The Eden Prairie Senior Center received a Programs of Excellence award by the National Council on Aging (NCOA).

Every year through its National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC), NCOA honors the outstanding efforts made by senior centers across the nation to offer innovative, creative and impactful programs for older adults. These programs often serve as models for other senior centers to implement in their communities.

The Eden Prairie Senior Center’s “Grocery Delivery” program received honorable mention in the “Nutrition” category for its collaboration with local organizations to help home-bound seniors get groceries delivered during the height of the pandemic. Senior Center staff recruited volunteers from the Eden Prairie Fire and Police departments, Senior Community Services and PROP to identify needs and provide support. Volunteers from Assembly of God Church purchased and delivered the groceries.

As part of this emergency food program, Senior Center staff called individuals weekly to ascertain their needs and provide other resources. This dedicated outreach allowed vulnerable seniors to stay healthy, keep connected and avoid malnutrition or dehydration.

“Many at-risk members of our community were isolated and vulnerable because of COVID-19 but they were hesitant to ask for help. We were in a good position to reach out because they already trusted us,” says Senior Center recreation supervisor Sue Bohnsack. “I was honored to be part of the Eden Prairie community that stepped up to help.”

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is the oldest national organization focused on older adults. Learn more at ncoa.org.