Neighbors Who Care, The Perfect Place, Alzheimer’s Association, Palo Verde Management, a teaching artist and a caregiver make up this new coalition. The coalition was initiated by Wayne Mangold, a Sun Lakes resident. Wayne’s wife, Hanne, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2011. For several years, the Mangolds have been driving to Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa five days a week for Hanne’s therapeutic wellness and the couple’s caregiver support.

In August, the coalition members were invited to participate in a group discussion for the development of wellness programs near or in Sun Lakes for memory related problems. From that discussion the coalition was formed to work together for the greater good of serving the community. Initially the coalition’s program will focus on wellness for the memory related and Parkinson families but will expand the program to meet other community needs.

Music therapy, art engagement and family support programs are planned for late 2016 and spring 2017. Robin Rio, ASU Associate Professor of Music Therapy and Sun Joo Lee, Tremble Clef Director, will collaborate for the music therapy. Tremble Clef is a nation-wide singing program for people with Parkinson’s disease and their partners. The Arizona Commission on the Arts will be involved with the Art Engagement Program. More information will be announced in the near future.

The Cottonwood Palo Verde Foundation has committed start-up financial assistance as well as scholarships for coalition’s programs.

Carol Bowers, Neighbors Who Care Volunteer Service Manager, stated, “The newly formed coalition will be working together to formulate a business plan for long term wellness needs within the community. I am excited about the possibilities generated with coalition members working as a cohesive entity.”