Grand Traverse Area Parkinson's Support Group

Mission Statement

The Parkinson's Support Group will empower individuals and families to meet the challenges of living with Parkinson's Disease through sharing of information, education, personal support and advocacy for a cure.

Brief History

The Grand Traverse Area Parkinson's Support Group (GTAPSG) began in 1984. GTAPSG operates support groups in Traverse City and Frankfort, as well as the Young Onset Parkinson Support Group. The nationally recognized Summer Forum--now in its twenty-third year, utilizes renowned medical experts, healthcare professionals, and those currently coping with the disease to bring up-to-date information, insights, advice, hope, courage and support to participants drawn from throughout Michigan. With the generous support of our community, the Grand Traverse Area Parkinson Support Group provides for the continuing need for assistance and education. The current collaboration with Northwestern Michigan College and dedicated local professionals offers the PARKINSON CARE SERIES--specialized training for nursing home personnel and other healthcare providers.

Goals

Our primary goal is to improve the quality of life for Parkinsonians and their caregivers through: Education: Developing strategies, resources and activities to educate the general public about Parkinson's disease and people living with Parkinson's disease about available resources, support and ongoing research. Collaboration: Initiating formal and informal relationships with individuals and organizations that can contribute knowledge, support or resources. Capacity Building: Producing and implementing plans to generate and sustain the resources needed to carry out our mission.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Support Group Volunteers: Participants and assisting with programs and special events.
• Clerical Volunteers: Answering the phone, filing, helping with mailings.
• Fund raising: Lending a hand with fundraising activities.
• Transportation: Making it possible for others to attend support groups.
• Visitation: To nursing homes and other care facilities.

Giving Opportunities

Corporate or Group Sponsorship of the Summer Forum or Support Group activities.

• Gift to Annual Fund Drive (November) to support basic operations.
• Tributes and memorial gifts to honor your loved one.
• Online at www.gtaparkinsonsgroup.org.
• The Maxine Meach Donor Advised Endowment Fund for Parkinson's, established through the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation.
• Donate services or merchandise to support our Silent Auction and make our event memorable.
• Contribute stocks, bonds, art, or other valued property.

Donate Now!

Biggest Need in 2009

Donations to support further development of educational services, and to meet emergency needs of Parkinsonians and their caregivers.