Health and Wholeness
At Central, we partner with Augsburg University and Mental Health Connect to offer free physical and mental health services in our space. Learn more about these partnerships below.
Augsburg Central Health Commons
The Augsburg Central Health Commons (ACHC) is the first health commons location started by Augsburg University’s Department of Nursing in 1992. The ACHC is made possible due to an ongoing partnership with Central Lutheran Church in downtown Minneapolis. This nurse-led drop-in center is focused on meeting people where they are, responding to any expressed felt need of those who visit, especially as it pertains to health. We are dedicated to building relationships based on mutual benefit and understanding with those who utilize our space.
How It Works
Anyone looking for diapers, hygiene supplies, one-on-one nurse consultations, or just to have a place to sit and rest are welcome. Volunteers often spend time visiting with members of the community, distributing donations, and setting up the space.
Faculty, students, and volunteers also provide basic care, such as blood pressure checks or basic foot care. The hope is that the moments here can allow guests to address their health needs as they deem necessary, and the work can lead to addressing health inequities and foster healing.
Volunteering
If you are a volunteer interested in working at the Health Commons, please email the Augsburg Central Health Commons, and we will get back to you about future opportunities. We do not take students from outside institutions that need required service-learning hours or public health clinical experiences to fulfill coursework due to our limited space.
Mental Health Connect
Central Lutheran is part of a collective of faith communities run by Mental Health Connect. If you are dealing with mental health challenges this is a great place to start. Navigating the mental health system is challenging even when you’re not in crisis. This network connects you with mental health resources, education, community resources and support groups. It is free, individualized, and confidential to reach out to a Navigator through Mental Health Connect.