AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy

Posted on 12/12/24

Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.

Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.

As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.

This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the AARP Minnesota page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-advocacy-volunteer-information-session-virtual-mn-121724-3bnvm3scd3h.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-OUR-COMMUNITY-OUR-VOICE-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-INFORMATION-SESSION">Our Community, Our Voice: Advocacy Volunteer Information Session</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 17, 2024 at 10:30&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-senior-planet-disinformation-and-ai-virtual-mn-11525-pyn25d929n6.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TECH-LECTURE-AI-DISINFORMATION">Tech Lecture: AI & Disinformation</a></h2>
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
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		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
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		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SAINTPAUL-MN">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SAINTPAUL-MN">Renew</a> or 
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SAINTPAUL-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-advocacy-volunteer-information-session-virtual-mn-121724-3bnvm3scd3h.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-OUR-COMMUNITY-OUR-VOICE-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-INFORMATION-SESSION">Our Community, Our Voice: Advocacy Volunteer Information Session</a></h2>
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										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-senior-planet-disinformation-and-ai-virtual-mn-11525-pyn25d929n6.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TECH-LECTURE-AI-DISINFORMATION">Tech Lecture: AI & Disinformation</a></h2>
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					<p class="venue">Virtual</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-advocacy-volunteer-information-session-virtual-mn-121724-3bnvm3scd3h.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-OUR-COMMUNITY-OUR-VOICE-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-INFORMATION-SESSION">Our Community, Our Voice: Advocacy Volunteer Information Session</a></h2>
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										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-senior-planet-disinformation-and-ai-virtual-mn-11525-pyn25d929n6.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TECH-LECTURE-AI-DISINFORMATION">Tech Lecture: AI & Disinformation</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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<h2>Contact AARP <br />in the Twin Cities</h2>
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-advocacy-volunteer-information-session-virtual-mn-121724-3bnvm3scd3h.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-OUR-COMMUNITY-OUR-VOICE-ADVOCACY-VOLUNTEER-INFORMATION-SESSION">Our Community, Our Voice: Advocacy Volunteer Information Session</a></h2>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-mn-senior-planet-disinformation-and-ai-virtual-mn-11525-pyn25d929n6.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TECH-LECTURE-AI-DISINFORMATION">Tech Lecture: AI & Disinformation</a></h2>
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
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		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
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		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SAINTPAUL-MN">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SAINTPAUL-MN">Renew</a> or 
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SAINTPAUL-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">AARP Minnesota Welcomes Thomas Elness as New Director of Advocacy</h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/12/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>Thomas Elness has been appointed as the new AARP Minnesota Director of Advocacy. Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the needs of older adults.<br><br>Thomas previously served as the Director of Public Policy at the Alzheimer's Association. In this role, he led advocacy efforts, including investments in home and community-based services, the creation of the first State Alzheimer’s Plan, and securing historic investments in technology grants to support the elderly. His work in South Dakota allowed him to collaborate closely with AARP staff, volunteers, and our brand, fostering a strong connection and shared mission.<br><br>As the Director of Public Policy at AARP Minnesota, Thomas will be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, working to shape public policy and legislation that impacts Minnesotans 50-plus. He will lead initiatives to ensure that our legislative priorities are met, focusing on issues such as healthcare, financial security, consumer protections, and community support. Thomas will also collaborate with our dedicated volunteers and the community, leveraging insights and support to effectively advocate for the issues that affect the lives of older Minnesotans. To learn more about our 2025 legislative priorities, visit <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/minnesota/aarp-minnesota-2025">AARP Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Priorities.</a></span></span></p></div>
    
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP Minnesota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank">AARP Minnesota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<p class="venue">Virtual</p>
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				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/saint-paul-mn/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
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		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
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		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SAINTPAUL-MN">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SAINTPAUL-MN">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
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<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Minnesota Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
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<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
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<h2>Contact AARP <br />in the Twin Cities</h2>
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<div class="wrap">

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<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:mnaarp@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mnaarp@aarp.org</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/minnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Minnesota</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/contact-aarp-minnesota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SAINTPAUL-MN" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

</ul>
</div>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMinnesota" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpmn" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpminnesota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>

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