Greetings!


Happy New Year Nevada County!


According to Phil, we have six more weeks of winter. I hope that means we will get at least a small amount of snow before launching into Spring.


With the new year upon us, it’s time to pause, reflect, and look ahead with intention.


As we move into this year, we’re excited to share that our calendar is already filling with a wide range of community education events designed to inform, support, and connect. From practical guidance to heartfelt conversations, we work with several community partners to bring these offerings that are becoming an important part of how we walk alongside our community. We invite you to visit our event calendar and join us throughout the year.


We also want to hear from you. Is there something we can offer in the way of education that you feel would be useful to you and your loved ones? If so, please reach out and let us know.


We are thankful for the trust you place in us, the partnerships that strengthen our work, and the opportunity to continue serving with compassion and care. We look forward to another meaningful year of learning together, supporting one another, and engaging in ways that truly make a difference. 💛

Heidi Wingo

Executive Director

Adventure, Compassion & a Thirst for Knowledge

BY KIMBERLY GORDON

Annie Burns has been a fixture at Penn Valley Gift & Thrift for over three decades. Her connection to Foothills Compassionate Care began 2,530 miles away in Buffalo, New York, where Hospice supported her family during her father’s final stages of life. Inspired by that experience, Annie began volunteering at the Penn Valley thrift store in the mid-1990s. After working the register and supporting various departments, she found a passion for book donations. Teaching herself how to identify rare and vintage titles, Annie has raised thousands of dollars for the store over the past decade.


Managing the book section has been a perfect fit for Annie’s curious spirit. As an international flight attendant, she traveled the globe seeking adventure and continues to explore the world through books. “It’s a wonderful feeling, being exposed to more knowledge,” she shares. Store manager Jason notes, “The book section is critical, and Annie’s commitment and consistency is amazing.” Beyond sales, Annie’s warmth draws customers in, and she also launched a program that donates unsold books to Interfaith Food Ministries, where they’re made available for free.

Vote for Us!

BEST OF NEVADA COUNTY NOMINATIONS OPEN NOW!

Voting for The Union's Best of Nevada County celebration opened February 10


We would love your support in the following categories:

  • Best Nonprofit (Foothills Compassionate Care)
  • Best Consignment / Thrift Store (Foothills Gift & Thrift)

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2026 | FOOTHILLS COMPASSIONATE CARE OFFICE

Community Education Series:
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's


Curious about what to watch out for? This in-person event breaks down the key signs of Alzheimer's in a simple, friendly way. Whether you're caring for a loved one or just want to learn more, come hang out, ask questions, and get the lowdown on this important topic. Don't miss out on this chance to stay informed and connect with community!

Community Outreach Recap

BINGO

December 5


Liz (Community Relations Manager) 
& Janice (Brunswick Village) hosted a lively game of B-I-N-G-O at Gold Country Senior Services, complete with complimentary cocoa, cider & cookies.

Santa's Village

December 20


Thank you to our sponsors The Lee & Dunn Group, the community, the volunteers, and the staff, who donated toys, time, money, face painting talent and love for our day with Santa and Mrs. Claus. You all helped make this event possible and it was a hit!

Tibetan Buddhist Monks

January 29


We were treated to a special evening of wisdom, reflection, and community as the Tibetan Buddhist Monks returned to Nevada County. Through their presentation, How to Care for the Caregiver, we explored the emotional, spiritual, and human experience of caregiving — receiving gentle guidance on how we can support one another through illness, aging, and the end-of-life journey.

Before I Die

Public art installation


We launched our public mobile art installation with an invitation for Board members to contribute with their bucket list items. Keep your eye out as we make our way through multiple area businesses. What would YOU like to do before you die?

Upcoming Events

Jewelry Sale
at Foothills Gift & Thrift



FEBRUARY 13-14


Enjoy 25% off jewelry at both Foothills Gift & Thrift locations!

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's



FEBRUARY 18


Curious about what to watch out for? This in-person event breaks down the key signs of Alzheimer's in a simple, friendly way.

Community Insight



FEBRUARY 25


Join us at 9am on the 4th Wednesday of every month, as we chat with Tom Fitzsimmons about all things Foothills Compassionate Care.

Head, Hands & Feet



MARCH 17


Join Samantha, a Therapeutic Bodyworker for over 30 years, as she discusses and demonstrates how to safely offer healing touch to your loved ones.

Do you have a mission moment to share?


We're always looking for stories that exemplify the heart of what we do. Have one to share? Reply to this email an tell us about it!

Are You a Legacy Donor?

If you have included Foothills Compassionate Care in your estate plans, we would love the opportunity to thank you, welcome you into our Legacy Circle and ensure your gift is used exactly as you intend.


Please complete our Estate Plan Intention form, so that you may be recognized and recorded.