Salem, OR — The Alzheimer's Network of Oregon (AlzNet) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 grants, which include the Make a Memory and the Honoring a Caregiver Grant. These grants underscore AlzNet's commitment to supporting individuals living with dementia and the caregivers who provide essential care.

Make a Memory Grant: This grant awards $500 to individuals diagnosed with dementia and their families, enabling them to create lasting memories through fun and meaningful activities. This year, AlzNet is pleased to recognize six deserving recipients:

 

• Judy Emerson, Salem

• Walt Haskins, Keizer

• George Lang, Keizer

• Patricia Shillcutt, Salem

• John Knight, Monmouth

• Gary Dulany, Salem

 

Melanie Emerson applied for a grant for her sister. In her application, she writes, "My sister Judy and I have always been close. Over the past ten years, I've done everything I can to help her stay in her own home as long as possible. Now, as she enters the final stages of Alzheimer's, special lunches and coffee outings are a way to make her last days more enjoyable. A grant to cover these meals would make a huge difference. It's not about big adventures but creating meaningful moments together."

 

Honoring a Caregiver Grant: This newly introduced grant recognizes the dedication and compassion of caregivers to individuals diagnosed with dementia. Caregivers, whether family members or professionals, can use the $500 grant to enjoy a well-deserved break, such as a spa day or a special outing, or hire temporary assistance to take time for themselves. The five recipients of the Honoring a Caregiver Grant are:

 

• Virginia Lang, Keizer

• Melanie Emerson, Salem

• Prindi Flug, Salem

• Kathy McGavock, Dallas

• Charles Shillcutt, Salem

 

Julia Cox applied for a Caregiver Grant on behalf of her father, Charles Shillcutt, who was the full-time caregiver for his wife of 40 years, Patricia. In her application, she writes that the "hard days are hard, but he always manages to push through." She's hoping the grant will allow him to do something special for himself. In a heartwarming surprise, Patricia and Chuck Shillcutt were joined by their daughters, Julia Cox and Cindy Blanco, who drove from California to Salem to present the grant. The couple was overwhelmed with emotion as they were reunited with their daughters during this special moment. 

The Alzheimer's Network of Oregon celebrates these caregivers for their unwavering dedication and selflessness.

 

About the Network: The Alzheimer's Network of Oregon (AlzNet) is a local nonprofit serving the Salem-Keizer community since 2003. Started by a handful of dedicated volunteers, the organization has become vital to the community. AlzNet's mission is to create opportunities for people affected by dementia to connect, socialize, and find support. Each year AlzNet provides hundreds of hours of support to persons experiencing memory loss and those giving care through its free programs, such as the Memory Café. Held monthly at two locations, one in Salem and one in Keizer, the Memory Café promotes AlzNet's vision, ensuring everyone touched by dementia receives support. The Memory Café provides a welcoming, safe place where those experiencing memory loss and their loved ones can connect with each other and those around them, receiving friendship, support, and companionship.

The Alzheimer's Network of Oregon (AlzNet) relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors. It is not affiliated with any national organization or research program, and all donated funds remain in the Salem-Keizer community.

For more information about AlzNet's programs and future grant opportunities, please visit Alznet.org, call 971-720-1652 or email MemoryCafeSalem@gmail.com.