Minneapolis nonprofit CEO salary triples amid oversight concerns

Muhammad Abdul-Ahad, CEO of the Minneapolis-based nonprofit T. O. U. C. H. Outreach, saw his salary nearly triple to $246,000 in 2024. The nonprofit, which stands for Teaching Our Urban Communities Hope, is one of three groups contracted by the city to act as “violence interrupters” to deescalate disputes in high-crime areas.

An investigation and a recent city audit of the Neighborhood Safety Department revealed significant weaknesses in financial oversight. The auditor’s office noted deficiencies in invoice reviews and work verification, stating, “The city is at increased risk of fraud, waste and abuse within Neighborhood Safety contracts.”

Abdul-Ahad defended his compensation, stating he is underpaid for his dangerous work. His 2024 salary exceeds that of several top city officials, including the mayor and city attorney. While city funding for the nonprofit was increased to approximately $1.5 million in 2024, records indicate that funding was cut by about half in 2025.