NISC Programs of Excellence 

• Year Awarded: 2025
• Programs of Excellence Name: Embrace Solitude and Thrive
• Hosting Organization: City of St. Cloud Whitney Senior Center, Minnesota
• St. Cloud Population: 68,000
• 60+ Population: 14,500
• Senior Center Members: 1,500

About Embrace Solitude and Thrive

The Whitney Senior Center's Embrace Solitude & Thrive – Solo Agers Monthly Meetup has provided a vital community resource for older adults who live independently without nearby partners or children. Held in person on the second Monday of each month from 1-2:30 p.m., the program offers a welcoming and supportive space for solo agers to connect, share experiences, and work toward personal goals.

The sessions focus on three core areas essential to thriving as a solo ager: financial planning, health and well-being, and fostering meaningful social connections. Participants have found value in the group’s emphasis on practical tools and peer support, enabling them to navigate the challenges of aging independently with confidence and resilience.

"This initiative has proven successful in reducing social isolation among solo agers and encouraging proactive approaches to aging," said Whitney Senior Center Wellness Coordinator Tracy Larsen. "The program's outcomes align with the center's objectives of promoting well-being, community engagement, and the empowerment of older adults to live fulfilling,independent lives.

"Each month, a group discussion and topic is covered. Our group leader created a role play opportunity for the members which prompted great discussion on making social connections in different scenarios. We average 12-15 in attendance each month.

The group started in January of 2024 and continues to have interest and engagement to continue.

"We use the curriculum of "The Backup Plan" and then continued with Carol Marak's curriculum in the summer and fall sponsored by the Central Minnesota Council on Aging," Larsen said. "We have been using Carol Marak's "Solo and Smart" program at the Whitney Senior Center to bring our Solo Agers together, and it has been transformative.

The program has helped participants build meaningful social connections, discover more about themselves, and significantly reduce feelings of isolation."

"Our facilitator has found the curriculum to be an incredible asset," Larsen said. "The Life Plan Assessment, worksheets, and PowerPoints provide structured and engaging topics for each monthly session, making it easier to foster discussion and support among our Solo Agers. This program truly helps build a community of support for those navigating life independently."

Key takeaways from  Embrace Solitude and Thrive:

• The program successfully reduces social isolation among solo agers by providing a regular, supportive space for people to connect with peers, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships.
• Through structured curricula and resources, participants gain valuable knowledge in key areas such as financial planning, health, and well-being, empowering them to navigate aging independently with confidence.
• The program creates an environment where participants can engage in open discussions and role-playing activities, fostering peer support and enhancing their social skills, which ultimately helps them thrive in their later years.

About the City of St. Cloud Whitney Senior Center

Whitney Senior Center was founded in 1977 and "strives to promote the holistic well-being of all people 55+ in the greater St. Cloud area by providing opportunities for social interaction, recreation, and education. We engage, enrich, and empower the diverse interests and needs of people with dignity, innovation, and joy." Offerings include social, recreational, and educational activities such fitness classes, nutrition and wellness workshops, and technology labs. WSC's Director provides leadership and administration, and  a Wellness Coordinator manages the wellness/evidence-based workshops, and markets, enrolls, and oversees workshop data management. Community health workers serve as liaisons between communities and health care agencies, provide evidence-based programming to community residents and caregivers, enhance community residents' ability to effectively communicate with health care providers, provide culturally and linguistically appropriate health education and prevention, advocate for individual and community health, and work closely with Senior LinkAge Line to provide referral and coordination.