meet bernice

My story began in Monrovia, Liberia, where I witnessed the effects of war, political instability, and corruption. Those experiences taught me the importance of integrity, community, and good governance. When I immigrated to the United States in 2002, I brought that resilience with me—determined to contribute, serve, and help others build better lives.

I earned two degrees and became a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. For 14 years, I’ve been on the frontlines serving families facing mental health challenges, substance use, poverty, and systemic barriers—across hospitals, nursing homes, juvenile detention centers, disability services, and police departments.

Throughout my career, I have served in nearly every corner of social work:

  • Nursing home social work – Supporting our elders so they age with dignity and connection.

  • Medical social work – Guiding patients and families through medical crises.

  • Child protection social work – Protecting children and helping families stay together to build safer homes.

  • Disability services case management – Connecting people with disabilities to long-term supports that sustain independence.

  • Police-embedded social work – Responding to mental-health crises with officers, de-escalating crises, and connecting residents to the right help.

  • Parks & Community Social Work - Strengthening families and youth by ensuring our parks are safe, accessible, and connected to community resources.

Beyond my professional work, I volunteer with the Police Chief’s Multicultural Advisory Committee and have served as a Human Rights Commissioner, working to rebuild trust and open communication between residents and institutions. I also co-lead Rise Beyond Hate, a nonprofit that empowers youth and strengthens community connections.

My work has given me a deep understanding of the challenges families face—from mental health and housing stability to child safety, access to resources, and protecting our most vulnerable. I approach every situation with compassion, listening, and solutions.

My priorities are simple: safety, opportunity, and dignity for every family in Brooklyn Park. That’s the experience, the heart, and the insight I will bring as your next City Council member.

Bernice Cooper running for City Council West District Brooklyn Park Minnesota Hennepin County and her family
Group of children and adults, Bernice Cooper, holding protest signs against violence, standing near a chain-link fence on a sunny day. Bernice Cooper running for City Council West District Brooklyn Park Minnesota Hennepin County and her family.
People talking and socializing inside a wooden room with vintage decor and woodpile, featuring both standing and seated individuals, some in conversation and others waiting. Bernice Cooper running for City Council West District Brooklyn Park