Who We Are

Hearthstone of Minnesota is an innovative leader in the provision of residential family care. We are a licensed, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing a therapeutic family-like environment for male youth ages 12 to 18 from the Twin Cities and surrounding communities.

Mission and Vision

Hearthstone of Minnesota provides a therapeutic home environment which helps youth with significant emotional and behavioral challenges become effective contributing adults. Hearthstone strives to be known as a leader in children’s residential care and respected for excellence, innovation, cultural competence, and service effectiveness.

Hearthstone’s unique approach to serving troubled and at-risk adolescents makes significant change possible. We accept children who have often been refused by other service providers, or have bounced among numerous residential placements. Despite facing serious challenges due to their emotional and behavioral issues and the lack of prior permanence and stability, many of our youth experience personal success as they graduate from high school, obtain employment, secure housing, and make progress in many other meaningful areas of their lives.

History
During the early 1970’s, child development experts at the renowned Menninger Clinic in Topeka, Kansas first shed light on the question of how to provide youth who present challenging emotional and behavior problems with a permanent, stable family setting in which to grow up.

Led by Kent Hayes and Alex Lazzarino, these experts created an alternative treatment approach for this group of children. Their efforts were at the forefront of an innovative program which originated first in California in the late 1970’s, and culminating with Minnesota in the fall of 1991.

Hearthstone of Minnesota was founded by Jan Gibson Talbot, who continues to serve as its President and CEO. Hearthstone was created for Minnesota children through the generosity of Mrs. Katherine B. Andersen. Since its inception, Hearthstone has made great strides and is noted for its commitment and creativity in serving this group of troubled and disadvantaged youth.