History
As we age, managing our health, medical costs and basic needs can become more difficult. A single crisis, such as a fall or a diagnosis of dementia, can lead to life-changing decisions that are stressful and complex.
Nearly a million Minnesotans are age 65 and over. In 2015, about 20 percent lived alone. Today, 18,000 Minnesota dementia patients live alone. Many older adults and their caregivers have nowhere to turn for help overcoming the challenges of aging and catastrophic events.
START has served more than 3,000 clients and put more than $1 million in benefits in the hands of struggling seniors. We are a recent recipient of Community Partner Award from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and continue supporting aging research as a member of the Center for Healthy Aging and Innovation team.
In addition to our work with seniors and caregivers, our team has devoted years working to solve the systemic problems that lead to the gaps in care and services we help bridge. Team members have served on the Minnesota Board of Aging, the Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care, the Long-Term Care ReThink Tank and in direct care.
Strategic Priorities
Building on three years of staff and financial growth, in 2023 we are focused on: 1.) Developing a sustainable financial model; 2.) Improving team operations and communications; 3.) Increasing awareness of START with target audiences emphasizing expertise; and 4.) Expanding Respite Friends training delivery capacity
Annual Budget: $356,000 – Earned Income, Foundations, Individual Contributions, Government Grants, Contracts
Skills
START Senior Solutions is seeking board members with skills in the following areas:
- Financial Management
- Legal
- Strategic and Business Planning
- Technology
Information
- Number of members currently: 4
- Meeting time and frequency: 6 meetings annually
- Meeting location: Western Suburbs
- Does nonprofit carry liability insurance? Yes
Expectations
- Time Expectation: Up to 5 hours/month
- Financial Contribution Required: Yes
- Service on Committee Required: Yes
- Committees: Executive, Fundraising
- Length of Term: 3 Years
- Renewable: Yes