ZVMS-Backed Team Wins Award for Work with Those Experiencing Homelessness

October 16, 2025

The TABLE (The Team of Advisors Bringing Lived Experience), a 15-member team with direct experience of homelessness who provide input on programs, projects, and policies in Rochester, was awarded the Northern Light Award for Greater Minnesota on October 1 at the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless (MCH) Annual Conference. 

​​​​​The TABLE was formed in July 2024 with help from Zumbro Valley Medical Society (ZVMS) Street Medicine to develop recuperative care in Olmsted County for discharged patients who need more than a tent or shelter to continue convalescing.  

Since forming, The TABLE has hosted a discussion about homelessness with the president-elect of the AMA, advised dermatologists on discharge instructions, city and county emergency management about tornado communication plans, and cardiologists about the needs for a heart care pop-up clinic. They also hosted a community cookout to bring the Rochester community together, and address common stereotypes about homelessness.  

In addition, Olmsted County Public Health hired The TABLE to administer a survey of unhoused individuals as part of their Community Health Needs Assessment. The TABLE also advises Any Path Home, a new collective impact approach to ensure everyone in Olmsted County has a home of their choosing.