Our Mission

Our Mission

Council on Senior Services (COSS) connects individuals and organizations who serve older adults across Northeast Indiana. Through collaboration, education, and shared resources, we help ensure seniors and caregivers can access the services and benefits they need.

Our Story

Council on Senior Services was originally founded in December 1988 under the name Senior Health Care Coordinating Council. It began with a simple idea: bring together local leaders and professionals to improve access to quality care and support for senior citizens in Allen County.

Early on, the organization received a $25,000 grant from Navistar, allowing the group to hire administrative support, purchase equipment, and establish office space through the Medical Society.

Over the years, the council helped launch and support initiatives such as:

• Medicare Partners: ID cards for low-income seniors to support access to participating physicians

• Senior Connection: an annual senior health fair (1990–1993)

• Intergenerational School Project: seniors sharing stories and lessons with students

• Indigent Drug Booklet (1992–1994): connecting low-income patients to free medications

In 1996, the organization officially became the Council on Senior Services (COSS)—reflecting its growing role as a community connector and advocate for seniors.

COSS Today

Today, COSS continues to serve Northeast Indiana by bringing together professionals and community partners who care deeply about the well-being of our aging population.

One of our most impactful tools is the Senior Resource Guide, with more than 20,000 copies printed and distributed free throughout Allen County each year.

Through advertising support in the guide, COSS is also able to provide annual grants to organizations that serve seniors in our region—helping strengthen services, programs, and community support systems.