Care Partners of Cook County is turning 10 this spring, and with it, celebrating a decade of helping elders stay connected and cared for close to home. What began as an effort to bring hospice to the region has grown into something just as vital: a network of support for older adults as they age and make choices about how they want to live.

Today, Care Partners supports hundreds of Cook County residents each year with a wide range of services. Offerings include care coordination, caregiver support, end-of-life care, education and advocacy, companionship, transportation, and help with chores. They also provide rides to medical appointments, as well as errands, social visits, and wellness activities.

The nonprofit’s approach is built on collaboration—with clients, families, and a network of community partners, including healthcare providers, schools, local government, and fellow nonprofits. Volunteers remain at the heart of the work, providing everything from friendly visits to help with stacking firewood. Staff care coordinators offer regular check-ins, connections to resources, and help navigating care decisions. 

With more than 30% of Cook County residents over the age of 65, the need has only grown in the past decade. With no local hospice and limited professional care services, Care Partners is filling critical gaps. Community volunteers and neighbor-to-neighbor support are often what make aging in place possible in rural areas like Cook County. Care Partners not only connects people to resources but also helps them identify and strengthen their organic support systems.

Public education is also a growing part of the mission. The organization regularly hosts workshops, discussion groups, Lunch & Learns, and roundtables on topics like caregiving, aging with dignity, and reframing cultural attitudes around growing older.

This summer brings new programming, including a grief support group and the county’s first Brain Health Fair - an interactive community event focused on cognitive wellness. A new pen pal initiative will also launch this fall, connecting fourth graders with older adults through monthly letters, fostering intergenerational connection.

To mark its tenth anniversary, Care Partners is hosting an open house and celebration on May 20 at its new location (615 E Hwy 61, Grand Marais). The event will feature live music, building tours, refreshments, and the unveiling of its annual raffle quilt. The theme—tin, the traditional tenth anniversary gift—was chosen for its symbolism of strength and endurance.

Like many nonprofits, Care Partners relies on a mix of state, federal, and community funding, some of which is currently uncertain. Staff emphasized that local advocacy and support are more important than ever to protect the programs that serve older adults and other marginalized populations.

Community members can support Care Partners by volunteering as drivers, chore helpers, or friendly visitors, or assisting with special events and office projects. Donations are always welcome, and ideas for new programs or collaborations are encouraged. “We don’t stop dreaming,” said Executive Director Julie Wilson. “And we’re always happy to have more people dream with us.”