The Dementia Friendly Marion County initiative promotes AWARENESS of dementia: its signs, symptoms, resources for assistance and support, and ways to reduce its stigma. We also seek to EDUCATE through COLLABORATION with local businesses, organizations, and entities in our community to further these objectives. We will facilitate and promote the program through Dementia Friendly sessions, simulation exercises, and other opportunities to promote positive messages about dementia. It is our desire to IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE for those living with dementia, their families, and their caregivers.
Learn more about Becoming a Dementia Friendly Business/Organization here.
Join the Dementia Friendly Marion County action team! Calling anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of people living with dementia! The action team meets quarterly. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 13 at 3-4pm at Central College (room TBD). Contact Kristi Leonard (leonardk@central.edu) or Megan Bouska (bouskam@central.edu) for details.
Trained Dementia Friendly Businesses and Organizations:
Action Team Members:
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Kristi Leonard (Community Co-Lead)
Assistant Dean of Students, Central College -
Megan Bouska (Community Co-Lead)
Stewardship Program Manager, Central College -
Lisa White (Community Co-Lead)
Director of Nursing, West Ridge Specialty Care -
Brittany Cox (Community Co-Lead)
Administrator, West Ridge Specialty Care -
Katelin Valster
Assistant Professor of Kinesiology, Central College -
Joan Lucas
Pella Resident, living with dementia -
Megan Zimmerman
Community Member & Dementia Friendly State Coordinator, NEI3A -
Elaine Malek
Social Worker, Hearthstone, a WesleyLife Community -
Nicole Chaplin
Lifestyle Coordinator, WesleyLife -
Kim Dorn
Public Health Director, Marion Co. Public Health -
Judi Van Hulzen
Public Health Nurse, Marion Co. Public Health -
Nancy Van Wyk
Registered Nurse, WesleyLife -
Mildred Chihak
Ride Coordinator, HIRTA