Changes Are Coming at Community of Care in 2026

Changes are coming to Community of Care in 2026.  Myrna Hanson, Executive Director, has announced her retirement after 15 years at Community of Care.  Myrna’s last day at Community of Care will be July 3rd.

During Myrna’s time at Community of Care, we have been blessed to see growth in programs, services and staff.  That growth has been a result of the support we receive from generous donors, grantors, the North Department of Health and Human Services and volunteers. 

During her time at Community of Care, Myrna has written countless grants and spearheaded fundraising efforts to support our mission and to ensure our services remain Free of Charge.  Totally Tables, Giving Hearts Day and the Rural Cass Roots campaign have all grown immensely during Myrna’s time at Community of Care.  Over her 15 year tenure, Myrna has helped to raise over $4.5 million to support Community of Care’s mission and ensure our services are provided Free of Charge for older adults.

In 2012, Myrna submitted a Faith Community Nurse grant to Sanford Health to add the first part-time Faith Community Nurse.  Receiving that grant allowed us to hire a part time Faith Community Nurse in Northern Cass.  Since then, we have added part-time Faith Community Nurses in Casselton and the Kindred area.  The addition of Faith Community Nurses has increased our impact as we serve more clients and their needs.

In 2014, Community of Care was honored to be selected as a Bush Prize winner.  We were one of only 3 in North Dakota and the smallest in the tri-state area.  Myrna submitted the application for this award, but she is quick to report it was a result of the work of many people.  The physical award from the Bush Foundation sits on Myrna’s desk and is a reminder of this honor and a talking point for those who stop by her office.

During the 2025 ND Legislative Session, Myrna worked with local legislators to increase funding to support our mission.  Our funding had remained the same since 2009.  Myrna’s work with legislators resulted in a significant increase in funding to assist older adults remain in the rural Cass County homes they love.

The board is very appreciative of all the work, dedication and service Myrna has contributed to Community of Care during her 15 years as the Executive Director.

The board has begun the process of identifying Community of Care’s needs and will begin the search process for their next Executive Director in the coming weeks. 

Scott Kroeger

Board Chairperson