Alzheimer and Dementia Workgroup (Mountain Projects, Inc)

The Alzheimer & Dementia Workgroup’s overarching goal is to increase awareness and support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementia and their caregivers. Alzheimer & Dementia Workgroup is a 2010 recipient of The Rosalinde Gilbert Innovations in Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiving Legacy Award for the Policy & Advocacy category.

Organization:

Mountain Projects, Inc

Mountain Projects, Inc. has served the residents of Haywood and Jackson Counties for 45 years. Haywood Community Connections is a program in its Senior Services Department. It brings nonprofits, government entities, businesses and community members together in collaboration and is responsible for forming the Alzheimer & Dementia Workgroup.

Location:

Waynesville, NC

How does it work?

The Alzheimer & Dementia Workgroup was formed in response to a county-wide assessment that revealed Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementia as a concern to seniors living in the community. The target population consists of those diagnosed and their caregivers. The workgroup has brought Safe Return and Project C.A.R.E. to Haywood County. They have incorporated an Alzheimer’s training component in every law enforcement training series across the county. In addition, the workgroup developed a training program for clergy, lay leaders, congregation members, and faith-based volunteers, entitled Day-by-Day. The program teaches faith-based organizations how to reach out into the community and serve those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.

Why is it successful?

The workgroup has served as a catalyst in bringing collaboration among various churches, business and government entities, and nonprofits to address the needs of those with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia and their caregivers: a true systems change.

For more information: www.mountainprojects.org.