Memory Bridge Initiative

This fall the District approved a new activity for middle school students called the Memory Bridge Initiative. This program is operated by the Foundation for Alzheimer's and Cultural Memory and coordinated by teacher, Kristy Mixon. Students meet for two hours each week after school to learn about the causes and effects of this disease. Students are introduced to communication and intergenerational relationship-building skills that will be an asset to them in the future. Every third week the students visit the Fairview Baptist Home in Downers Grove where they are paired up with a “buddy” who is suffering from Alzheimer's Disease. During these visits the students implement the skills they have learned in the classroom and visit with residents. Students have the opportunity to learn about the the lives of their “buddies” and what they are able to remember. These new relationships are beneficial to both the student and the patient since many patients do not have family able to visit regularly. These student visits are a special treat for those with Alzheimer's Disease and provide the opportunity for students to help others within the local community.

The program operates in 12 week segments offering both a fall and spring session. For more information contact Mrs. Mixon kmixon@ccsd66.org with any questions about this program.