Southwest Center

Location:  3612 Bryant Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota  55409
Days/Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Participants are: Ages 55 and greater

Fees:  Participants are encouraged, but not required, to become members for an annual membership fee of $10.  Some programs have small suggested donations to help cover costs.  These costs are noted in the Center newsletter. 

Contact: Mary Ann Schoenberger, Director
Program Phone: 612-822-3194
Email: mschoenberger@voamn.org

Volunteers of America of Minnesota Southwest Center offers a wide variety of programs, services and volunteer opportunities that support the health and independence of older adults.   The center strives to be a friendly, helpful place where seniors feel comfortable socializing and learning ways to enhance their health and wellness.  The center also provides opportunities for non-seniors to volunteer, learn and become partners in intergenerational activities.  Programs and services include:   Health and Nutrition Programs Educational and Cultural Events Volunteer Opportunities Caregiver Support Services DayElders, An Adult Day Service Social Work Services Please call the Southwest Center at 612-822-3194 for more information or to arrange a tour.

Health and nutrition programs: Senior Dining Program:  Hot nutritious meals are served Monday through Friday at Southwest Center.  Participants should sign up at least two business days ahead by calling 612-824-5512.  The recommended donation for people age 60 and older is $3 per meal, but participants may pay what they can afford.  A monthly menu is available. Exercise Classes:  Classes include Strength and Flexibility and Get Fit (which includes light aerobics).  The newsletter includes a complete listing of classes. Fare For All:  Provides low cost food to people who volunteer Monthly Food Shelf  (See the current newsletter for schedule.) Medicare Counseling:  Call 612-822-3194 for an appointment. Health Information and Screenings  (See the current newsletter for schedule.) Diabetes Club: Every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Educational and Cultural Events: Workshops: Workshops are provided on critical health topics such as cancer, heart disease and other wellness topics.  Brain exercise activities are offered to support cognitive health.  Additionally, opportunities to learn about our multi-cultural community are popular presentations.  (See the current newsletter for dates, times and topics.) Computer Lab and Computer Classes:  The computer lab is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  All seven computers are equipped with high-speed Internet access.  Adults age 55 and up are welcome to use the lab when there are not classes.  Computer classes take place on Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. See the current issue of the Southwest Center newsletter for the dates and times events, presentations and classes. Volunteer Opportunities: The Southwest Center offers many opportunities for individuals to make a difference at the center and in the community through volunteer work.  Volunteer positions include front desk receptionist, special event host, data entry, computer instructor, and more.  Contact us at 612-822-3194 if you are interested in sharing your expertise and skills, or for more information. Social Work Services: Southwest Center’s social worker can meet with individuals at the center or within the privacy of their own homes to discuss a variety of matters affecting well-being.  Typical issues include: Medicare and Health Care Issues Housing Options Financial Concerns Legal Issues For more information about Southwest Center’s Social Worker Services, call 612-822-3194.