Two new staff members have joined Koochiching Aging Options, an independent nonprofit organization that provides services to older adults throughout Koochiching County.
Kristy Wagner-Werner has taken on the dual role of caregiver consultant and dementia support specialist.
As a caregiver consultant, Wagner-Werner works to support individuals and families who are providing care to an older adult or someone with dementia. She helps a stressed caregiver find resources, learn coping skills and find time for self-care. She also specializes in helping persons with dementia and their care partners, helping to locate resources, learn about the disease and plan for the future.
Wagner-Werner was born and raised in International Falls. After graduation from Falls High School she attended Bemidji State University where she graduated with a bachelor of science degree in business administration and management.
She brings with her a strong background in nonprofit and for-profit organizations.
She and her husband Steven have two young daughters, Ava and Liv. They enjoy the outdoors and spending time on Rainy Lake. She also volunteers in her children’s classrooms and at related school activities.
The new program specialist at Koochiching Aging Options is Kari Miggins. She is responsible for administering a number of programs, including Senior Wheels, Senior Companion Program, Groceries to You!, RSVP and the Koochiching Good Visit Program. The job includes recruiting and managing volunteers.
Miggins is a graduate of Falls High School and is pursuing her bachelor of arts in psychology. She has extensive nonprofit experience, including 16 years as a teacher and administrator at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School. She has provided private service care for area youth. She has been involved with Community Education, KIDS Plus, Bronco Basketball Boosters and STRIVE. Her daughter Libby is a Bronco basketball player and her son Cole is attending the University of Minnesota, Duluth.
“I’m honored and excited to be working with an amazing community asset such as Koochiching Aging Options,” Miggins said. “Whether you are requesting a service or wanting to learn about volunteer opportunities, I welcome your call.”
