Hello Reader,

We're heading into the season of giving, and I’m reflecting with deep gratitude on last night’s Candlelight Reflections ceremony. Seeing so many families, caregivers, and community members gathered to honor loved ones reminded me of the incredible strength and compassion that define our Dementia Alliance community. Each candle represented a story — a life touched by dementia, a bond of love, and a shared hope for brighter days ahead, even in the darkness.

This season of gratitude, I want to thank you for being part of that light. Whether you attended in person, joined us virtually, or simply held someone in your heart, your presence makes a difference. Together, we continue to build a state of caring where no one faces dementia alone, and that is something truly worth celebrating.

Lisa Levine Interim Executive Director

Community Champions in Action

This fall, communities across North Carolina came together to walk, golf, and celebrate in support of Dementia Alliance, raising more than $90,000 to provide resources, personal support, caregiver education, and one-to-one guidance for families impacted by dementia.

• Devils Ridge Men’s Golf Association teed off for a cause, raising an incredible $44,000 in support of local families facing dementia.
• Washington Walk to Defeat Dementia walkers brought in $26,116 — another incredible year of supporting people living with dementia.
• Martin County Walk to Defeat Dementia walkers showed up and held off the rain during their annual walk to raise $11,178!
• Brightmore of Wilmington Fall Festival raised $5,148, with Dr. Kathleen Welsh-Bohmer, Dementia Alliance of NC Board Member, accepting the check on our behalf.
• The Running for Peggy Fundraiser, organized by Vanessa Malone, raised $2,852. Vanessa and her sons ran the Chicago Half Marathon on September 28, 2025, in tribute to her mother Peggy, who is living with dementia.
• The Sara S. Giles Legacy Tigers Fundraiser raised $2,000, led by Michelle Giles in honor of her mother’s enduring legacy.​

Special thanks to our Walk sponsors: First Bank, Woolard Insurance Agency, Lee Chevrolet, Zion Episcopal Church, P&G Manufacturing, Spring Arbor of Greenville, Johnson Lexus, Town of Hamilton, Grace Fellowship Church of God in Christ, and Grace AME Zion Church.

Each of these community-led efforts reflects the heart of what it means to build a State of Caring — neighbors supporting neighbors, and communities standing beside families impacted by dementia. The need for support, education, resources, and connection continues across our state, and it’s through moments like these that hope truly grows.

Support Group Facilitator Training

It's powerful to talk to someone who gets it. That's why support groups are so valuable for many caregivers and people living with dementia across NC. Our next facilitator training is on Wednesday, December 10, and is your chance to learn how you can make a difference as a support group leader. Help us reach our goal of a support group in every county! Learn More

Tip of the Month

The holidays are fast approaching, and while family can be wonderful, it can also be stressful. Here’s how you can find PEACE.​ Looking for more support and info? Visit our page of caregiver resources!​

Educational Opportunities

Thursday, November 13, 2025
Kerr-Tar Family Caregiver Conference | Henderson, NC
​Join Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments and Dementia Alliance of North Carolina for our Caregiver Education Conference, where you will:

• Learn practical skills for engaging and supporting people living with dementia
• Gain knowledge on how to take care of yourself
• Get a better understanding of medications
• Connect with local resources and experts

Registration is only $10 for family care partners and $25 for professional care partners, including 1.5 CEUs.

Thursday, November 20, 2025
Wilmington Caregiver Conference | Wilmington, NC
​Join Cape Fear Area Agency on Aging, New Hanover County Senior Resources, Inc., and Dementia Alliance of North Carolina for an uplifting community conference created especially for caregivers. Hear from experts Tara Jenkins, Melissa Batchelor, Jenn Workman, and Rosalie Calarco. Come as you are and find comfort, encouragement, and connection with others who truly understand what you’re going through. You’ll gain practical tools for everyday challenges, discover new ways to care for both your loved one and yourself, and have the chance to connect with local resources.

Registration for family care partners is only $5, and registration (including 3.0 CEUs) for professional care partners is $25.

Save the Date

Tuesday, December 16, 2025 3:30 - 6:30 pm Sneaky Penguin | Raleigh, NC Drop in to spend a little holiday time with DANC!