Counseling Referrals
Community Services in the Mankato Area
VINE Faith in Action promotes quality of life and culture of caring, sustained by volunteerism, community engagement, and support for neighbors in need. VINE's services help to keep people in Blue Earth and Nicollet county healthy and comfortable and living in their own home for as long as it's safe and reasonable to do so.
Community Support Groups
ADHD PARENT SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for parents of children of any age who have ADHD.
MEETS: third Wednesday of each month (Sept.-May). IS J Clinic East Ridge Conference Room from 5:15-6:30pm.
CONTACT PERSON: ISJ Clinic – East Ridge at 507-385-6500
ALS SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for any person with ALS, their family, friends, caregivers and any person who has lost a loved one to ALS.
MEETS: The last Tuesday of each month, Autumn Grace Assisted Living(118 Raven Court, Mankato) from 3:30-5pm.
CONTACT PERSON: Jennifer Myhre at 888-672-0484(toll free)
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP
A support group for families, friends and interested people, for support and information on caring for individuals with memory loss.
MEETS: first Thursday of each month, Laurel’s Edge Parol (77 Stadium Road, Mankato) at 4p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Mary Milbrath at 507-387-2133
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
For all persons living with cancer and their friends and families. A place to bring your questions, concerns, frustrations and hope.
MEETS: Second Wednesday of each month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s Lower Level Conference Center, Room 0308 from 5-6:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Linda Javens at 507-327-7104
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for anyone caring for a person with progressive illness such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease.
MEETS: Fourth Wednesday of each month from 1:30-3pm, VINE Adult Community Center, 421 East Hickory Street, Mankato.
CONTACT PERSON: Mary Wichtendahl 507-386-5577
COLITIS SUPPORT GROUP
MEETS: first Tuesday of each of month (September- May). Holy Rosary Parish Building (North Mankato) from 6:30 – 8p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please call JoAnn Schlosser, 507-345-8781 or CCFA at 888-422-3266
COMMUNITY CPR/ AED CLASS
MEETS: various times through calendar year, ISJ Education and Training Center (Mankato) various times.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please call Amy Conner, Health Promotion Manager at 507-385-4645
COMMUNITY CPR/AED CLASS
MEETS: various times throughout calendar year ISJ Education and Training Center, Madison East Center (Mankato)various times.
CONTACT PERSON:FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL AMY CONNER, Health Promotion Manger AT 507-385-4645
DIABETES EDUCATION SUPPORT GROUP
A support and education group to assist those managing their diabetes. Families and friends welcome
MEETS: fourth Monday of Feb, Apr, June, Aug, Oct & Dec Immanual St. Joseph’s Lower Level Conference Center, Room 0310 at 2p.m.
MEETS: fourth Wednesday of Jan., Mar., May, July, Sept., & Nov. Immanuel St. Joseph”s Lower Level Conference Room C, 6:30-7:30pm.
CONTACT PERSON: Sheryl Peterson at 507-385-2607
MEETS: third Wednesday of every other month (Jan, Mar.,July, Sep., Nov.) at Waseca Medical Center, Conference Room C, 6:30-7:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Sue Seykora at 507-837-4267
DIANE HOPE WOMEN’S CANCER GROUP
All women living with cancer are welcome to attend.
MEETS: first Tuesday of each month, Christ the King Lutheran Church (207) McConnel in Mankato) from 6-7:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Shirely at 507-387-6916
GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for anyone dealing with grief and loss. Sharing experience with others can often help manage the pain that is a natural part of grieving the many losses in our lives.
MEETS: First and Third Wednesdays of each month from 1:30-3pm, VINE Adult Community Center, 421 East Hickory Street, Mankato.
CONTACT: Sister Joyce Kolbet 507-386-5583 or Carol Ries 507-386-5571
HEALTHY BREAKFAST BUNCH (Caregiver Support)
VINE offers a monthly caregiving program for people caring for an elderly family member or friend. Each session includes a guest speaker, facilitated discussion time and refreshments. Volunteer respite care and transportation are available upon request.
MEETS: second Wednesday of each month at the Summit (518 S 5Th Street, Mankato) from 8:30-10a.m.
CONTACT PERSON: For additional information or to register Call Mary O. or Mary W. at 507-387-1666
HEART-TO-HEART SUPPORT GROUP
An educational program for people with heart disease. Family and friends welcome
MEETS: fourth Monday of every month, Immanual St. Joseph’s Lower Level Conference Center, Rooms0308 & 0310 from 7 -8 p.m. (Feb., April, June. Aug., Oct, & Dec.)
CONTACT PERSON: cardiac Rehab at 507-385-2607
LA LECH LEAGUE
Information and support for women who are breastfeeding.
MEETS: fourth Tuesday of each month (January- October) Immanual St. Joseph’s Lower level Conference Center, Room 0308 at 6:30p.m.
(Call for dates/times/ during November and December)
CONTACT PERSON: Rachel at 507-625-7134
LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP
MEETS: third Thursday of each month (no summer meeting) at 2.p.m. and 7.p.m.Call for meeting location.
CONTACT PERSON: Nadine Sandon, 507-345-8950 or Diane Beyer, 507-388-8991
MEMORY SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for those who have been diagnosed with a cognitive impairment or for anyone who has questions about their memory. Family caregivers are also welcome to attend.
MEETS: Second Thursday of each month from 10-11:30am, VINE Adult Community Center, 421 East Hickory Street, Mankato
CONTACT PERSON: Mary Wichtendahl 507-386-5577
MS SELF HELP SUPPORT GROUP
The MS Self Help Support Group shares a belief that positive personal change happens through individual efforts of others. Members can gain more information and strategies for confronting problems they may encounter and find reassurance and support from others with similar life experiences.
MEETS: second Thursday of each month, Immanual St. Joseph’s, Physical Theraphy, Madison East Center, from 7-8p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Brenda Fruhwirth at 507-385-2600, ext.2414
MS SELF HELP SUPPORT GROUP
The MS Self Help Support Group shares a belief that positive personal change happens through individual efforts with the support of others. Members can gain more information and strategies for confronting problems they may encounter and find reassurance and confronting problems they may encounter and find reassurance and support from others with similar life experiences.
MEETS: second Thursday of each month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s, Physical Therapy, Madison East Center, from 7-8pm.
CONTACT PERSON: Brenda Fruhwirth at 507-385-2600, ext. 2414
MS SUPPORT GROUP
Small group of people with MS and their family members who get together to share and support one another for the benefit of the whole group. The purpose of the group is to provide mutual sharing and support for people with MS> Groups may also invite professionals to present related resource information at meetings.
MEETS: third Monday of each month, Waseca Medical Center, New Conference Room from 7- 8:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Cindy Lewer, at 507-833-4003
PULMONARY REHABILITATION
A group program with individualized goals for people with lung disease. (provider referral)
CONTACT PERSON: For more information or to register, call Mobile at 507-385-5605. Cost will vary.
SOUTH CENTER OSTOMY MINNESOTA SUPPORT GROUP
A support group to provide education and social opportunity for those with ostomies. Family members welcome.
MEETS: third Thursday of February, April, June and October, Mankato clinic conference Room at 7:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Edward Schaus, 507-934-2089
SOUTH CENTRAL MN PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
Support group for those with Parkinson;s, family, friends and health care professionals.
MEETS: third Tuesday of each month(March- December) United Church of Christ (Stoltzman and Staduim) at 2 p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Irene at 507-380-2307
Special individual support available for those with Parkinson’s.
SLEEP APNEA SUPPORT GROUP
A.W.A.K.E. is a national support group for those who suffer from Sleep Apnea.
MEETS: third Monday of every month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s, Lower Level Conference center, Room 0308 at 5:15p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Susan Schweim at 507-245-3390
S.T.O.P. SMOKING GROUPS
Program provides treatment for individuals who require interventions regarding their use of nicotime products. Participants must attend five sessions.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please call 507-385-4662
SUICIDE SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP
A suicide survivor support has formed in our area. Have you lost a friend or loved one to suicide? This group provides support and information.
MEETS: second Thursday of each month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s Lower level Conference Center, Room 0312 at 7p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Marlene Buker at 507-388-5313
WEAVERS SUPPORT GROUP
A support group for people over 60 who grieve the loss of a spouse.
MEETS: Every Thursday, Christ the King Lutheran Church (207 McConnell, Mankato) from 10-11:30a.m.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please contact 507-385-2989 or 800-327-3821 ext. 2989 (toll free)
WINDJAMMERS SUPPORT GROUP
This group offers support for people who suffer from chronic lung disease, asthma, emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Family and friends welcome.
MEETS: third Thursday of every month (March-December) Immanuel St. Joseph, Lower Level Conference center, Room0310 at 2p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Mollie at 507-385-5605
- Habitat for Humanity of South Central Minnesota
Habitat for Humanity of South Central Minnesota would like to encourage any willing volunteers to serve with us in the fight against poverty housing. We are seeking skilled and semi-skilled individuals to assist us in the construction of our homes. If there are any interested individuals who have experience in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, general contracting, etc., please consider joining Habitat a few days per month.
VINE Faith in Action promotes quality of life and culture of caring, sustained by volunteerism, community engagement, and support for neighbors in need. VINE's services help to keep people in Blue Earth and Nicollet county healthy and comfortable and living in their own home for as long as it's safe and reasonable to do so.
- Salvation Army Mankato Corps
Provides shelter for men in the winter and noon meals all year, clothing vouchers, emergency food, after school program.
- Theresa House
Theresa House is interim housing for homeless families and single moms.
- ECHO Food Shelf
The Emergency Community Help Organization (ECHO) provides emergency food assistance to people in Blue Earth County and North Mankato.
- Catholic Charities – Mankato
Counseling for pregnancy, parenting, adoption etc.
- Birthright of Mankato
Caring and support for women distressed by an unplanned pregnancy.
- Lutheran Social Services Youth Services
Supports youth up to the age of 17 who are homeless or are experiencing conflict at home and are unable to stay with their family.
Community Support Groups
ADHD PARENT SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for parents of children of any age who have ADHD.
MEETS: third Wednesday of each month (Sept.-May). IS J Clinic East Ridge Conference Room from 5:15-6:30pm.
CONTACT PERSON: ISJ Clinic – East Ridge at 507-385-6500
ALS SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for any person with ALS, their family, friends, caregivers and any person who has lost a loved one to ALS.
MEETS: The last Tuesday of each month, Autumn Grace Assisted Living(118 Raven Court, Mankato) from 3:30-5pm.
CONTACT PERSON: Jennifer Myhre at 888-672-0484(toll free)
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP
A support group for families, friends and interested people, for support and information on caring for individuals with memory loss.
MEETS: first Thursday of each month, Laurel’s Edge Parol (77 Stadium Road, Mankato) at 4p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Mary Milbrath at 507-387-2133
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
For all persons living with cancer and their friends and families. A place to bring your questions, concerns, frustrations and hope.
MEETS: Second Wednesday of each month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s Lower Level Conference Center, Room 0308 from 5-6:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Linda Javens at 507-327-7104
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for anyone caring for a person with progressive illness such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease.
MEETS: Fourth Wednesday of each month from 1:30-3pm, VINE Adult Community Center, 421 East Hickory Street, Mankato.
CONTACT PERSON: Mary Wichtendahl 507-386-5577
COLITIS SUPPORT GROUP
MEETS: first Tuesday of each of month (September- May). Holy Rosary Parish Building (North Mankato) from 6:30 – 8p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please call JoAnn Schlosser, 507-345-8781 or CCFA at 888-422-3266
COMMUNITY CPR/ AED CLASS
MEETS: various times through calendar year, ISJ Education and Training Center (Mankato) various times.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please call Amy Conner, Health Promotion Manager at 507-385-4645
COMMUNITY CPR/AED CLASS
MEETS: various times throughout calendar year ISJ Education and Training Center, Madison East Center (Mankato)various times.
CONTACT PERSON:FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL AMY CONNER, Health Promotion Manger AT 507-385-4645
DIABETES EDUCATION SUPPORT GROUP
A support and education group to assist those managing their diabetes. Families and friends welcome
MEETS: fourth Monday of Feb, Apr, June, Aug, Oct & Dec Immanual St. Joseph’s Lower Level Conference Center, Room 0310 at 2p.m.
MEETS: fourth Wednesday of Jan., Mar., May, July, Sept., & Nov. Immanuel St. Joseph”s Lower Level Conference Room C, 6:30-7:30pm.
CONTACT PERSON: Sheryl Peterson at 507-385-2607
MEETS: third Wednesday of every other month (Jan, Mar.,July, Sep., Nov.) at Waseca Medical Center, Conference Room C, 6:30-7:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Sue Seykora at 507-837-4267
DIANE HOPE WOMEN’S CANCER GROUP
All women living with cancer are welcome to attend.
MEETS: first Tuesday of each month, Christ the King Lutheran Church (207) McConnel in Mankato) from 6-7:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Shirely at 507-387-6916
GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for anyone dealing with grief and loss. Sharing experience with others can often help manage the pain that is a natural part of grieving the many losses in our lives.
MEETS: First and Third Wednesdays of each month from 1:30-3pm, VINE Adult Community Center, 421 East Hickory Street, Mankato.
CONTACT: Sister Joyce Kolbet 507-386-5583 or Carol Ries 507-386-5571
HEALTHY BREAKFAST BUNCH (Caregiver Support)
VINE offers a monthly caregiving program for people caring for an elderly family member or friend. Each session includes a guest speaker, facilitated discussion time and refreshments. Volunteer respite care and transportation are available upon request.
MEETS: second Wednesday of each month at the Summit (518 S 5Th Street, Mankato) from 8:30-10a.m.
CONTACT PERSON: For additional information or to register Call Mary O. or Mary W. at 507-387-1666
HEART-TO-HEART SUPPORT GROUP
An educational program for people with heart disease. Family and friends welcome
MEETS: fourth Monday of every month, Immanual St. Joseph’s Lower Level Conference Center, Rooms0308 & 0310 from 7 -8 p.m. (Feb., April, June. Aug., Oct, & Dec.)
CONTACT PERSON: cardiac Rehab at 507-385-2607
LA LECH LEAGUE
Information and support for women who are breastfeeding.
MEETS: fourth Tuesday of each month (January- October) Immanual St. Joseph’s Lower level Conference Center, Room 0308 at 6:30p.m.
(Call for dates/times/ during November and December)
CONTACT PERSON: Rachel at 507-625-7134
LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP
MEETS: third Thursday of each month (no summer meeting) at 2.p.m. and 7.p.m.Call for meeting location.
CONTACT PERSON: Nadine Sandon, 507-345-8950 or Diane Beyer, 507-388-8991
MEMORY SUPPORT GROUP
This group is for those who have been diagnosed with a cognitive impairment or for anyone who has questions about their memory. Family caregivers are also welcome to attend.
MEETS: Second Thursday of each month from 10-11:30am, VINE Adult Community Center, 421 East Hickory Street, Mankato
CONTACT PERSON: Mary Wichtendahl 507-386-5577
MS SELF HELP SUPPORT GROUP
The MS Self Help Support Group shares a belief that positive personal change happens through individual efforts of others. Members can gain more information and strategies for confronting problems they may encounter and find reassurance and support from others with similar life experiences.
MEETS: second Thursday of each month, Immanual St. Joseph’s, Physical Theraphy, Madison East Center, from 7-8p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Brenda Fruhwirth at 507-385-2600, ext.2414
MS SELF HELP SUPPORT GROUP
The MS Self Help Support Group shares a belief that positive personal change happens through individual efforts with the support of others. Members can gain more information and strategies for confronting problems they may encounter and find reassurance and confronting problems they may encounter and find reassurance and support from others with similar life experiences.
MEETS: second Thursday of each month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s, Physical Therapy, Madison East Center, from 7-8pm.
CONTACT PERSON: Brenda Fruhwirth at 507-385-2600, ext. 2414
MS SUPPORT GROUP
Small group of people with MS and their family members who get together to share and support one another for the benefit of the whole group. The purpose of the group is to provide mutual sharing and support for people with MS> Groups may also invite professionals to present related resource information at meetings.
MEETS: third Monday of each month, Waseca Medical Center, New Conference Room from 7- 8:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Cindy Lewer, at 507-833-4003
PULMONARY REHABILITATION
A group program with individualized goals for people with lung disease. (provider referral)
CONTACT PERSON: For more information or to register, call Mobile at 507-385-5605. Cost will vary.
SOUTH CENTER OSTOMY MINNESOTA SUPPORT GROUP
A support group to provide education and social opportunity for those with ostomies. Family members welcome.
MEETS: third Thursday of February, April, June and October, Mankato clinic conference Room at 7:30p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Edward Schaus, 507-934-2089
SOUTH CENTRAL MN PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
Support group for those with Parkinson;s, family, friends and health care professionals.
MEETS: third Tuesday of each month(March- December) United Church of Christ (Stoltzman and Staduim) at 2 p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Irene at 507-380-2307
Special individual support available for those with Parkinson’s.
SLEEP APNEA SUPPORT GROUP
A.W.A.K.E. is a national support group for those who suffer from Sleep Apnea.
MEETS: third Monday of every month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s, Lower Level Conference center, Room 0308 at 5:15p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Susan Schweim at 507-245-3390
S.T.O.P. SMOKING GROUPS
Program provides treatment for individuals who require interventions regarding their use of nicotime products. Participants must attend five sessions.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please call 507-385-4662
SUICIDE SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP
A suicide survivor support has formed in our area. Have you lost a friend or loved one to suicide? This group provides support and information.
MEETS: second Thursday of each month, Immanuel St. Joseph’s Lower level Conference Center, Room 0312 at 7p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Marlene Buker at 507-388-5313
WEAVERS SUPPORT GROUP
A support group for people over 60 who grieve the loss of a spouse.
MEETS: Every Thursday, Christ the King Lutheran Church (207 McConnell, Mankato) from 10-11:30a.m.
CONTACT PERSON: For more information, please contact 507-385-2989 or 800-327-3821 ext. 2989 (toll free)
WINDJAMMERS SUPPORT GROUP
This group offers support for people who suffer from chronic lung disease, asthma, emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Family and friends welcome.
MEETS: third Thursday of every month (March-December) Immanuel St. Joseph, Lower Level Conference center, Room0310 at 2p.m.
CONTACT PERSON: Mollie at 507-385-5605
