Education, Compassion & Connection for Those Affected by Hoarding Disorder
We are an all-volunteer group of individuals and professionals who educate the public and families about hoarding disorder — connecting people with resources, always with compassion and confidentiality.
285,000
Minnesotans estimated to live with hoarding disorder
2–6%
of the world population affected
100%
Volunteer-run organization
2016
Year the task force was founded
Who We Are
About the Minnesota Hoarding Task Force
The Minnesota Hoarding Task Force is a group of individuals and professionals who work in various fields or have a personal interest in hoarding. We are an all-volunteer group.
We educate the public and families about what hoarding is and is not. We respond to requests for help with hoarding situations and participate in community events with information for those affected by or who want to learn more about hoarding.
We do not offer services directly. Instead, we use our expertise and connections to share information and options to be considered. If you have a question about a hoarding situation, contact us by phone, email, or on our Facebook Page. We always keep details of such situations confidential.
What Drives Us
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
To support any person, family, friend or agency in Minnesota affected by hoarding through education, networking and connection to resources while promoting public health and safety.
Our Vision
We envision communities that implement best practices to support those affected by hoarding where individuals are supported with sustainable options while being treated with dignity and respect.
Our Values
Compassion
We approach every situation with empathy and without judgment, recognizing that hoarding disorder is a complex mental health condition.
Confidentiality
All details shared with us about hoarding situations are kept strictly confidential.
Education
We believe that knowledge is the foundation for understanding, reducing stigma, and driving meaningful change.
Connection
We connect individuals, families, and professionals with the resources and support systems they need.
Dignity
Every person affected by hoarding disorder deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
Community
We work collaboratively with community partners to build a network of support across Minnesota.
Clinical Overview
Understanding Hoarding Disorder
Hoarding Disorder (HD) is a mental health condition with roots in trauma and loss. HD affects an estimated 2–6% of people across the world. Based on Minnesota's population of 5.7 million, this means roughly 285,000 Minnesotans could be living with the disorder.
Hoarding Disorder presents as:
- Persistent, excessive attachment to possessions regardless of their actual value.
- Clinically significant distress and anxiety associated with parting with items.
- Living spaces that cannot be used for their intended purpose.
- Disruption of social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning such as maintaining safety for oneself and others.
- The behavior cannot be better explained by another condition such as dementia, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), or Prader-Willi syndrome.
Hoarding is often hidden
People who hoard often hide their situation from family, friends, and neighbors — sometimes out of embarrassment or fear of being turned in to authorities. The items in the home may feel comforting to the owner. The clutter may even provide a sense of security. For many, hoarded items can spread to other areas including yards, porches, automobiles, and storage units.
Common experiences of people who hoard:
No website can summarize the complexities of what a person experiences with Hoarding Disorder. We understand that some relationships become extremely complicated. If you are trying to help a person struggling with this behavior, please approach them with compassion and take care of your own mental health as you do.
Leadership
Executive Board
Our all-volunteer board brings together professionals and community members dedicated to supporting those affected by hoarding disorder in Minnesota.
Jennifer LeClaire Schmidt
President
Wade Crandall, MA, LPCC
Vice President
Gail Trenholm
Treasurer
Annika Ewing
Secretary
Louise Kurzeka
Communications Liaison
Monthly Public Education & Community Collaboration Meetings
Join us at our monthly meetings where we network, learn from one another, and move forward on our mission. Meetings are held at rotating locations throughout Minnesota with an option to attend online or by phone.
Request an InvitationEmail: [email protected]
Disclaimer: The Minnesota Hoarding Task Force ("MNHTF") does not provide services directly. MNHTF provides resources and information regarding the general subject of hoarding. In doing so, MNHTF does not endorse, recommend, warrant or assume any legal liability for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process.