With a mission to promote inter-cultural appreciation and understanding through the presentation of global music, The Cedar Cultural Center provides a welcoming and inclusive space for all, according to communication specialist Brian Corner.

Unlike other Minneapolis music venues, The Cedar Cultural Center, also known as The Cedar, is a non-profit organization relying highly on volunteers to showcase music from all over the globe, Corner said.

“For each show, about 16-20 volunteers contribute their time and energy for various tasks,” Corner said. “(Volunteers) earn credit towards a free ticket for a future show of their choice.”

Junior Naila Binda volunteers at The Cedar and has seen multiple shows at the venue. She said she enjoys volunteering because of the rewards.

“(Volunteering) comes with many benefits,” Binda said. “You can see and sometimes meet the artists at a show you volunteer for, all while you help keep the venue going for more artists to come.”

Located within the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood in Minneapolis, The Cedar shows performances for all ages from global music like Malian musician, Vieux Farka Touré, to local Minneapolis band The Farewell Circuit.

“(The Cedar) is a good place to keep in mind if you are looking to hear live music but can’t get into the bars and clubs,” Corner said. “Our volunteer program enables high school students to see shows for free, so even if you are broke, you can hear amazing music and have fun!”

Senior Justin Kottke said he attends performances at The Cedar to expose himself to different types of music.

“I thought going (to The Cedar) was a lot of fun,” Kottke said. “It’s really nice to experience all the different cultures within Minneapolis through music.”

For more information on how to become a volunteer at The Cedar, visit thecedar.org/get-involved/volunteer