- Consults on a wide range of topics from demographic changes and needs of older people to programs and services for a variety of organizations, individuals, and businesses - Leverages resources, grants or contract funds to local providers - Plans and develops with local partners a variety of home and community-based services for older people so that they can stay in their own homes and communities - Provides demographic and service need analysis that informs policymakers, the public, and the media

The council strives to improve the understanding of philanthropy by the general public, elected and appointed public officials, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, academicians, the media, and other special interest groups. These services include: - Minnesota grantmakers online: a web-based directory of foundations and corporate giving programs in Minnesota - Opportunities for education and information on private philanthropy and the grant making process through periodic public meetings and seminars - Periodic research on the extent and nature of private philanthropy, including analysis of giving trends in Minnesota - Quarterly newspaper, Giving Forum, covering activities and trends of interest to nonprofit organizations and the general public