Welcome to Dementia Friendly Galesburg!

Dementia Friendly Galesburg is a local initiative of VNA Community Services committed to building a more compassionate, informed, and inclusive Knox County—where every person living with dementia is respected, supported, and empowered.

As part of the national Dementia Friendly America network, we are proud to lead efforts that raise awareness, provide practical support, and connect community partners who care deeply about creating a safe and welcoming environment for individuals and families affected by memory loss.

A Community That Remembers To Care

We are partnering with Dementia Friendly America (learn more at www.dfamerica.org) to bring this transformative movement to Galesburg. By joining a nationwide network of dementia-friendly communities, we are working to ensure that every individual, organization, and business has the tools and knowledge needed to create a supportive environment.

Our Mission

To create a more inclusive, informed, and compassionate community by raising awareness, supporting individuals and families affected by dementia, and equipping local partners to better understand, serve, and uplift those living with memory challenges.

What We Do

  • Business & Staff Trainings
    We offer engaging, practical presentations tailored to businesses and frontline staff—equipping them with the knowledge, empathy, and tools needed to better serve community members living with dementia. These sessions cover communication strategies, customer service adaptations, and inclusive practices.
  • Community Demonstrations & Events
    We collaborate with local organizations to host public events and hands-on demonstrations that showcase supportive tools, safety practices, and sensory experiences that enhance care and promote understanding.
  • Advocacy & Awareness Campaigns
    Through storytelling, education, and public outreach, we work to reduce stigma and elevate the voices of those affected by dementia. From garden dedications to awareness weeks, we ensure the message is clear: every mind matters.

Our Partners

Dementia Friendly Galesburg is powered by a growing Action Team of local champions including:

  • Healthcare Professionals
    – OSF HealthCare, UnityPoint Health, and memory care specialists
  • Social Service Providers
    – VNA Community Services, Bridgeway, and the Alzheimer’s Association
  • Government & Public Agencies
    – City of Galesburg, Knox County Health Department, and law enforcement
  • Faith & Education Leaders
    – Local churches, school district advocates, and adult education providers
  • Caregivers, Families, and Volunteers
    – Individuals with lived experience who shape everything we do

Together, we are building a more dementia-aware Galesburg—one training, one conversation, and one connection at a time.

Become a Dementia Champion

Your compassion can make a difference. Join our movement as a Dementia Champion and help spread awareness, reduce stigma, and support our mission through volunteerism, outreach, or community leadership.

💬 Do you have what it takes to change the culture of care in your hometown?

Let’s build a Galesburg where every resident—regardless of memory or ability—feels seen, heard, and valued.

Contact Us

VNA Community Services
2262 Grand Ave, Galesburg, IL 61401
📞 309-342-1152
✉️ frontdesk@myvna.net