Alyssa Oppewal Geary
Director, Connections Programs
Why do you do the work you do?
To make an impactful difference in the lives of older adults living with dementia and their family caregivers. There is nothing more rewarding than helping someone in need and making something just a little easier during such a challenging, life-changing time.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy seeing how beneficial our services can be to someone struggling with dementia. For example, seeing someone who is having trouble communicating due to where they are at in their stage of dementia engage in an activity with others is amazing to watch. I also love working with a great team of compassionate people.
Why is the type of work you do so important?
This work is so important to me because I have a personal connection to dementia. My family has been supporting my father, who has been living with dementia for about 10 years. I see all facets of this challenging disease and see the importance of having resources and a supportive community.
What difference do you feel our service – and your work – makes for those we serve and their loved ones?
I feel our service truly makes a huge difference. As a family caregiver for my own loved one, I understand the struggles and see firsthand by those we do serve the difference it makes. Whether it be giving a few hours of respite to a burnout caregiver or seeing someone experience joy by reminiscing and dancing to a song from their childhood, I know we are making a difference.
