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The Vital Aging Network (VAN) promotes the self-sufficiency, community participation, and quality of life of older adults.

VAN supports vital aging with monthly VAN Forums, the VAN Bulletin, the Leadership for Vital Aging Program, and by partnering with VAN Ventures.

The Vital Aging Network is organized around these core values (based on those developed by the Elder Advocacy Network in west central Minnesota):

• Self determination is central for the realization of civil and human rights.
• Everyone should be encouraged and supported in being as self-sufficient as possible.
• The vital involvement and integration of older adults in communities is necessary for individual and community health.
• Older adults are a community resource. Their productivity and contributions must be recognized, encouraged and supported.
• Communities should recognize and support the mutuality of interests across generations.
• Ageism is a pervasive form of bigotry that must be challenged.

VAN supports vital aging with these programs:

VAN Forum. The monthly Forum provides opportunities to learn about current topics and connect with people who share your interests. The Forum is held every second Tuesday of month from 10:00 to noon in various locations. Check out the schedule for this year’s forums.

VAN Bulletin. A monthly e-newsletter of what’s happening in aging. Take a look at past issues of the Bulletin, and subscribe to receive the Bulletin by email.

The Advocacy Leadership Certificate Program for Vital Aging (ALVA). This program provides an introduction to issues and opportunities related to vital aging and how you can make a difference. Participates develop plans for ongoing projects to promote vital aging that they can implement after the course .

VAN Ventures. VAN encourages social entrepreneurship by partnering with VAN Ventures. Individuals who have completed the ALVA program can apply to have their programs or projects recognized as VAN Ventures. There are currently three VAN Ventures:

• MYR, Inc., is the publisher of Mapping Your Retirement: A Personal Guide to Maintaining Your Health, Managing Your Money, and Living Well.
• Environmental Force is an organization focused on creating a healthy environment for future generations.
• The Minnesota Creative Arts and Aging Network (MNCAAN)is a network of Minnesotans dedicated to fostering the vital relationship between creative expression and healthy aging.