???? Save the Date! ????

Mark your calendars for the annual MASS conference in April 2026. Recharge, learn, and connect with your peers in the field of aging. Whether you’re diving into new ideas, reviewing past wins or obstacles, networking with peers, or just soaking in the quiet Northwoods vibe—this conference is for anyone passionate about serving adults 55+ in your community. You won’t want to miss it! 

2026 MASS Conference
???? Grand View Lodge, Nisswa, Minnesota
???? Conference Dates: April 16–17, 2026 (all day Thursday, April 16, half day Friday, April 17)
????️ Check-in: evening of April 15 

Conference Theme Sneak Peek:

• The 2026 MASS Conference is all about recharging your spirit, reigniting your passion, and reconnecting with purpose.
  • The MASS conference experience blends inspiration, learning, reflection, relaxation, and fun!
  • Filled with energizing sessions, thought-provoking discussions, sponsor showcases, and lakeside serenity- an optimal learning environment! 

Join MASS to engage with other staff from Senior Centers across Minnesota at our Annual Conference.

Here are some of our fun pictures and speakers from our 2024 conference.

Thank you to our guest speakers:

Colleen Fritsch: Dementia Friends

Colleen Fritsch has spent the last two decades of her career in aging services. She worked to engage community members in understanding, engaging and supporting the older adults in our communities. As part of this work, six years ago, Colleen became trained as a Dementia Friend Champion, helping Minnesota become a Dementia Friendly state. She has become a Dementia Friends Master Trainer, helping train other Champions nationwide to make this a Dementia Friendly USA.

Paul R. Blom: Understanding the Older LGBT Community and its Unique Needs & Barriers

Locally and nationally known advocate for older adults and the LGBTQ+ community, Paul received his Bachelor of Arts from Luther College and coursework toward his Master of Divinity at Wartburg Theological Seminary. Since 2001, Paul and his husband, Bob, have owned and operated Right at Home – In-Home Care & Assistance for seniors in the Twin Cities. Paul was among the founding board members of Training to Serve, the curriculum to train senior service providers on the unique needs and barriers of the aging LGBT Community. Paul is also a member of the boards of the Minneapolis Area Senior Workers Association, the Fall Aging Conference, and Avenues for Youth, USA.