The Church of Our Lady of Good Counsel & St. Thomas More recently received a $30,000 grant from the Raskob Foundation for Catholic Activities, Inc. This generous grant supports launching the parish’s innovative Dementia Diary Initiative, which aims to address the needs of individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

The Dementia Diary is a unique and innovative tool designed to bridge gaps in communication and safety, track changes in daily routines, and provide caregivers with critical insights to support their loved ones better. Encouraging structured, tailored instructions and training fosters a deeper understanding of dementia care while empowering caregivers to navigate challenges more effectively. This approach supports families and strengthens community ties through shared learning and experiences.

The Raskob Foundation’s support highlights the significance of this program, which aims to foster greater awareness, inclusivity, and practical assistance for those impacted by dementia within the parish and the broader community.

Program Goals

The Dementia Diary Initiative is designed to:

• Deliver practical resources, including workshops, counseling sessions, and educational materials.
• Build an inclusive community that supports individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
• Continuously evaluate and improve the program based on participants’ social and health indicators to ensure its effectiveness.

Making a Difference

With this grant, more caregivers in and out of the parish will now have access to home services like free workshops, which equip them with tools and strategies to navigate dementia-related challenges. These resources aim to create a meaningful, positive impact in their lives and the lives of their loved ones. The services, which are free of charge, are offered in both English and Spanish.

A Call to Action

The Church of St. Thomas More and Our Lady of Good Counsel invites parishes, volunteers, and members of the wider Catholic community to support this transformative mission. Any participation—whether through sharing resources, raising awareness, or directly engaging with the program—can help build a more compassionate and understanding environment for those affected by dementia.

For more information about the Dementia Diary Initiative and how to get involved, please contact Gianni Perilli, sociologist and Director of Programs for older adults, at (212) 876-7718 or (347) 702-3197.