The Crow River Senior Center is celebrating a landmark milestone: 20 years of service to local seniors.
The center was founded in June of 2005 when St. Michael granted it support for a proposed senior center. They formed a partnership with Hanover and Albertville and contracted with non-profit Senior Community Services to employ its first director, Joyce Flury. “The vision was clear: by serving seniors across all three cities, the center could offer greater opportunities and support,” says Adam Nafstad, City Administrator for Albertville.
The model proved so successful that the center quickly outgrew its original 900 square foot space in the St. Michael Colonial Mall. The cities partnered once again to build a new 5000 square foot space for Crow River Senior Center, which is now in the St. Michael Town Center Area.
On the partnership between the three cities, Hanover City Administrator Jennifer Nash says, “This level and variety of services would not be possible within our budget without the partnerships with the cities of St. Michael and Albertville, and the management expertise provided by Senior Community Services.”
"The center provides so many resources and social opportunities for seniors, and a sense of purpose. Many seniors who come to the programs also volunteer and help keep the programs running for others."
On the partnership between the three cities, Hanover City Administrator Jennifer Nash says, “This level and variety of services would not be possible within our budget without the partnerships with the cities of St. Michael and Albertville, and the management expertise provided by Senior Community Services.”
Since the center’s founding, it has continued to thrive and expand its impact. In 2024, the center offered approximately 750 programs, most at little or no cost to the seniors, thanks to the generous support of families and local organizations.
It has proudly served over 4,500 meals, helping to meet essential nutritional needs. Additionally, dedicated volunteers contributed more than 2,900 hours of their time to advance the center’s mission and enrich the lives of its attendees.
“The Center provides so many resources and social opportunities to seniors, and a sense of purpose,” says Center Director Jenny Teigen. “Many seniors who come to the programs also volunteer and help keep the programs running for others. There’s a real sense of community.”
Joe Hagerty, Mayor of St. Michael, holds the Crow River Senior Center’s success as a point of pride in his service as an elected official. “The Center’s continued growth and positive impact on the lives of our seniors stand as a testament to the commitment and dedication our area has for making our community welcoming for all ages.”
All are invited to celebrate at a 20th Anniversary Celebration on September 18th at Crow River Senior Center from 1:00pm – 3:00pm. A short program will take place at 2:00pm. No RSVP is required and light refreshments will be served.
Collaboratively written by Crow River Senior Center, Senior Community Services, and the cities of Hanover, St. Michael, and Albertville.
