Shaping a Better Future
Connected Communities aims to place seniors and their families at the heart of a community conversation, ensuring their needs and preferences guide a collaborative care network.

Phase One Pilots

Elevate is an initiative by Perham Health in northeastern Otter Tail County, Minnesota, dedicated to helping adults age well by offering social events, volunteer opportunities, health coaching, and access to essential resources that support physical, mental, and social well-being.

Lakes Area Connected Communities is led by Vivie and currently operates in Douglas, Pope, Stevens, Grant, Traverse counties in Minnesota. By addressing social determinants of health and fostering partnerships with communities and health systems, Vivie's Connected Communities project seeks to create a seamless network of resources that support physical, mental, and social well-being for older adults.
Phase Two Pilots

Bethesda Connected Communities is a community-based outreach initiative in Kandiyohi County focused on enhancing the quality of life for older adults, particularly those who are isolated or from diverse backgrounds. By intentionally connecting with aging adults, the project works to reduce isolation, strengthen community ties, and maximize access to vital resources and services. Through culturally sensitive outreach and relationship-building, Bethesda fosters trust, increases awareness of aging services, and helps older adults remain healthy, engaged, and independent in their own homes.
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Thryve, powered by Guardian Angels, is a community-centered initiative serving Sherburne and Wright Counties. Focused on overall wellbeing, nurturing independence, and building strong community partnerships, Thryve works with local organizations to proactively support older adults and their families, helping them plan ahead and stay connected. Through resources navigation, social and educational programs, and caregiver guidance, Thryve helps individuals remain engaged, informed, and confident as they age.
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Connected Community of Freeborn County is a collaborative initiative helping older adults (55+) stay independent and supported in their homes by linking them with essential health, wellness, and social support resources. The program connects seniors with virtual home care, medication support, daily check-ins, transportation, emergency services, and more through partnerships with local healthcare providers, transit, fire rescue, and community organizations. Its goal is to reduce isolation, improve access to care, and enhance quality of life for rural seniors while keeping them engaged and supported in their communities.
Learn More
For an even more in-depth look at the innovative work occurring in rural communities across the state to place seniors and their families at the heart of a community conversation, you can also watch a video here detailing how Connected Communities are meeting the needs and preferences that guide a collaborative care network.
Interested in learning more about Connected Communities? Contact Gina DiMaggio.
