Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (DBA Trellis)

Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging, Inc., operating as Trellis, is a nonprofit organization aiming to enhance the well-being of older adults through innovative services and partnerships. Located in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, Trellis serves as the Area Agency on Aging for seven Minnesota counties: Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington.

Mission

Trellis is dedicated to assisting individuals in aging well and developing community capacities to support aging populations. The organization's mission emphasizes optimizing health and well-being for older adults and their care partners[4].

Services and Partnerships

Trellis provides a range of services and partnerships focused on improving older adults' quality of life. These include administering federal funding under the Older Americans Act to support community services such as home-delivered meals, transportation, caregiver support, and respite care[3]. The organization collaborates with community-based organizations, healthcare entities, and government units to ensure equity and inclusivity in older adult services.

Programs and Innovations

Trellis offers educational and informational programs, including classes and presentations, to empower older adults and their families. These programs cover topics such as Medicare education, fraud prevention, and dementia support[3]. The organization is committed to hearing the voices of older adults and incorporating their insights into its strategic direction and service offerings.

Name Change

In March 2021, Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging changed its name to Trellis. This rebranding reflected the organization's expanded mission and commitment to supporting aging populations beyond its original boundaries[1]. Trellis now connects and improves lives across Minnesota and in ten other states, while maintaining its role as a regional leader in aging services.

Financial Overview

Trellis administers significant funding annually, distributing over $12 million in 2023 alone to support critical services for older adults and caregivers[3]. Through its grantmaking activities, Trellis reinforces its mission to enhance the dignity and independence of older adults in the communities it serves.

Governance and Operations

Details about the governance structure and specific personnel of Trellis are not publicly disclosed in available resources. However, its operations focus on building relationships with community partners, healthcare providers, and governmental units to foster comprehensive support systems for aging populations[4].