Who We Are
Dementia Support Northwest has served northwestern Washington since 1983. What started around a kitchen table has grown into an organization of volunteers, family and friends of persons affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses. Previously known as Alzheimer Society of Washington, our mission is to educate people about dementia-related diseases and support caregiving partnerships.
Each year we provide hundreds of hours of support to caregivers in Whatcom and Skagit County through our free programs:
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Support Groups for adults caring for those affected by dementia
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Staying Connected Memory Support Groups for adults newly diagnosed or experiencing minimal memory loss
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Adult Children Support Groups for those adults caring for a parent affected by dementia
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Dementia-Friendly events
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Art Access Classes with Allied Arts of Whatcom County
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Project Lifesaver (a partnering with the Whatcom County Sheriff) providing electronic technology to locate those who wander
All seek to provide a support to those living with dementia as well as to those providing their care.
Dementia Support Northwest provides professional education and training to those likely to engage with those living with dementia through our partnership with our local Area Agency on Aging, the Northwest Regional Council in Bellingham. Trainings for community groups and professionals alike promote our vision for a more understanding, accepting, and supportive community for those affected by cognitive decline.
Board of Directors
Josselyn Winslow, Board Chair
Barry Meyers, Vice Chair
Carolyn Lenington, Interim Treasurer
Mary Ellen O'Keefe, Secretary
Glenda McLachlan
Don Kurtis
Beverly Brownrigg
Staff
Executive Director: Daniel Gray, MPA
Education Coordinator: Leslie Jackson, RN
Program Assistant: Betsy Freeman
Project Lifesaver Coordinator: Tom Oliver
Why We Do It
Our Mission
Our mission is to support people with dementia and their caregivers, families and friends, through education and working with community partners to expand resources.
Our Vision
A community where Alzheimer’s and other dementias are understood and accepted. We desire to bring awareness to our society with an understanding of the overwhelming devastation caused by the dementias; and to bring about improvements in the social and health systems serving those affected by dementia-related diseases.
Our Values
We are a compassionate, responsive, and accepting organization committed to honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all we do.