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About Northwoods Partners

Since its beginning in 2001, Northwoods Partners (NP) has evaluated and supported clients and their caregivers to help them to remain living independently in their own homes for as long as possible. In 2004, a program was started to provide transportation for older adults to medical appointments and for errands. In 2008, NP developed an exercise program that enhances the quality of life for older adults and helps reduce falls.

NP was recruited in 2010 to participate in a New York University research program to educate and enable patients with Alzheimer’s disease to remain living longer at home. In 2012 the Northwoods Memory Care program was created in response to a growing community need. In 2014, NP began partnering with other community health care providers to create more effective and efficient care for families dealing with types of dementia such as memory loss.

Mission, Vision, & Values

OUR MISSION:
Provide resources that promote independence and healthy aging

OUR VISION:
A community where people are able to age with dignity

OUR VALUES:
Compassion, Relationships, Dignity, Respect, Independence, Volunteerism

Funded by Grants and Gifts

Northwoods Partners is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is funded by grants and support from Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging, Dept. of Health and Human Services, Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital, Essentia Health, Lake Country Power, Medica Foundation, Northland Foundation, United Way of Northeastern MN, Victory Fund, and by generous donations from businesses and individuals.

Board Of Directors

  • Christine (Chris) Braun
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    Retired, Counselor, Vermilion CC
  • Heather Fitzgerald
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    Vice President, Community Lender, Highland Bank
  • Richard Flesvig
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    Retired, Banker
  • Sheila Gruba
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    Retired, Minnesota Department of Revenue
  • Evelyn Kuzma
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    Relationship Banker, Highland Bank
  • Walt Leino
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    Retired, Physician
  • Dave Nichols
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    Retired, Information Technology
  • Kathy Nieman
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    Retired, Psychometrist
  • Wendy Norcross
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    Retired, Hopkins School District
  • Caroline Owens
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    Retired, Certified Public Accountant
  • Abby Sirek
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    Clinical Pharmacist, Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital
  • Sid Thomson
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    Retired, Fed Ex Corporation
  • Mary Zupancich
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    Retired, Director of Public Relations

Staff

Lisa Porthan

Executive Director | Caregiver Consultant

I fell in love with Ely after working as a camp counselor and taking kids into the BWCA during my summer breaks from college. After I graduated from the University of Minnesota I was given an opportunity to work in Ely.

I feel so blessed to have created a wonderful life here. I met my husband Brett when I moved to Ely. We have two great kids, Adam and Lauren.

I am able to use my education and passion for making whatever positive difference I can in the lives of those I serve. I feel so fortunate to live in this  beautiful community filled with so many good people. 

Northwoods Partners changes lives everyday, including mine!

Heidi Vanderbeek, CHW

Care Facilitator

My name is Heidi Vanderbeek. I have lived in the Ely area since 2007 with my wonderful husband our three children cat and dog. I moved here the day after I graduated from high school and have never looked back ever since.

Being in Ely has been an incredible gift and to get to grow in this community is something you cannot find anywhere else. Community members truly value and care about one another, which encompasses my heart.

 I have always felt everyone deserves to feel happy and accepted no matter where their life path has brought them. To be that light for someone and to show them they are not alone. It’s truly a joy to work with an organization like Northwoods Partners who carries those same values.