Spirit of Advocacy Award

Oct 18, 2019 by Danielle Andersen

Knute Nelson in Alexandria is a recipient of the Spirit of Advocacy Award from LeadingAge Minnesota.

The Spirit of Advocacy award is given to an individual or organization who makes outstanding contributions to advocacy on behalf of aging Minnesotans and the people who provide them with care in long-term care and senior living settings.

Minnesota’s fast-growing aging population has wide-ranging implications that will be felt at the state and local level, as well as by those who are aging, their loved ones and the dedicated professionals who provide them with care, services and support.

Recognizing the need to elevate awareness of the state’s role in meeting the evolving needs of the elderly and supporting the dedicated caregivers who provide safe, quality care, Knute Nelson has embedded advocacy within its organization’s culture. The organization hosts legislative forums and community events, engages community stakeholders, participates in an annual Day at the Capitol in Saint Paul and Washington, D.C., and regularly shares a first-hand perspective of what it means to live and work in long-term care settings through the voices of residents and staff. Through these efforts and more, Knute Nelson is making an impact on the future of long-term care in Minnesota.

“Knute Nelson ensures that staff, residents, families and volunteers all have the opportunity to build stronger connections with elected officials and policy leaders,” said Nancy Stratman, Chair of the LeadingAge Minnesota Board of Directors. “Through their voices, Knute Nelson is creating a stronger understanding of how laws enacted in Saint Paul affect not just long-term care providers but the people who live and work in these settings and the broader community as a whole.”

“We are honored to receive the Spirit of Advocacy Award from LeadingAge Minnesota,” said Mark Anderson, President and CEO of Knute Nelson. “This achievement is possible because of the work of the dedicated staff and board members, who take their responsibility to care for older adults very seriously. Advocating for the seniors who rely on us for care and working closely with our local elected officials to protect their well-being is essential to living out our commitment and our mission of ‘enriching lives’.”