Elder Network Hosts Fall Fling Gala in Rochester – What To Expect in 2026
Millions of Americans are caring for someone that they love.
...and I am one of them.
A few years ago, I got a crash course in what the word "caregiver" really means when my husband became chronically ill. As his body was rapidly declining, the shift of almost all of the everyday responsibilities landed on my shoulders.
That alone...is a lot.
Add in coordinating appointments at Mayo Clinic, becoming the full-time driver, pushing him in a wheelchair when needed...cleaning, laundry, cooking, shopping, moving my kid to college 9 hours away...oh, and still working 40+ hours a week...I felt a level of exhaustion that only others in my shoes understand.
Most likely, none of us woke up one morning deciding to take on these extra tasks.
It just happens.
And if it does, you are going to be Googling and asking ChatGPT so many questions because you can't do this alone. You need help.
Elder Network Is Helping Seniors and Caregivers In Southeast Minnesota
Help is needed on so many levels, and thankfully, one organization in Southeast Minnesota is here for our seniors and their caregivers - Elder Network.
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Elder Network is one of those hidden gems in Rochester. This organization is vital to this community as programs and support are provided for adults 55 and older and their caregivers throughout Southeast Minnesota, including Olmsted, Wabasha and Winona counties.
Services like transportation, companion programs, friendly visiting, respite care, senior advocacy, caregiver support groups, education, technology assistance and more are all part of what Elder Network provides.
The goal is to help adults remain independent, connected and supported. And if you look at the number of people served by Elder Network, you'll see that over 4,200 participants each year have benefited from the services at this local organization.
And it isn't just about helping seniors. It is also about helping the people who love them, too.
You Can Help Elder Network At Its Fall Fling Gala
Volunteering for an organization like Elder Network area always options, but when you are already juggling work, family, and everything else, squeezing in time to volunteer might seem impossible.
But there is another way to help.
Elder Network's Fall Fling Gala is coming up in September at the Rochester International Event Center. And this isn't just another night out.
The Fall Fling Gala is Elder Network's largest fundraiser of the year, helping support the services that keep assistance affordable - and in some cases, free for those who need it.
Everything You Need to Know About Elder Network's Fall Fling Gala in Rochester, MN
WHAT: Elder Network's Fall Fling Gala
WHEN: September 19th, 2026
WHERE: Rochester International Event Center at 7333 Airport View Dr. SW in Rochester, Minnesota
COCKTAIL HOUR: 5:00 pm
DINNER: 6:00 PM
FEATURED SPEAKER: Dr. Deb Lightner, MD, speaking about the "Element of Play"
Guests can enjoy a cocktail hour, photo area, silent auction, dinner and program, live auction, live music by Sister & Company, and dancing.
And there's something new this year: a dessert dash.
GRAB YOUR TICKET TODAY: Tickets are available now and can be purchased easily online here. Hurry, registration ends September 1st.
The Role That Completely Changed My Life Three Years Ago - Caregiver
I used to think that the word "caregiver" was a title. But the last three years have completely changed the way I view that word.
That word is now me.
That word can also be a role that can slowly become every part of your life. And if you are in that role right now, I hope you know this:
You don't have to do it all by yourself.
Learn more about Elder Network and ways they can help at their website.
Do you have an event coming up in Southeast Minnesota?
Every year, we help the community in a variety of ways from supporting local fundraisers, to running daily public service messages, to creating digital community campaigns and hosting events attended by thousands. Learn more about how Townsquare Media Cares here.
If you have an event coming up or work for a nonprofit in Southeast Minnesota, I'd love to learn more! Send me a note at jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com or on my Facebook page - Jessica On The Radio.
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Gallery Credit: Jessica On The Radio
