MnCAAN provides services and programs that connect artists, organizations, and others engaged in arts and aging to activate the creativity of older adults and stimulate healthy, meaningful, and socially enriching lives. Our guiding principle is that older people can offer a substantial contribution to the artistic culture of a community by engaging in artistic activities – and they can enrich their own lives at the same time. Our main goal is to ensure that every older Minnesotan has creative outlets in the arts. To reach this goal, we:  Inspire older adults to create art Educate citizens, organizations, and public officials about the benefits of artistic self-expression for older adults Help organizations develop effective arts programming for older adults Help artists share their expertise through teaching and directing Showcase the work of older artists Link these groups to collaborate and learn from each other