This Thanksgiving season, as we gather with loved ones and reflect on all we’re grateful for, the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation is thankful for our elders and excited to help tackle challenges they face in rural areas of the state.

With a recent $1.8 million dollar investment, dispersed among three distinct rural communities, the “Connected Communities” project will help improve the lives of older adults in rural Minnesota. This transformative funding will empower the following communities to further their respective missions to serve seniors by helping those outside of their communities age in place with enhanced well-being, connectivity, and support:

• Guardian Angels Senior Living (Elk River)
• Bethesda (Willmar)
• St. John’s Lutheran Community (Albert Lea)

These three new communities join Vivie (Alexandria) and Perham Health (Perham) in developing more coordinated and holistic systems of support for older adults.

Creating Cohesive Community Ecosystems

Aging in rural areas presents unique challenges, but the Connected Communities project seeks to transform this experience by creating cohesive community ecosystems that support older adults in every aspect of their lives—physically, emotionally, and socially.

With this grant, each of these providers are poised to lead their communities in bridging gaps in healthcare, reducing social isolation, and streamlining communication across rural care services. Each has developed innovative projects that will build a stronger, more supportive environment for seniors and their families, enabling them to enjoy a vibrant, fulfilling life surrounded by the community that values and appreciates them.

Learn More

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