The Power of Creative Aging November 14, 2011
View tpt's Emmy award-winning documentary about four older women artists in the Twin Cities who use their art to reflect on aging.
Hear Lucy Rose Fischer, one of the featured artists, talk about her work with paper collage. Pat Samples, (Minnesota Creative Arts and Aging Network) MnCAAN's coordinator, will talk about the creative spurt that comes with aging.
WHAT: The Power of Creative Aging, a film and presentation by Pat Samples and Lucy Rose Fischer
WHEN: Monday, November 14, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
WHERE:
The Kenwood
The Fine Arts Room
825 Summit Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Phone: 612-374-8100.
Free--Open to the public
Lucy Rose Fischer is an award-winning artist and author, who also has a background as a gerontologist. Her most recent book, I’m New at Being Old, which has a series of colorful collages, received a Midwest Book Award and an Independent Publishers Gold Award. Her art has been shown in over 50 exhibits and is on permanent display in public institutions and private collections.
To learn more about the Minnesota Creative Arts and Aging Network and creative opportunities for older people, visit http://www.mncaan.net/
Friday, October 28, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
RSVP Special Events & Opportunities Bulletin
November 2011
--Volunteer Opportunities--
For more info: 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@voamn.org
Feed Your Interest in Other Cultures
Interact with people from many cultures while helping them shop for culturally appropriate foods by volunteering at Neighborhood House’s food shelf.
When: Volunteer three hours, 9-12 or 1-4, Monday through Thursday.
Where: Neighborhood House Food Shelf, 179 Robie Street East, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Memorial Blood Center Blood Drive Canteen Host
Play an important role in the blood donation process helping to ensure the safety and comfort of blood donors once they have made their donations. Your friendly assistance will be welcomed as you visit with donors, serve snacks and beverages, watch for adverse reactions, and thank donors for their life-saving contributions. Memorial Blood Center holds numerous blood drives at churches and corporations each month. Pick and choose the locations and dates that best fit your schedule.
Neighborhood Family PartnerAre you interested in welcoming a new family to your community? Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers to partner with new Habitat homeowners during their first year of homeownership. Volunteers will share knowledge of local resources and homeownership during four home visits over the course of a year. A great way to build a relationship with a Habitat for Humanity homeowner!
Lend Your Support
Lend your support to caregivers. Volunteers are needed to provide relief to family caregivers in the homes of frail or ill elderly loved ones. Volunteers provide safe companionship and socializing for the care recipient while the caregiver is away. Training provided. Weekly time commitment is 2 – 3 hours.
Be a Thanksgiving Day Helper
Thursday, November 24th, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Prom Center in Oakdale
Help the Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly make Thanksgiving Day special—volunteer to drive elders to and from the Prom Center for Thanksgiving dinner, pick up meals and deliver them to elders in their homes or be a dinner companion to an elder at the Prom Center.
Help Low Income Families File Their Tax Returns
Did you know that one hour of time could put $2,000 in a family’s pocket? Interact with people from many cultures while helping them to prepare their tax returns! This is a great opportunity to practice skills and help your community. Learn more about how to help low income families file their taxes at any one of the AccountAbility Minnesota volunteer orientation sessions.
When: December 3rd, 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. or
December 10th, 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. or
December 12th, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Where: 2610 University Ave. W., Suite 450, St. Paul, MN 55114
Special Pals in Fun Friendships
Firts meeting: Friday, November 18th, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
(and continuing throughout the school year)
Somerset Heights Elementary
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118
Become an intergenerational friend to a second grader through SPIFF, a program matching older adults in the community to second graders for friendship, fun and mentoring. At the first event, held in November, students will meet adults to participate in activities that will nurture their new friendships. After they greet each other, the pals will have a sing-a-long, interview each other, complete a simple art project, play games, read together, and enjoy a snack. Pals are invited to come to the school once a month for moonlight bowling in the gym, fun projects in art or technology classes, and student presentations in the classrooms. Throughout the school year, pals write letters and send holiday greetings.
Walk to End Hunger
Thursday, November 24th, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota
Be a Hunger Fighter—raise a minimum of $100 by asking your friends and family to support your fundraising efforts and receive a free event T-shirt from the Twin Cities Hunger Initiative, a collaboration of hunger relief partner agencies that have developed a definitive plan to eliminate hunger in the Twin Cities by 2015. The event will include a Phone-A-Thon during the event to raise awareness and funding for the initiative, a Food Drive to collect non-perishable food items to be sent to Minnesota food shelves and a family-friendly Walk on Thanksgiving morning that offers the community an opportunity to participate together and contribute to this important and worthy cause. Volunteers also needed for set-up/take-down, water stations, greeters and the children’s craft area.
Support the Troops: Make a Difference Day
Saturday, November 12th, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Watertown, Minnesota
Join the Watertown-Mayer community as it participates in service projects to support our troops and honor veterans. Volunteers needed to assist with assembling care packages to send to troops overseas. Donation items also needed for the care packages; contact RSVP for a list of suggestions.
Sponsor a Family for the Holidays
Help bring holiday cheer by shopping for gifts for low-income families involved with Catholic Charities year-round programs. Thanks to generous donors, last year Catholic Charities was able to provide gifts for more than 6,000 individuals. Sponsors are provided with a wish list of items and asked to provide 2-3 gifts per family member. Gifts need to be dropped off at either the Minneapolis or St Paul warehouse in early December. You can also elect to shop for generic gifts or gift cards for emergency situations. Visit Sponsor A Family - Holiday Giving Program of Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis for more details or to sign up.
--Events of Interest--
Great Clips IMAX Senior Day
Second Tuesday of each month (10:00 a.m)
Great Clips IMAX Theatre, MN Zoo
12000 Zoo Blvd
Apple Valley, Minnesota
Movie at 10 a.m. but come any time after 9am for coffee, treats, and door prize drawings. Senior admission is $6 (some shows are more), with an opportunity to see a second film the same day for the same price.
Shaping the Mississippi River Trail Corridor
Tuesday, November 1st, 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Bonestroo/Stantec Inc.
2335 West Highway 36
St. Paul, Minnesota
Calling all bicycle enthusiasts! Come hear the news and share ideas regarding improvements to the Mississippi River Trail or MRT, an on- and off-road bicycle and related pedestrian trail system that will someday connect the Mississippi headwaters at Lake Itasca to the river's Gulf of Mexico outlet. In conjunction with local communities, MnDOT oversees planning and implementation for Minnesota's 500-mile stretch of the MRT. Currently, the trail is only partially marked, however MnDOT expects to implement a full trail signage system in the next year as well as many other improvements. A series of meetings is being held across the state to share revised plans for the corridor's route and related improvements, share ideas on how to capitalize on the trail as a source of tourism and economic development, and assess interest in a series of six targeted rides to highlight the corridor early in 2012.
The Dirt on Sediment Pollution: Water Quality in the Mississippi River
Thursday, November 17th, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Science Museum of Minnesota
120 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, Minnesota
Over the last year there have been many controversy-stirring films and dozens of news stories about the Mississippi's water quality problems. But what exactly are these culprits we keep hearing about — what is "suspended sediment" or a "TMDL"? And why are "excess nutrients" so bad for the river? Join the eminent and engaging Dr. Daniel Engstrom at this special FMR/Science Museum presentation as he answers these questions in an approachable manner and discusses solutions to the problems. This special presentation is free, however pre-registration is required and capacity is limited.
For more info: 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@voamn.org
--Volunteer Opportunities--
For more info: 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@voamn.org
Feed Your Interest in Other Cultures
Interact with people from many cultures while helping them shop for culturally appropriate foods by volunteering at Neighborhood House’s food shelf.
When: Volunteer three hours, 9-12 or 1-4, Monday through Thursday.
Where: Neighborhood House Food Shelf, 179 Robie Street East, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Memorial Blood Center Blood Drive Canteen Host
Play an important role in the blood donation process helping to ensure the safety and comfort of blood donors once they have made their donations. Your friendly assistance will be welcomed as you visit with donors, serve snacks and beverages, watch for adverse reactions, and thank donors for their life-saving contributions. Memorial Blood Center holds numerous blood drives at churches and corporations each month. Pick and choose the locations and dates that best fit your schedule.
Neighborhood Family PartnerAre you interested in welcoming a new family to your community? Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers to partner with new Habitat homeowners during their first year of homeownership. Volunteers will share knowledge of local resources and homeownership during four home visits over the course of a year. A great way to build a relationship with a Habitat for Humanity homeowner!
Lend Your Support
Lend your support to caregivers. Volunteers are needed to provide relief to family caregivers in the homes of frail or ill elderly loved ones. Volunteers provide safe companionship and socializing for the care recipient while the caregiver is away. Training provided. Weekly time commitment is 2 – 3 hours.
Be a Thanksgiving Day Helper
Thursday, November 24th, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Prom Center in Oakdale
Help the Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly make Thanksgiving Day special—volunteer to drive elders to and from the Prom Center for Thanksgiving dinner, pick up meals and deliver them to elders in their homes or be a dinner companion to an elder at the Prom Center.
Help Low Income Families File Their Tax Returns
Did you know that one hour of time could put $2,000 in a family’s pocket? Interact with people from many cultures while helping them to prepare their tax returns! This is a great opportunity to practice skills and help your community. Learn more about how to help low income families file their taxes at any one of the AccountAbility Minnesota volunteer orientation sessions.
When: December 3rd, 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. or
December 10th, 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. or
December 12th, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Where: 2610 University Ave. W., Suite 450, St. Paul, MN 55114
Special Pals in Fun Friendships
Firts meeting: Friday, November 18th, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
(and continuing throughout the school year)
Somerset Heights Elementary
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118
Become an intergenerational friend to a second grader through SPIFF, a program matching older adults in the community to second graders for friendship, fun and mentoring. At the first event, held in November, students will meet adults to participate in activities that will nurture their new friendships. After they greet each other, the pals will have a sing-a-long, interview each other, complete a simple art project, play games, read together, and enjoy a snack. Pals are invited to come to the school once a month for moonlight bowling in the gym, fun projects in art or technology classes, and student presentations in the classrooms. Throughout the school year, pals write letters and send holiday greetings.
Walk to End Hunger
Thursday, November 24th, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Mall of America, Bloomington, Minnesota
Be a Hunger Fighter—raise a minimum of $100 by asking your friends and family to support your fundraising efforts and receive a free event T-shirt from the Twin Cities Hunger Initiative, a collaboration of hunger relief partner agencies that have developed a definitive plan to eliminate hunger in the Twin Cities by 2015. The event will include a Phone-A-Thon during the event to raise awareness and funding for the initiative, a Food Drive to collect non-perishable food items to be sent to Minnesota food shelves and a family-friendly Walk on Thanksgiving morning that offers the community an opportunity to participate together and contribute to this important and worthy cause. Volunteers also needed for set-up/take-down, water stations, greeters and the children’s craft area.
Support the Troops: Make a Difference Day
Saturday, November 12th, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Watertown, Minnesota
Join the Watertown-Mayer community as it participates in service projects to support our troops and honor veterans. Volunteers needed to assist with assembling care packages to send to troops overseas. Donation items also needed for the care packages; contact RSVP for a list of suggestions.
Sponsor a Family for the Holidays
Help bring holiday cheer by shopping for gifts for low-income families involved with Catholic Charities year-round programs. Thanks to generous donors, last year Catholic Charities was able to provide gifts for more than 6,000 individuals. Sponsors are provided with a wish list of items and asked to provide 2-3 gifts per family member. Gifts need to be dropped off at either the Minneapolis or St Paul warehouse in early December. You can also elect to shop for generic gifts or gift cards for emergency situations. Visit Sponsor A Family - Holiday Giving Program of Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis for more details or to sign up.
--Events of Interest--
Great Clips IMAX Senior Day
Second Tuesday of each month (10:00 a.m)
Great Clips IMAX Theatre, MN Zoo
12000 Zoo Blvd
Apple Valley, Minnesota
Movie at 10 a.m. but come any time after 9am for coffee, treats, and door prize drawings. Senior admission is $6 (some shows are more), with an opportunity to see a second film the same day for the same price.
Shaping the Mississippi River Trail Corridor
Tuesday, November 1st, 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Bonestroo/Stantec Inc.
2335 West Highway 36
St. Paul, Minnesota
Calling all bicycle enthusiasts! Come hear the news and share ideas regarding improvements to the Mississippi River Trail or MRT, an on- and off-road bicycle and related pedestrian trail system that will someday connect the Mississippi headwaters at Lake Itasca to the river's Gulf of Mexico outlet. In conjunction with local communities, MnDOT oversees planning and implementation for Minnesota's 500-mile stretch of the MRT. Currently, the trail is only partially marked, however MnDOT expects to implement a full trail signage system in the next year as well as many other improvements. A series of meetings is being held across the state to share revised plans for the corridor's route and related improvements, share ideas on how to capitalize on the trail as a source of tourism and economic development, and assess interest in a series of six targeted rides to highlight the corridor early in 2012.
The Dirt on Sediment Pollution: Water Quality in the Mississippi River
Thursday, November 17th, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Science Museum of Minnesota
120 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, Minnesota
Over the last year there have been many controversy-stirring films and dozens of news stories about the Mississippi's water quality problems. But what exactly are these culprits we keep hearing about — what is "suspended sediment" or a "TMDL"? And why are "excess nutrients" so bad for the river? Join the eminent and engaging Dr. Daniel Engstrom at this special FMR/Science Museum presentation as he answers these questions in an approachable manner and discusses solutions to the problems. This special presentation is free, however pre-registration is required and capacity is limited.
For more info: 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@voamn.org
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Teach Your Art Form to Older Adults
Workshop for Teaching Artists, October 3
How To Teach Older Adults
The creative burst that older adults experience relates to their needs for legacy leaving, meaning, purpose, and belonging. This workshop is designed to help the teaching artist learn what works when teaching older adults - and why.
Presenters will share tips and techniques on how to work with older students who may have spent the majority of their lives believing they were not creative. They will also demonstrate activities and approaches that can transform individual stories and experiences into artistic expression.
Sponsored by: Springboard for the Arts
Location: Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale Ave. So., Mpls
Time: 6:30-9:00 p.m.
Presenters:
Pat Samples, MnCAAN Coordinator, who teaches older adults using multiple art forms including writing and theatre and who has coordinated 27 residencies with a variety of visual, performing, and literary artists in senior housing in the past two years
Anne Krocak, visual artist, who has a conducted numerous tile-making and watercolor residencies in senior housing and served as a mentor for other teaching artists
Cost: $45; $30 with discount code
If you've been wanting to to teach your art form in senior housing, senior centers, or other places that serve older adults, this fun, interactive workshop will introduce you to key information and skills and boost your confidence. Bring your questions and ideas to share too.
MnCAAN: Minnesota Creative Arts and Aging Network
763-560-5199
www.MnCAAN.net
artsandaging@mncaan.net
How To Teach Older Adults
The creative burst that older adults experience relates to their needs for legacy leaving, meaning, purpose, and belonging. This workshop is designed to help the teaching artist learn what works when teaching older adults - and why.
Presenters will share tips and techniques on how to work with older students who may have spent the majority of their lives believing they were not creative. They will also demonstrate activities and approaches that can transform individual stories and experiences into artistic expression.
Sponsored by: Springboard for the Arts
Location: Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale Ave. So., Mpls
Time: 6:30-9:00 p.m.
Presenters:
Pat Samples, MnCAAN Coordinator, who teaches older adults using multiple art forms including writing and theatre and who has coordinated 27 residencies with a variety of visual, performing, and literary artists in senior housing in the past two years
Anne Krocak, visual artist, who has a conducted numerous tile-making and watercolor residencies in senior housing and served as a mentor for other teaching artists
Cost: $45; $30 with discount code
If you've been wanting to to teach your art form in senior housing, senior centers, or other places that serve older adults, this fun, interactive workshop will introduce you to key information and skills and boost your confidence. Bring your questions and ideas to share too.
MnCAAN: Minnesota Creative Arts and Aging Network
763-560-5199
www.MnCAAN.net
artsandaging@mncaan.net
Monday, September 26, 2011
RSVP Special Events & Opportunities Bulletin
October 2011
Volunteer Opportunities:
To learn about these or other opportunities, call 952-945-4162 or email jkoschak@voamn.org
Feed Your Interest in Other Cultures
Interact with people from many cultures while helping them shop for culturally appropriate foods by volunteering at Neighborhood House’s food shelf.
When: Volunteer three hours, 9-12 or 1-4, Monday through Thursday.
Where: Neighborhood House Food Shelf, 179 Robie Street East, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Memorial Blood Center Blood Drive Canteen Host
Play an important role in the blood donation process helping to ensure the safety and comfort of blood donors once they have made their donations. Your friendly assistance will be welcomed as you visit with donors, serve snacks and beverages, watch for adverse reactions, and thank donors for their life-saving contributions. Memorial Blood Center holds numerous blood drives at churches and corporations each month. Pick and choose the locations and dates that best fit your schedule.
Neighborhood Family Partner
Are you interested in welcoming a new family to your community? Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers to partner with new Habitat homeowners during their first year of homeownership. Volunteers will share knowledge of local resources and homeownership during four home visits over the course of a year. A great way to build a relationship with a Habitat for Humanity homeowner!
Franconia Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area Planting Event
Saturday, October 1st, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
29836 St. Croix Trail
Schafer, Minnesota
Have a love of oak forests and songbirds? Then join the Great River Greening for this wonderful fall event planting oak seedlings to expand the bluff land forests and woodlands at Franconia Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area. These forests are prime examples of those that were along the St. Croix Valley 200 years ago and provide crucial nesting and migratory habitat for a suite of neotropical songbirds. After the planting, lunch will be provided at the unique Franconia Sculpture Park.
Seed Collection at the Sand Coulee/Rare Prairie
Saturday, October 8th, 9 a.m. – noon
Sand Coulee Scientific and Natural Area
Hastings, Minnesota
Enjoy a hands-on-seed identification and collection training while enjoying a rare example of sand-gravel prairie. Volunteers will be working in the newest addition to Sand Coulee Scientific and Natural Area. Seed will be used for further habitat restoration. Previous seed collection experience not required—all abilities and groups are welcome. This activity is very detail oriented. Capacity is limited.
Divorcing Divas
Saturday, October 15th, 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Minneapolis Marriott West
9960 Wayzata Boulevard
St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55426
Volunteers are needed for a variety of activities including registration, booth set-up, distributing prizes, selling raffle tickets, directing attendees, helping with evaluations and surveys. Volunteers will be registered for the event, receive a free lunch and will be able to attend a dance presentation and lessons by Arthur Murray Dance Studio at the end of the day.
This is a day of encouragement, inspiration and empowerment for individuals who are considering divorce, getting divorced or are divorced. A percentage of the proceeds from this event will go to the Tubman Group, a non-profit with shelters, education, therapy and many other resources for families involved in domestic violence situations.
Help Restore Riverside Park
Saturday, October 15th, 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Riverside Park, Mississippi River Gorge
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Join the Mississippi River Gorge Stewards at Riverside Park to help improve local wildlife habitat and watershed health by removing invasive species (such as buckthorn) and possibly assisting with watering and other restoration tasks. Work alongside ecologist Carolyn Carr, who developed the park’s restoration plan, and FMR River Stewardship Coordinator, Karen Solas.
Roseville Meals on Wheels Steak Fry Benefit
Sunday, October 16th, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Roseville Anderson Nelson VFW Post 7555
1145 Woodhill Drive
Roseville, Minnesota 55113
Are you looking to add some goodwill to your weekend? Roseville Meals on Wheels is hosting a steak fry benefit to raise money to support the delivery of meals to seniors in Roseville and surrounding areas --and is in need of volunteers to be meal servers, bus dishes, wash dishes, and staff the coffee and dessert stations.
River Gorge Buckthorn Bust
Saturday, October 22nd, 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Near 44th and West River Parkway
Mississippi River Gorge
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Join the Mississippi River Gorge Stewards volunteers to help remove buckthorn—the invasive species that degrades our local native plant communities and wildlife habitat—in the maple basswood forest in the Longfellow neighborhood of south Minneapolis. Volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to either pull or remove buckthorn and/or help to haul buckthorn to its pick-up spot. Tools and gloves will be provided. Be prepared to work on steep slopes and uneven terrain.
Three River District “Baker Boo”
Saturday, October 22th, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Baker Park Campground
2309 Baker Park Road
Maple Plain, Minnesota
Be a kid again. Help kids carve pumpkins, create scarecrows, play games and engage in other Halloween fun.
Second Annual Scott-Carver Project Community Connect
Help end homelessness in Scott and Carver Counties through Project Community Connect (PCC). PCC is a one-day, “one-stop-shop” event aimed at providing information and resources to individuals and families who are, or are at risk of becoming, homeless. Employment services, housing information, legal assistance, basic medical and dental care, haircuts, and more will be available at the event. Over 100 volunteers will be needed to assist with the event, doing everything from greeting attendees, escorting attendees around the event, serving lunch, assisting with set up and tear down, and more. Volunteers are asked to attend an orientation prior to the event at any of the following:
Friday, October 28th Minnesota School of Business Campus
Shakopee, Minnesota
Tuesday, October 4th from 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Safe Haven
13780 McKenna Rd NW
Shakopee, MN 55379
Wednesday, October 5th from 12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Scott County Government Center-- Board Room
200 West 4th Avenue
Shakopee, MN 55379
Saturday, October 8th from 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. The Rec Center
2310 Coulter Boulevard
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Special Pals in Fun Friendships
Friday, November 18th, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
(and continuing throughout the school year)
Somerset Heights Elementary
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118
Become an intergenerational friend to a second grader through SPIFF, a program matching older adults in the community to second graders for friendship, fun and mentoring. At the first event, held in November, students will meet adults to participate in activities that will nurture their new friendships. After they greet each other, the pals will have a sing-a-long, interview each other, complete a simple art project, play games, read together, and enjoy a snack. Pals are invited to come to the school once a month for moonlight bowling in the gym, fun projects in art or technology classes, and student presentations in the classrooms. Throughout the school year, pals write letters and send holiday greetings.
To learn about these or other opportunities, call 952-945-4162 or email jkoschak@voamn.org
Community connections (Non-volunteer Events)
Great Clips IMAX Senior Day
Second Tuesday of each month (10:00 a.m.)
Great Clips IMAX Theatre, MN Zoo
12000 Zoo Blvd
Apple Valley, Minnesota
Movie at 10 a.m. but come any time after 9am for coffee, treats, and door prize drawings. Senior admission is $6 (some shows are more), with an opportunity to see a second film the same day for the same price.
Vital Aging Network “Your Medicare: Making the Best Decisions”
Tuesday, October 11th, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Roseville Lutheran Church
1215 Roselawn Avenue
Roseville, Minnesota 551
Wednesday, October 12th, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Bloomington Civic Plaza
1800 W. Old Shakopee Road
Bloomington, Minnesota 55431
Open enrollment for Medicare benefits is earlier than usual this year: October 15 through December 7, 2011. VAN and Mature Voices Minnesota are partnering to provide an opportunity for you to learn about changes in Medicare and hear about options and costs from insurance providers. This forum will help you make informed choices. Pre-registration encouraged but not required.
Nordeast Big River Brew Fest
Saturday, October 15th, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Historic Grain Belt Bottling House
79 13th Avenue NE
Minneapolis, Minnesota
East Side Neighborhood Services and supporters: Surdyks, River Liquor and Sentryz are hosting the First Annual Nordeast Big River Brew Fest highlighting the beer history of the community with over 60 beers to be tasted, great food and great neighbors. All proceeds raised at the event will go toward programs benefiting low-income children, youth, families and seniors in the community.
Multi-Cultural Health Fair
October 19th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
VOA Park Elder Center
1505 Park Avenue South
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Seniors of all ethnicities are invited to attend the Park Elder Center multi-cultural senior health and wellness fair. The event includes blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings and other health education materials and resources.
Lake Phalen Subwatershed Neighborhood Action Program
Do you live in the Lake Phalen Subwatershed? Check to find out if your storm water runoff goes into Lake Phalen or some other lake and participate in the Lake Phalen Subwatershed Neighborhood Action Program. To find your subwatershed go to http://www.rwmwd.org/, hover over Education Program and click on “Find Your Watershed”. If you cannot pinpoint where you live from the map, call 651-792-7971 or email http://www.blogger.com/carrie.mack@rwmwd.org with your address.
Habitat for Humanity Housing Matters Book Club
When: First Thursday evening (7:00 p.m.) of every month for eight months, starting October 6, 2011
Where: Libraries, coffee shops, and independent bookstores around the Twin Cities
Join the Habitat for Humanity Housing Matters Book Club series for great company and great reading on topics related to housing, poverty, social change and the meaning of home. Pre-registration is required by September 30th. Space is limited.
To learn about these or other opportunities, call 952-945-4162 or email jkoschak@voamn.org
Volunteer Opportunities:
To learn about these or other opportunities, call 952-945-4162 or email jkoschak@voamn.org
Feed Your Interest in Other Cultures
Interact with people from many cultures while helping them shop for culturally appropriate foods by volunteering at Neighborhood House’s food shelf.
When: Volunteer three hours, 9-12 or 1-4, Monday through Thursday.
Where: Neighborhood House Food Shelf, 179 Robie Street East, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Memorial Blood Center Blood Drive Canteen Host
Play an important role in the blood donation process helping to ensure the safety and comfort of blood donors once they have made their donations. Your friendly assistance will be welcomed as you visit with donors, serve snacks and beverages, watch for adverse reactions, and thank donors for their life-saving contributions. Memorial Blood Center holds numerous blood drives at churches and corporations each month. Pick and choose the locations and dates that best fit your schedule.
Neighborhood Family Partner
Are you interested in welcoming a new family to your community? Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers to partner with new Habitat homeowners during their first year of homeownership. Volunteers will share knowledge of local resources and homeownership during four home visits over the course of a year. A great way to build a relationship with a Habitat for Humanity homeowner!
Franconia Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area Planting Event
Saturday, October 1st, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
29836 St. Croix Trail
Schafer, Minnesota
Have a love of oak forests and songbirds? Then join the Great River Greening for this wonderful fall event planting oak seedlings to expand the bluff land forests and woodlands at Franconia Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area. These forests are prime examples of those that were along the St. Croix Valley 200 years ago and provide crucial nesting and migratory habitat for a suite of neotropical songbirds. After the planting, lunch will be provided at the unique Franconia Sculpture Park.
Seed Collection at the Sand Coulee/Rare Prairie
Saturday, October 8th, 9 a.m. – noon
Sand Coulee Scientific and Natural Area
Hastings, Minnesota
Enjoy a hands-on-seed identification and collection training while enjoying a rare example of sand-gravel prairie. Volunteers will be working in the newest addition to Sand Coulee Scientific and Natural Area. Seed will be used for further habitat restoration. Previous seed collection experience not required—all abilities and groups are welcome. This activity is very detail oriented. Capacity is limited.
Divorcing Divas
Saturday, October 15th, 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Minneapolis Marriott West
9960 Wayzata Boulevard
St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55426
Volunteers are needed for a variety of activities including registration, booth set-up, distributing prizes, selling raffle tickets, directing attendees, helping with evaluations and surveys. Volunteers will be registered for the event, receive a free lunch and will be able to attend a dance presentation and lessons by Arthur Murray Dance Studio at the end of the day.
This is a day of encouragement, inspiration and empowerment for individuals who are considering divorce, getting divorced or are divorced. A percentage of the proceeds from this event will go to the Tubman Group, a non-profit with shelters, education, therapy and many other resources for families involved in domestic violence situations.
Help Restore Riverside Park
Saturday, October 15th, 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Riverside Park, Mississippi River Gorge
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Join the Mississippi River Gorge Stewards at Riverside Park to help improve local wildlife habitat and watershed health by removing invasive species (such as buckthorn) and possibly assisting with watering and other restoration tasks. Work alongside ecologist Carolyn Carr, who developed the park’s restoration plan, and FMR River Stewardship Coordinator, Karen Solas.
Roseville Meals on Wheels Steak Fry Benefit
Sunday, October 16th, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Roseville Anderson Nelson VFW Post 7555
1145 Woodhill Drive
Roseville, Minnesota 55113
Are you looking to add some goodwill to your weekend? Roseville Meals on Wheels is hosting a steak fry benefit to raise money to support the delivery of meals to seniors in Roseville and surrounding areas --and is in need of volunteers to be meal servers, bus dishes, wash dishes, and staff the coffee and dessert stations.
River Gorge Buckthorn Bust
Saturday, October 22nd, 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Near 44th and West River Parkway
Mississippi River Gorge
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Join the Mississippi River Gorge Stewards volunteers to help remove buckthorn—the invasive species that degrades our local native plant communities and wildlife habitat—in the maple basswood forest in the Longfellow neighborhood of south Minneapolis. Volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to either pull or remove buckthorn and/or help to haul buckthorn to its pick-up spot. Tools and gloves will be provided. Be prepared to work on steep slopes and uneven terrain.
Three River District “Baker Boo”
Saturday, October 22th, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Baker Park Campground
2309 Baker Park Road
Maple Plain, Minnesota
Be a kid again. Help kids carve pumpkins, create scarecrows, play games and engage in other Halloween fun.
Second Annual Scott-Carver Project Community Connect
Help end homelessness in Scott and Carver Counties through Project Community Connect (PCC). PCC is a one-day, “one-stop-shop” event aimed at providing information and resources to individuals and families who are, or are at risk of becoming, homeless. Employment services, housing information, legal assistance, basic medical and dental care, haircuts, and more will be available at the event. Over 100 volunteers will be needed to assist with the event, doing everything from greeting attendees, escorting attendees around the event, serving lunch, assisting with set up and tear down, and more. Volunteers are asked to attend an orientation prior to the event at any of the following:
Friday, October 28th Minnesota School of Business Campus
Shakopee, Minnesota
Tuesday, October 4th from 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Safe Haven
13780 McKenna Rd NW
Shakopee, MN 55379
Wednesday, October 5th from 12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Scott County Government Center-- Board Room
200 West 4th Avenue
Shakopee, MN 55379
Saturday, October 8th from 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. The Rec Center
2310 Coulter Boulevard
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Special Pals in Fun Friendships
Friday, November 18th, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
(and continuing throughout the school year)
Somerset Heights Elementary
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118
Become an intergenerational friend to a second grader through SPIFF, a program matching older adults in the community to second graders for friendship, fun and mentoring. At the first event, held in November, students will meet adults to participate in activities that will nurture their new friendships. After they greet each other, the pals will have a sing-a-long, interview each other, complete a simple art project, play games, read together, and enjoy a snack. Pals are invited to come to the school once a month for moonlight bowling in the gym, fun projects in art or technology classes, and student presentations in the classrooms. Throughout the school year, pals write letters and send holiday greetings.
To learn about these or other opportunities, call 952-945-4162 or email jkoschak@voamn.org
Community connections (Non-volunteer Events)
Great Clips IMAX Senior Day
Second Tuesday of each month (10:00 a.m.)
Great Clips IMAX Theatre, MN Zoo
12000 Zoo Blvd
Apple Valley, Minnesota
Movie at 10 a.m. but come any time after 9am for coffee, treats, and door prize drawings. Senior admission is $6 (some shows are more), with an opportunity to see a second film the same day for the same price.
Vital Aging Network “Your Medicare: Making the Best Decisions”
Tuesday, October 11th, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Roseville Lutheran Church
1215 Roselawn Avenue
Roseville, Minnesota 551
Wednesday, October 12th, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Bloomington Civic Plaza
1800 W. Old Shakopee Road
Bloomington, Minnesota 55431
Open enrollment for Medicare benefits is earlier than usual this year: October 15 through December 7, 2011. VAN and Mature Voices Minnesota are partnering to provide an opportunity for you to learn about changes in Medicare and hear about options and costs from insurance providers. This forum will help you make informed choices. Pre-registration encouraged but not required.
Nordeast Big River Brew Fest
Saturday, October 15th, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Historic Grain Belt Bottling House
79 13th Avenue NE
Minneapolis, Minnesota
East Side Neighborhood Services and supporters: Surdyks, River Liquor and Sentryz are hosting the First Annual Nordeast Big River Brew Fest highlighting the beer history of the community with over 60 beers to be tasted, great food and great neighbors. All proceeds raised at the event will go toward programs benefiting low-income children, youth, families and seniors in the community.
Multi-Cultural Health Fair
October 19th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
VOA Park Elder Center
1505 Park Avenue South
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Seniors of all ethnicities are invited to attend the Park Elder Center multi-cultural senior health and wellness fair. The event includes blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings and other health education materials and resources.
Lake Phalen Subwatershed Neighborhood Action Program
Do you live in the Lake Phalen Subwatershed? Check to find out if your storm water runoff goes into Lake Phalen or some other lake and participate in the Lake Phalen Subwatershed Neighborhood Action Program. To find your subwatershed go to http://www.rwmwd.org/, hover over Education Program and click on “Find Your Watershed”. If you cannot pinpoint where you live from the map, call 651-792-7971 or email http://www.blogger.com/carrie.mack@rwmwd.org with your address.
Habitat for Humanity Housing Matters Book Club
When: First Thursday evening (7:00 p.m.) of every month for eight months, starting October 6, 2011
Where: Libraries, coffee shops, and independent bookstores around the Twin Cities
Join the Habitat for Humanity Housing Matters Book Club series for great company and great reading on topics related to housing, poverty, social change and the meaning of home. Pre-registration is required by September 30th. Space is limited.
To learn about these or other opportunities, call 952-945-4162 or email jkoschak@voamn.org
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
RSVP Partner Helps Prevent Falls
Falls Prevention Awareness Day Is September 23rd
Did you know that every 35 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall? In 2008, about 2.1 million seniors were treated in the emergency room for falls and more than 550,000 of these patients were subsequently hospitalized. The total cost of all fall injuries for older Americans was $19 billion in 2000. By 2020, the annual direct and indirect cost of fall injuries is expected to reach $54.9 billion.
These statistics are staggering, but there are ways we can help prevent older adults from falling in their homes. For example, the Center for Disease Control lists home modifications, like installing grab bars and handrails, as one of the top four recommendations for reducing the risk of falls.
September 23rd is Falls Prevention Awareness Day, and Rebuilding Together is taking this opportunity to share information with the community about falls prevention and what we can do to help older adults live safely and independently in their homes.
Through our Safe at Home Program, we make minor home safety and accessibility modifications, such as installing grab bars and handrails, for low-income homeowners who are older adults (+55) or individuals living with a disability.
These modifications are provided at no cost to the homeowner and can prevent falls, enabling older adults and individuals living with a disability to continue to live safely in their homes for years to come.
If you or someone you know might benefit from our Safe at Home program, please contact us at SafeAtHome@RebuildingTogether-TwinCities.org or 651-776-4273.
To volunteer for this program, please contact RSVP at 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@voamn.org
Did you know that every 35 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall? In 2008, about 2.1 million seniors were treated in the emergency room for falls and more than 550,000 of these patients were subsequently hospitalized. The total cost of all fall injuries for older Americans was $19 billion in 2000. By 2020, the annual direct and indirect cost of fall injuries is expected to reach $54.9 billion.
These statistics are staggering, but there are ways we can help prevent older adults from falling in their homes. For example, the Center for Disease Control lists home modifications, like installing grab bars and handrails, as one of the top four recommendations for reducing the risk of falls.
September 23rd is Falls Prevention Awareness Day, and Rebuilding Together is taking this opportunity to share information with the community about falls prevention and what we can do to help older adults live safely and independently in their homes.
Through our Safe at Home Program, we make minor home safety and accessibility modifications, such as installing grab bars and handrails, for low-income homeowners who are older adults (+55) or individuals living with a disability.
These modifications are provided at no cost to the homeowner and can prevent falls, enabling older adults and individuals living with a disability to continue to live safely in their homes for years to come.
If you or someone you know might benefit from our Safe at Home program, please contact us at SafeAtHome@RebuildingTogether-TwinCities.org or 651-776-4273.
To volunteer for this program, please contact RSVP at 952-945-4162 or jkoschak@voamn.org
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Former RSVP Member Still Spreading Cheer
From the Star Tribune:
Who needs blogs when you have 'Morning Memo'?
Article by: GAIL ROSENBLUM, Star Tribune
.
Alice Thompson wants you to wake up to something "that's not depressing." So today's column is about ...
Alice Thompson.
Every Monday and Thursday since 2002, first on a PC called the I-Opener, and now on a seven-year-old Dell, Thompson has pounded out her lively missives to delighted readers from coast to coast.
"I didn't know I was talented, if you call it that," said Thompson, author of the "Morning Memo," which she calls MM. "I just knew there were things I wanted to say and I said them."
Thompson, who turned 92 on Sept. 6, will be saying them in her inimitable style on Sept. 15, when she pushes "send" on her 1,000th Morning Memo. This is what Thompson plans to write to mark the milestone:
"This is my 1,000th Morning Memo."
Thompson laughs. "I used to say that 1,000 would be the end of it. But I'm going to keep on."
Why not? Her fan base is growing. From 25 family members and friends, she now e-mails MM to more than 1,000 readers -- male, female, young, not-so-young. Take that, bloggers.
Add another 700 or so who read her in the Waubay, S.D., Clipper, under the heading, "Morning Memos by Alice Thompson." They're getting the edited version, though. "They sometimes take out my dirty jokes," said Thompson, sitting in the living room of her downtown Minneapolis condo, its walls featuring watercolors and framed embroidery.
MM began after Thompson had a hip replacement and the former world traveler (Denmark, Mexico, Paris) asked herself, "What the heck am I going to do now? I decided to do something that didn't require walking."
Something, too, "that would bring a little cheer to others," Thompson said.
MM started out "pretty corny," with tidbits about her daily doings: doctors' appointments, cleaning, shopping. Now it's filled with world news, politics, jokes, book and movie recommendations (see "Midnight in Paris"), weather reports, recipes and gentle mandates: "Go ye out to the farmer's market or grocery store, buy an ear of the wonderful Minnesota sweet corn."
She talks about her wheelchair, Jazzy, as though it were a treasured pet, and of her grandson's first steps. She quotes Gandhi and the Onion, shares contact information for a man who repairs RVs, and updates readers on the East Coast floods (via a daughter in Connecticut). She encourages readers to contribute, which they do.
"I play to my public quite a bit," Thompson said. That public loves her poetry, including this one:
Let that tree stand, proud/ Nurturing to struggling earth.
Let it not age and wither and die before its time.
Let it grow lovelier/With passing seasons,
Dropping tiny leaf messages to passersby:
"See this beautiful universe."
"Order is heaven's first law."
"There is a time for everything."
Let that tree stand, brave/ Ignoring lightning, wind and blight,
With each turbulence growing stronger,
Wisely using its power
Fitting sky to earth and earth to sky.
Let that tree stand,
A symbol generations can build their thoughts on,
Mute proof of Nature's total power over all.
Thompson was born in Waubay, the youngest of six children and the only girl. She attended the University of Minnesota, then moved to New York where she "dated almost every guy on Long Island. A sad batch," Thompson said. "Not a one with any get up and go."
She later moved to California and worked as a secretary and sang on military bases. Twice divorced, she has three grown children and that busy 1-year-old grandson.
Norma Gaffron, 79, of New Brighton, eagerly awaits Thompson's twice-weekly e-mails. She's never met Thompson, but feels she knows her. "She lets us into her life, as far as the ups and downs," Gaffron said. "She'll talk about politics, but she'll never rile you up. She is honest about her physical problems, but she never whines.
"I don't need Facebook," Gaffron said. "I have Alice."
You can, too. To join her mailing list, e-mail her at alicet@earthlink.net
Who needs blogs when you have 'Morning Memo'?
Article by: GAIL ROSENBLUM, Star Tribune
.
Alice Thompson wants you to wake up to something "that's not depressing." So today's column is about ...
Alice Thompson.
Every Monday and Thursday since 2002, first on a PC called the I-Opener, and now on a seven-year-old Dell, Thompson has pounded out her lively missives to delighted readers from coast to coast.
"I didn't know I was talented, if you call it that," said Thompson, author of the "Morning Memo," which she calls MM. "I just knew there were things I wanted to say and I said them."
Thompson, who turned 92 on Sept. 6, will be saying them in her inimitable style on Sept. 15, when she pushes "send" on her 1,000th Morning Memo. This is what Thompson plans to write to mark the milestone:
"This is my 1,000th Morning Memo."
Thompson laughs. "I used to say that 1,000 would be the end of it. But I'm going to keep on."
Why not? Her fan base is growing. From 25 family members and friends, she now e-mails MM to more than 1,000 readers -- male, female, young, not-so-young. Take that, bloggers.
Add another 700 or so who read her in the Waubay, S.D., Clipper, under the heading, "Morning Memos by Alice Thompson." They're getting the edited version, though. "They sometimes take out my dirty jokes," said Thompson, sitting in the living room of her downtown Minneapolis condo, its walls featuring watercolors and framed embroidery.
MM began after Thompson had a hip replacement and the former world traveler (Denmark, Mexico, Paris) asked herself, "What the heck am I going to do now? I decided to do something that didn't require walking."
Something, too, "that would bring a little cheer to others," Thompson said.
MM started out "pretty corny," with tidbits about her daily doings: doctors' appointments, cleaning, shopping. Now it's filled with world news, politics, jokes, book and movie recommendations (see "Midnight in Paris"), weather reports, recipes and gentle mandates: "Go ye out to the farmer's market or grocery store, buy an ear of the wonderful Minnesota sweet corn."
She talks about her wheelchair, Jazzy, as though it were a treasured pet, and of her grandson's first steps. She quotes Gandhi and the Onion, shares contact information for a man who repairs RVs, and updates readers on the East Coast floods (via a daughter in Connecticut). She encourages readers to contribute, which they do.
"I play to my public quite a bit," Thompson said. That public loves her poetry, including this one:
Let that tree stand, proud/ Nurturing to struggling earth.
Let it not age and wither and die before its time.
Let it grow lovelier/With passing seasons,
Dropping tiny leaf messages to passersby:
"See this beautiful universe."
"Order is heaven's first law."
"There is a time for everything."
Let that tree stand, brave/ Ignoring lightning, wind and blight,
With each turbulence growing stronger,
Wisely using its power
Fitting sky to earth and earth to sky.
Let that tree stand,
A symbol generations can build their thoughts on,
Mute proof of Nature's total power over all.
Thompson was born in Waubay, the youngest of six children and the only girl. She attended the University of Minnesota, then moved to New York where she "dated almost every guy on Long Island. A sad batch," Thompson said. "Not a one with any get up and go."
She later moved to California and worked as a secretary and sang on military bases. Twice divorced, she has three grown children and that busy 1-year-old grandson.
Norma Gaffron, 79, of New Brighton, eagerly awaits Thompson's twice-weekly e-mails. She's never met Thompson, but feels she knows her. "She lets us into her life, as far as the ups and downs," Gaffron said. "She'll talk about politics, but she'll never rile you up. She is honest about her physical problems, but she never whines.
"I don't need Facebook," Gaffron said. "I have Alice."
You can, too. To join her mailing list, e-mail her at alicet@earthlink.net
Friday, September 2, 2011
Expanded Senior LinkAge Line
Star Tribune Article: Help line expands aid for seniors
Warren Wolfe, Star Tribune
The state's premier information and referral service for older people and their families, the Minnesota Senior LinkAge Line, is broadening its reach, officials announced Thursday at the State Fair.
The phone service, which already answers more than 119,000 calls a year for help with medical and social services, began using Internet instant messaging Thursday, with 45 experts from 10 state agencies to answer a wider range of questions, Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon said at the State Fair.
"This makes us much more of a one-stop shop for older Minnesotans," said Jean Wood, executive director of the Minnesota Board on Aging, a state agency that administers the LinkAge Line.
On Thursday, Prettner Solon and Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson launched the new service, projected to generate about 20,000 additional calls annually.
In a demonstration, a LinkAge Line counselor exchanged messages with Human Services specialist Sarah Mashwaran to find out immediately how a caller with hearing loss can get free access to a specialized telephone.
Other departments on tap are Health, Education, Corrections, Labor and Industry, Natural Resources, Commerce, Veterans Affairs, Public Safety and Employment and Economic Development. Prettner Solon said the service will be expanded later to include volunteer and job opportunities for seniors.
In addition, consumers can initiate Internet "chats" with LinkAge Line counselors during business hours by going to www.minnesotahelp.info and clicking on "MinnesotaHelp Now" at the top of the page. About five people a day use that little-publicized chat service, in place for two years.
The statewide service is operated by the six regional area agencies on aging, with 45 paid counselors and about 300 trained volunteers, and is funded with $2.9 million in state and federal money.
To contact the LinkAge Line, dial 1-800-333-2433 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
wolfe@startribune.com. • 612-673-7253
Warren Wolfe, Star Tribune
The state's premier information and referral service for older people and their families, the Minnesota Senior LinkAge Line, is broadening its reach, officials announced Thursday at the State Fair.
The phone service, which already answers more than 119,000 calls a year for help with medical and social services, began using Internet instant messaging Thursday, with 45 experts from 10 state agencies to answer a wider range of questions, Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon said at the State Fair.
"This makes us much more of a one-stop shop for older Minnesotans," said Jean Wood, executive director of the Minnesota Board on Aging, a state agency that administers the LinkAge Line.
On Thursday, Prettner Solon and Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson launched the new service, projected to generate about 20,000 additional calls annually.
In a demonstration, a LinkAge Line counselor exchanged messages with Human Services specialist Sarah Mashwaran to find out immediately how a caller with hearing loss can get free access to a specialized telephone.
Other departments on tap are Health, Education, Corrections, Labor and Industry, Natural Resources, Commerce, Veterans Affairs, Public Safety and Employment and Economic Development. Prettner Solon said the service will be expanded later to include volunteer and job opportunities for seniors.
In addition, consumers can initiate Internet "chats" with LinkAge Line counselors during business hours by going to www.minnesotahelp.info and clicking on "MinnesotaHelp Now" at the top of the page. About five people a day use that little-publicized chat service, in place for two years.
The statewide service is operated by the six regional area agencies on aging, with 45 paid counselors and about 300 trained volunteers, and is funded with $2.9 million in state and federal money.
To contact the LinkAge Line, dial 1-800-333-2433 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
wolfe@startribune.com. • 612-673-7253
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