Lyngblomsten volunteers Mrs. E.F. Wilke and Mrs. Henry Dahl prepare to hang bunting for the 1948 Mid-Summer Festival, helped by resident A.A. Hognestad, in this photo from “The Minneapolis Star,” June 18, 1948.

By Mara Gawarecki

As we look back at our 12 decades of history in celebration of Lyngblomsten’s 120th anniversary, we’re lifting up the legacy of volunteering that has undergirded our mission since the very beginning.

In the early days, the founding women and other members of the Lyngblomsten branches worked on the front lines themselves.  During the hunt for a suitable property to build the home, these women led the search.  They ran ice cream socials, quilting parties, lutefisk suppers, and a concession stand at the State Fair to raise necessary funds.  Once the first home opened, volunteers assisted with home maintenance, caring for livestock, and haying near the Lyngblomsten grounds as well as canning produce from their gardens and making jams and jellies for the residents.

After the reorganization of the branches into the auxiliary in the 1960s, volunteers continued to give generously of their time and talents.  Auxiliary members ran the annual rummage sales and baked cookies to sell for fundraisers.  They ran the gift/coffee shop and provided a social spark in residents’ lives at Lyngblomsten.

Today, volunteers continue to work in Anna’s café and gifts at the Como Park campus and at Sophia’s, Wally’s, and Mikelson’s Tavern at Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes.  They keep residents engaged throughout the day, and they help them move around campus by transporting them to appointments, activities, and worship services.  Others accompany participants as they navigate activities at The Gathering, a group respite program for those living at home with memory loss.  Still others serve on the board or committees.

From its earliest days to the present, Lyngblomsten has depended on the dedication of its volunteers.  With the help of its nearly 600 current volunteers, Lyngblomsten continues to enhance the lives of older adults today.  They spark joy in countless ways!