Victoria schedules May Community Connections week to serve older adults

Assistant City Manager Alysa Nelson briefed the committee on a proposed "Community Connections" week for older adults, scheduled Monday–Thursday, May 18–21, 2026 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Victoria Recreation Center.

Nelson said the multi‑day format replaces a one‑day senior expo and is modeled on a neighboring city's program to prioritize short, program‑focused sessions. "We're taking that and kind of making it our own and doing a Victoria flip on it," she said. Tentative daily themes include hobby/home programming, technology and tools, and fun and fitness; partners mentioned include the Carver County Historical Society, Carver County Environmental Center, Lowry Nature Center, Three Rivers and the Victoria Fire Department.

Nelson said technology help will be available, with IT Director Eric Shy providing digital‑literacy support and sign‑ups for insurance and membership assistance. "He will be stationed by to help people with whatever technology, phone, computer, laptop, tech help that they need," she said. The schedule also includes passive activities, Recreation Center tours, and a closing bingo hosted by Victoria Parks and Recreation.

Committee members discussed whether to host a vendor expo during the first year. Several members recommended focusing on programming in year one and acting as "ambassadors" on site to gather feedback. Nelson said staff will provide a rotation schedule so members need not attend every day and will circulate flyers and a web link to advertise the series.

Transportation to the events was raised as a potential barrier. Committee members and staff discussed local options identified by staff: Southwest Prime (discount rate), a volunteer service termed WCAB, and Metro Transit. Members suggested investigating circulator services or temporary shuttle arrangements and Nelson said staff will reach out to providers to explore availability and partnerships.

Nelson closed by noting the committee will receive a participation schedule in advance, staff will conduct an after‑action review following the week, and additional programming discussions (including older‑adult uses of the Downtown West public building) will return to the committee.