The Village Chicago Launches Major Program for Brain Health and
Memory Loss
June 15, 2020
A generous two-year grant from an anonymous donor has been awarded to The Village Chicago for a comprehensive Brain Health and Memory Loss program. The program represents a significant expansion of the Village’s Health and Wellness Initiative which addresses social isolation, community engagement, and navigating the complexities of health transitions for people over 50.

Individuals and families experiencing concerns about brain health or a diagnosis can be overwhelmed by questions, decisions, and new emotions. In response, funded by the same generous donor, in 2019 the Village completed a planning grant to identify what supports a Brain Health and Memory Loss program should provide and they are: care partner support, referrals to best practice resources, community programs, education, and help for adult children and spouses navigating memory care programs for family members. Working with local and national experts, the Village will implement brain health initiatives that may significantly delay the onset of dementia and related conditions, as well as improving overall health. "We are thrilled to be able to provide such a comprehensive response to the needs of individuals, families and care partners," says Darcy Evon, Village CEO. "We want to inspire hope and confidence for this difficult journey."
Jennifer Hurd Joins The Village Chicago As Project Manager, Brain Health and Memory Loss
To oversee the program the Village welcomes Jennifer Hurd. Hurd holds a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Psychology and has been in the healthcare field for over 13 years. As a state certified dementia practitioner, she has worked primarily in the field of dementia care for nearly a decade--managing care units, providing education, running support groups and working collaboratively with the Pioneer Network, a national leader in advocating for person- centered care in long term programs. Hurd says, "I am committed to contributing to peace of mind for caregivers and families, and to cultivating purpose, meaning and joy for people living with dementia."

The Brain Health and Memory Loss team also includes Niki Fox, Director of Member Services, Jonathan Tague, Director of Membership and Engagement and Heather Johnson, Engagement
Coordinator. Under the leadership of Village CEO Darcy Evon and with the invaluable help of the Village's volunteer Health and Wellness Committee, this program greatly amplifies Village services in an area of growing importance. Committee Chair Ruth Ann Watkins says, "This program reflects our deep, on-going commitment to all aspects of well-being for older adults."

Outreach to family care partners has already begun. "A Support Group for Care Partners of People with Dementia" was launched in 2019 to help care partners understand and navigate the transitions a loved one may be experiencing and to help them address their own emotional needs.

For more information:
Jen Hurd
jhurd@thevillagechicago.org
773.248.8700
A special thanks to Village sponsors!

The Terry Group • Raymond James • Chicago Innovation • Artis Senior Living of Lakeview • Cubii • DePaul University • The Selfhelp Home • Home Instead Senior Care • CityWide SuperSlow • Belmont Village Senior Living • Balance Chicago

The Village Chicago is a member-to-member network of friendship, engagement and services for people over 50. We support all aspects of well-being through social engagement, an extensive services and referral network, lifelong learning, health and fitness, intergenerational relationships, work and purpose.

2502 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois 60614. 773.248.8700