About CARE

Aitkin County CARE, Inc. (CARE) was founded in 2010 and officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in February 2011 in the State of Minnesota. The organization is governed by a Board of Directors that provides oversight and strategic direction. CARE’s Leadership Team includes five members, and the organization employs ten Professional Caregivers and two Drivers who operate its Commercial Transportation Service. CARE holds a 245D license through the Minnesota Department of Human Services, is a contracted transportation provider with BlueCross BlueShield, and receives authorizations to deliver services for individuals on elderly and disability waivers living in Aitkin County.

CARE’s primary and most popular services are Homemaking and Respite Care, both provided by the organization’s Professional Caregivers. In addition, CARE employs a Registered Nurse who oversees the Toenail Clinic, a weekly service that remains fully booked months in advance due to high demand.

Notably, CARE is one of the only nonprofit organizations in Northeast Minnesota that owns and operates a commercial transportation fleet. The fleet is credentialed through the Minnesota Department of Transportation for Non-Emergency Special Transportation Services. CARE’s drivers are paid employees who complete mandatory safety training and maintain a current Certificate of Medical Examination to ensure the highest standards of care and safety.

CARE has a robust team of Volunteers who play a vital role in supporting its mission. Volunteers assist with delivering hot Meals on Wheels to clients in the City of Aitkin, perform household chores for older adults, and receive training as certified instructors for the SAIL (Stay Active and Independent for Life) exercise program, which is offered in four locations throughout Aitkin County.

CARE also hosts two Caregiver Support Groups in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association—one in McGregor and one in Aitkin—providing essential education and peer connection for family caregivers.

Local supporters include Jevne Township, Libby Township, Friends of Ham Lake, Glen Community Church, St. James Catholic Women’s Auxiliary, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Bethesda Lutheran Church, Lake Minnewawa Sportsmen Club, Disabled American Veterans Chapter #11 Aitkin, The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, and generous community members.