For far too many Minnesotans, the “golden years” are fraught with health issues, fear, and insecurity. Lack of affordable housing often tops the list of worries for the elderly.
“It all starts with an illness that lands them in a care facility,” said Lisa Dunn, a Realtor® with ReMax Results in Edina, and founder of Silver Closet, a non-profit organization that helps older people re-establish households during difficult transitions. “After they’re released, many of them have no place to go. They stay in motels or with family and friends, couch-jumping while they wait for an apartment to open in state-subsidized housing for the elderly.”
But the waitlists are long, Dunn explained, and by the time many seniors finally get that coveted apartment, they’ve given up most of their possessions because they can’t afford to pay for storage.
“So, they show up in their new home with a plastic bag full of ill-fitting clothes, and a pair of shoes on their feet. And that’s all they have in this world. These stories are way more common than I ever imagined,” Dunn said.
That’s where Silver Closet comes in. Established in 2018, the organization gathers used dishware, pots, pans, furniture, and other necessities, and donates them to seniors in need. As a Realtor® with a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation, Dunn is connected to many empty-nest and retired clients who are casting off possessions as they prepare to move into smaller quarters. Silver Closet offers a clean-out service to help these seniors downsize quickly and efficiently. Many of these items are reused for seniors in need.
Starting with her first job as a nursing assistant at North Ridge Nursing Home in New Hope, she developed deep empathy for the elderly. Although only 16 years old, she was determined to make a difference in their lives. Eventually earning an MA in Psychology and Consulting Services, she worked eight years as a licensed graduate social worker at Health East St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Paul before transitioning into consulting for Medica, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Allina.
As a sideline, she helped renovate and flip houses with her husband. Contemplating a new career in real estate, she consulted a business coach who gave her advice that was pivotal in her decision.
“If you’re going to be a real estate agent, don’t just be somebody who’s chasing transactions. Do something that you feel passionate about,” Dunn recalled the coach’s words. “It had to be meaningful to me. So, I knew I wanted to work with seniors.” That was over 17 years ago, and she’s been helping older Minnesotans ever since.
As an SRES agent, Dunn specializes in catering to the unique needs of older people as they prepare for major life transitions.
“My clients often feel overwhelmed and stuck. They’re not sure how to make the move even though they know they want to,” Dunn said. Providing a sympathetic ear, she takes careful note of their situation and develops a moving strategy that addresses every need, from financial to emotional.
“After working together for a few meetings, they gain this sense of empowerment. They know they can actually make the move, and it can happen in a way they feel good about.” Ultimately, Dunn said, this is the most gratifying aspect of her job; helping people whose horizons are clouded by doubt and fear and restoring a touch of gold to their elder years.
Visit Silver Closet to learn more about the charity and ways to get involved.
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