Alzheimer’s foundation takes swing at dementia

Tell us about your organization:

We are an Alzheimer’s caregiving foundation, working specifically with the caregivers on a game plan for this season in their lives. What sets our organization apart is, not only do we understand what families are going through, but everything we do is based off a need our family had when we were caregivers. The disease is ever-changing, so each caregiver has to continually adapt their lifestyle as the disease progresses — with

hope, understanding and support. Coach Broyles Playbook for caregivers is at the core of what we do — 1.2 million in print, and translated into 11 languages,

Mission: The Broyles Foundation supports, empowers and coaches the caregivers of persons living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia through education and training, advocacy and awareness, counseling, support groups, resource distribution and referral services. We provide a game plan of practical, life-changing strategies based on our own experiences in caring for our loved ones.

Services provided: We provide a game plan for caregivers, based on our multi-generational approach, through six main areas: Training and education, resource distribution, individual and family coaching, support groups, advocacy and awareness and referral services.

Service area: Our main office is located in Fayetteville and a satellite office in Oklahoma City. We work with caregivers, family and professionals all over the country and distribute resources in 11 languages.

How is your organization’s mission unique? Why do you work for a nonprofit organization? Do you have a personal connection to the mission? If so, what is it?

Everyone has compassion, but when that compassion turns into passion, it propels action.

That is why we do what we do. I lost both my parents to this disease. I was my mother’s main caregiver, which required moving my family from Texas to Arkansas and, eventually, into the house with my parents. This is very personal to me. We stepped back and looked at what we needed as caregivers. Step-by-step, we have added in services needed for caregivers. We learned firsthand that this is a family crisis. You cannot understand how to care for this disease unless you have lived it.

What part of your job fills the most of your time?

Working with caregivers. When we get with a caregiver, we stay with them through this entire season in their life ,and you really get to know people when they’re experiencing this kind of stress in their lives. It’s critical they know they are not alone, and that help and hope is available when they need it.

What have you learned on the job that you didn’t expect?

I didn’t realize how the little things we can do mean so much to a caregiver in crisis.

What challenges face your organization?

Keeping up with the demand. Every 65 seconds someone is developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Are there volunteer opportunities in your organization? What are they?

Yes, we have many opportunities to volunteer. Our Drive and Dine event requires around 125 volunteers. We also need office help in many areas, including student interns. Please call if you’re interested!

What upcoming fundraisers and/or other events does your organization have planned?

Our biggest fundraiser is called Drive and Dine for Dementia. It will be held on July 13 at Paradise Valley Country Club and the Fayetteville Town Center. We have our Game Plan Conference in November which is a six-hour caregiving conference with speakers all related to caregiving needs. We also have the Broyles Award in Little Rock on Dec. 4, which goes to the top college football assistant in the entire nation.

Arnold