Thelma’s Place is a non-profit care center that provides families with a place they can take a rest from care-giving. The Oregon-based organization provides respite service in an environment that is built on the core values of love and hope.
Executive Director
Ellen Coburn
said, "When our founder learned that there were over 80,000 people in Oregon living with Alzheimer's he set to work to provide services and support for families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's or other dementias in their homes, outreaching to rural and underserved communities. Thelma's Place understands the needs of the family members living day in and day out with someone with Alzheimer's and we believe it’s essential to have assistance from our organization as we provide needed respite along with compassion, reliable support, and opportunities to restore balance - all improving the overall quality of life for both caregivers and the participants."
A longtime AFA member organization, Thelma’s Place is the national winner of AFA's 2018 Anne and Irving Brodsky Innovation Grant. The $25,000 award will fund their Intergenerational Sensory Garden – The Garden of Life, an enriching, educational environment designed for both individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and pre-school aged children. It provides opportunities for interaction, cognitive stimulation and enjoyment in a safe, home-like environment.
