At Vivie, we believe caring for people well extends beyond the walls of our communities—it means actively engaging where decisions about care and support are made. Advocacy is an essential part of ensuring nursing homes, assisted living communities, and caregivers have the vital resources they need to consistently deliver exceptional care.
Recently, Mark Anderson, Vivie’s President and CEO, along with Angie Urman and Brady Johnsrud, warmly welcomed local lawmakers, including State Representatives Mary Franson and Paul Anderson and State Senator Torrey Westrom to Nelson Care Center. A staff member from the office of Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach was also present, along with long-term care administrators from across the region. This gathering was more than a visit; it was a meaningful opportunity to share real stories, challenges, and discuss collaborative solutions for the future of aging services.
From community conversations to the State Capitol
Yet, the conversation didn't stop there. Understanding the urgency of these issues, they continued their advocacy efforts at the State Capitol. Brady had the powerful opportunity to testify before the Minnesota Senate Human Services Committee in support of SF 1725, a bill focused on modifying elderly waiver rates and nursing facility reimbursement rates. These efforts are vital in ensuring our seniors and caregivers are adequately supported amidst growing financial pressures and workforce shortages.
Right now, the senior care sector faces daunting challenges, including nearly $200 million in unfunded mandates and over 12,500 unfilled positions across long-term care settings. Vivie's leaders are stepping forward to ensure these pressing concerns receive the attention and action they urgently need.
Why we advocate: People, purpose, and the future of care
Our advocacy isn’t solely about policy—it’s deeply personal. It's about affirming the dignity and respect every individual receiving care deserves, ensuring caregivers feel valued and supported, and safeguarding a future where exceptional care remains accessible and sustainable.
We’re incredibly grateful for leaders like Mark, Angie, and Brady, who consistently demonstrate what it means to show up and speak out passionately for those we serve. Their dedication profoundly embodies Vivie’s mission: to enrich, empower, and elevate lives at every stage.
As discussions progress at local, state, and federal levels, Vivie remains steadfast in our commitment to being a powerful voice calling for positive change—because advocating for the people we serve isn’t merely something we do; it's fundamental to who we are.
Libbie Chapuran
Libbie Chapuran is the director of communications at Vivie, where she leads strategies that elevate the voices of those Vivie serves and supports. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison with degrees in communication arts and political science, she’s spent her career in communications and advocacy across the public and nonprofit sectors, with a focus on senior care. Her love of storytelling and purposeful messaging led her to aging services, where she now brings Vivie’s mission to life through thoughtful, people-centered communication. Libbie is an active member of LeadingAge Minnesota, serving on the Engagement Committee, and contributes to local advocacy as a member of the Legislative Advisory Council for District 196 (Eagan–Apple Valley–Rosemount). Inspired by the incredible people she works alongside—and the many more Vivie serves—Libbie is motivated to share their stories in ways that move hearts and drive change.
