HISTORY AND MISSION

Vinland National Center was founded in 1976 as a health sports center for people with disabilities. Modeled on the Norwegian rehabilitation center Beitostolen, Vinland has evolved over the past 30 years to provide additional services to people with disabilities that include vocational, chemical health, and independent living skills development. Vinland still maintains the original health sports concept by offering services in fitness training and therapeutic exercise.

Vinland’s mission is to work to prevent disabilities and assist individuals who face multiple, complex problems associated with disabilities to live productive and fulfilling lives.

SERVICE AREA

Most of Vinland's clients come from the eleven-county Twin Cities metro area; the rest come from throughout the state of Minnesota, the surrounding five-state area and, occasionally, other parts of the US.

FACILITIES - Click here to take a tour of our facility

Vinland's buildings and grounds are handicapped-accessible and conveniently located just 35 minutes west of Minneapolis. Features include:

2,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Independence.

  • Mile-long paved walking and fitness trail
  • 175 acres of restored natural prairie and wetlands
  • Two, three, and four person bedrooms with attached bathrooms and accessible showers
  • Comfortably furnished, homelike common areas
  • Indoor fitness center
  • Heated lakeside chalet with fully accessible bathrooms, kitchen, and meeting areas
  • Nutritious meals professionally prepared on the premises (most dietary restrictions can be accommodated with a day or two of advance notice)
FUNDING AND FINANCES

Vinland is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization governed by a volunteer board of community leaders. Funding is provided through state and county purchase-of-service contracts; government grants; charitable contributions from foundations, corporations, civic groups, and individuals; insurance reimbursement; and client fees.

STAFFING

Vinland employs 40 full-time staff .