrant community about their rights during possible immigration operations. Listen, learn, and share it to help others know their rights too.

Legal

Constitutional Observer Handbook

Developed by COPAL and the Immigrant Defense Network, this handbook is a resource for individuals and organizations committed to advancing justice and building resilient communities. It reflects a shared commitment to dignity, equity, and collective action in times of change.

Legal

Free Tax Support

Get free assistance with tax preparation at the Primero de Mayo Workers’ Center (3521 E Lake St, Minneapolis). Walk-ins available Fridays 4-7 PM & Saturdays 9 AM-12 PM. Bring your SSN/ITIN, W-2s, deduction documents, and last year’s tax return. Call (612) 255‑3112 to book an appointment!

Taxes

Volunteer Lawyers Network

Volunteer Lawyers Network is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to connecting Minnesotans experiencing poverty with some of the top private lawyers in the state at no cost.

Legal

HOME Line – Free Legal Help for Renters

HOME Line provides legal assistance for tenants in Minnesota Click to learn more or call HOME Line at English 612-255-8870 (leave a message with your full name, phone number and brief information about your situation and they will call you back.)

Note: If you owe months’ rent, do not wait and request assistance to pay the rent. You are still responsible for paying the months owed. If your landlord is trying to evict you, get legal help right away. These volunteers protect the rights and property of thousands of clients every year by advising them at legal clinics, drafting legal documents, representing them in court or otherwise supporting them in their pursuit of justice.

Renters

Free Tax Prep

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP Tax-Aide programs help prepare federal and state income tax and property tax refund returns. There are over 200 free tax preparation sites available across Minnesota. You may qualify for free tax preparation for your returns.

Taxes

USCIS Case Status

Check your case status online to track an immigration application, petition, or request.

Citizenship

USCIS Naturalization Test Resources

The Citizenship Resource Center provides information about the Naturalization Test requirements; study materials for the English and civics test, including flash cards, pocket study guides, videos, or interactive practices tests; and information on updates or changes to the Naturalization Test. We also offer citizenship resources in other languages.

Citizenship

Minneapolis Renters: Report building repairs and infestations

Call 311 to report building repairs and infestations. Remember to ask for your reference number during the call. The city of Minneapolis will send an inspector out to the building in 10 days or less.

Renters

Food Shelves

Do you need free food pantries? Find the food pantry closest to where you live.

Health

Domestic Violence Hotline

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the bilingual helpline.
CALL Now 651-772-1611

Human
Services

Mental Health Crisis Line

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact:
MN Mental Health Crisis Line: ** CRISIS or ** 274747

Health

Computer Skills Classes

Build your skills with our courses on basic computer and software use. No experience is needed! To sign up, call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 or click the “Learn More” button to submit an online request and get connected.

Education

Citizenship Classes

Taught in Spanish with English practice, these classes cover the topics needed for the U.S. citizenship exam. To sign up, call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 or click the “Learn More” button to submit an online request and get connected.

Education

GED Classes

Work toward your GED at your own pace online through GEDWorks. To sign up, call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 or click the “Learn More” button to submit an online request and get connected.

Education

United Way 2-1-1: Health & Human Resources

United Way 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember, three-digit number that families and individuals in Minnesota can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services. 2-1-1 call centers are staffed 24/7 by trained Community Resource Specialists who quickly assess needs and refer callers to the help that they seek.

Resources

Apply for or renew driver’s licenses in Minnesota

Visit the DVS (Driver and Vehicle Services) website and follow the steps to submit your driver's license application.

Driver’s
License

Certificate of Translation Form

Document issued by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety certifying the accurate translation of documents written in a language other than English, as required by state regulations.

Driver’s
License

Request Group Class D Oral Knowledge Test

How to request group Class D knowledge oral exams in Minnesota. Booking requirements, available locations, and participant identification procedures.

Driver’s
License

Take the Knowledge Test with COPAL

Preparing for your driver’s license? COPAL offers support for the knowledge exam to help you feel confident and ready. Call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 to schedule your appointment and get the guidance you need.

Driver’s
License

Minnesota Driver’s Manual

Download the Minnesota Driver's Manual so that you can prepare thoroughly for the knowledge test and successfully obtain your driver's license.

Driver’s
License

Inflation Reduction Law (IRA) Resources

Resources to help you calculate how much you can receive in electrification incentives and how you can save money with clean energy.

Environmental
Justice

Earned sick and safe time

Sick and safe time is paid leave employers must provide to employees in Minnesota that can be used for certain reasons, including when an employee is sick, to care for a sick family member or to seek assistance if an employee or their family member has experienced domestic abuse, sexual assault or stalking.

Workers
Rights

Paid Leave benefits

Paid Leave is a new program launching for Minnesotans in 2026. It provides paid time off when a serious health condition prevents you from working, when workers need time to care for a family member or a new child, for certain military-related events or for certain personal safety issues.

Workers
Rights

Pregnant workers and new parents

In Minnesota, workers have legal protections to help keep them safe and healthy in the workplace. Most employers are willing to comply with laws that support their pregnant and lactating employees.

Workers
Rights

Class D driver’s license for new driver age 18 and older

New drivers age 18 and older have different requirements to get a license than new drivers under 18. There are also different rules for drivers age 19 and older.

Driver’s
License

Apply for or renew driver’s licenses in Minnesota

Visit the DVS (Driver and Vehicle Services) website and follow the steps to submit your driver's license application.

Driver’s
License

Certificate of Translation Form

Document issued by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety certifying the accurate translation of documents written in a language other than English, as required by state regulations.

Driver’s
License

Request Group Class D Oral Knowledge Test

How to request group Class D knowledge oral exams in Minnesota. Booking requirements, available locations, and participant identification procedures.

Driver’s
License

Take the Knowledge Test with COPAL

Preparing for your driver’s license? COPAL offers support for the knowledge exam to help you feel confident and ready. Call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 to schedule your appointment and get the guidance you need.

Driver’s
License

Minnesota Driver’s Manual

Download the Minnesota Driver's Manual so that you can prepare thoroughly for the knowledge test and successfully obtain your driver's license.

Driver’s
License

Class D driver’s license for new driver age 18 and older

New drivers age 18 and older have different requirements to get a license than new drivers under 18. There are also different rules for drivers age 19 and older.

Driver’s
License

Computer Skills Classes

Build your skills with our courses on basic computer and software use. No experience is needed! To sign up, call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 or click the “Learn More” button to submit an online request and get connected.

Education

Citizenship Classes

Taught in Spanish with English practice, these classes cover the topics needed for the U.S. citizenship exam. To sign up, call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 or click the “Learn More” button to submit an online request and get connected.

Education

GED Classes

Work toward your GED at your own pace online through GEDWorks. To sign up, call our Navigators at (612) 255-3112 or click the “Learn More” button to submit an online request and get connected.

Education

Inflation Reduction Law (IRA) Resources

Resources to help you calculate how much you can receive in electrification incentives and how you can save money with clean energy.

Environmental
Justice

Food Shelves

Do you need free food pantries? Find the food pantry closest to where you live.

Health

Domestic Violence Hotline

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the bilingual helpline.
CALL Now 651-772-1611

Human
Services

Mental Health Crisis Line

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact:
MN Mental Health Crisis Line: ** CRISIS or ** 274747

Health

United Way 2-1-1: Health & Human Resources

United Way 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember, three-digit number that families and individuals in Minnesota can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services. 2-1-1 call centers are staffed 24/7 by trained Community Resource Specialists who quickly assess needs and refer callers to the help that they seek.

Resources

“La Migra” by Francisco Herrera

“La Migra” by Francisco Herrera is an educational song that uses music to teach the immigrant community about their rights during possible immigration operations. Listen, learn, and share it to help others know their rights too.

Legal

Constitutional Observer Handbook

Developed by COPAL and the Immigrant Defense Network, this handbook is a resource for individuals and organizations committed to advancing justice and building resilient communities. It reflects a shared commitment to dignity, equity, and collective action in times of change.

Legal

Volunteer Lawyers Network

Volunteer Lawyers Network is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to connecting Minnesotans experiencing poverty with some of the top private lawyers in the state at no cost.

Legal

HOME Line – Free Legal Help for Renters

HOME Line provides legal assistance for tenants in Minnesota Click to learn more or call HOME Line at English 612-255-8870 (leave a message with your full name, phone number and brief information about your situation and they will call you back.)

Note: If you owe months’ rent, do not wait and request assistance to pay the rent. You are still responsible for paying the months owed. If your landlord is trying to evict you, get legal help right away. These volunteers protect the rights and property of thousands of clients every year by advising them at legal clinics, drafting legal documents, representing them in court or otherwise supporting them in their pursuit of justice.

Renters

United Way 2-1-1: Health & Human Resources

United Way 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember, three-digit number that families and individuals in Minnesota can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services. 2-1-1 call centers are staffed 24/7 by trained Community Resource Specialists who quickly assess needs and refer callers to the help that they seek.

Resources

Rental Assistance Resources

COPAL is not accepting applications for rental assistance at this time. Explore other funding resources that may be able to help.

Renters

Residential Lease Agreement (Template)

Disclaimer: This lease agreement template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state and municipality. Users are encouraged to consult with a qualified attorney or housing professional to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws. COPAL does not assume any liability for the use of this document.

Renters

HOME Line – Free Legal Help for Renters

HOME Line provides legal assistance for tenants in Minnesota Click to learn more or call HOME Line at English 612-255-8870 (leave a message with your full name, phone number and brief information about your situation and they will call you back.)

Note: If you owe months’ rent, do not wait and request assistance to pay the rent. You are still responsible for paying the months owed. If your landlord is trying to evict you, get legal help right away. These volunteers protect the rights and property of thousands of clients every year by advising them at legal clinics, drafting legal documents, representing them in court or otherwise supporting them in their pursuit of justice.

Renters

Minneapolis Renters: Report building repairs and infestations

Call 311 to report building repairs and infestations. Remember to ask for your reference number during the call. The city of Minneapolis will send an inspector out to the building in 10 days or less.

Renters

United Way 2-1-1: Health & Human Resources

United Way 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember, three-digit number that families and individuals in Minnesota can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services. 2-1-1 call centers are staffed 24/7 by trained Community Resource Specialists who quickly assess needs and refer callers to the help that they seek.

Resources

Free Tax Support

Get free assistance with tax preparation at the Primero de Mayo Workers’ Center (3521 E Lake St, Minneapolis). Walk-ins available Fridays 4-7 PM & Saturdays 9 AM-12 PM. Bring your SSN/ITIN, W-2s, deduction documents, and last year’s tax return. Call (612) 255‑3112 to book an appointment!

Taxes

Free Tax Prep

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP Tax-Aide programs help prepare federal and state income tax and property tax refund returns. There are over 200 free tax preparation sites available across Minnesota. You may qualify for free tax preparation for your returns.

Taxes

United Way 2-1-1: Health & Human Resources

United Way 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember, three-digit number that families and individuals in Minnesota can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services. 2-1-1 call centers are staffed 24/7 by trained Community Resource Specialists who quickly assess needs and refer callers to the help that they seek.

Resources

Earned sick and safe time

Sick and safe time is paid leave employers must provide to employees in Minnesota that can be used for certain reasons, including when an employee is sick, to care for a sick family member or to seek assistance if an employee or their family member has experienced domestic abuse, sexual assault or stalking.

Workers
Rights

Paid Leave benefits

Paid Leave is a new program launching for Minnesotans in 2026. It provides paid time off when a serious health condition prevents you from working, when workers need time to care for a family member or a new child, for certain military-related events or for certain personal safety issues.

Workers
Rights

Pregnant workers and new parents

In Minnesota, workers have legal protections to help keep them safe and healthy in the workplace. Most employers are willing to comply with laws that support their pregnant and lactating employees.

Workers
Rights

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We want to create community, empower individuals, build power, and inspire meaningful action. Your participation is crucial in achieving these goals. Join us!

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Donate today to empower the Latine community, continue building community power, foster participatory democracy, and enhance the quality of life for Latines in Minnesota!

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