Dementia Caregivers & Friends
Dementia Caregivers & Friends
Supporting caregivers, strengthening connections, and navigating the dementia journey together.
Our Mission
Dementia Caregivers & Friends exists to educate, support, and encourage family caregivers of people living with dementia. We also recognize the important role of friends and community members — because caregiving is stronger when no one does it alone.
By learning, sharing, and supporting one another, we create a community where caregivers feel understood and empowered. Rooted in the spirit of the High Country, this work reflects a shared commitment to caring for one another.
For more information or to get involved, contact April Henkel at dementiacaregiverswnc@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook to stay connected.
Our History
Dementia Caregivers & Friends began in Yancey County in 2022 with a caregiver workshop hosted by Higgins Memorial United Methodist Church and High Country Area Agency on Aging. Nearly 40 participants attended, highlighting a strong need for ongoing support.
In response, local volunteers secured funding from The Yancey Fund (Community Foundation of Western North Carolina) to establish a Dementia Caregivers Resource Center. By 2023, attendance doubled at the annual workshop, and a monthly support group was launched.
Continued funding has allowed the program to grow and expand services into Avery and Mitchell counties.
Our Services
Yancey County Caregiver Support Group (with Onsite Group Respite)
We offer a safe, supportive space to share experiences, challenges, and resources with others who understand caregiving. Group respite is available during caregiver support group meetings for individuals with early-stage dementia, allowing caregivers to participate. Pre-registration is required.
Monthly Meeting: 4th Thursday at 1 PM (Burnsville, NC)
Contact April Henkel at (850) 228-1228 or dementiacaregiverswnc@gmail.com for more information.
Dementia Caregivers Annual Workshop
Held annually each fall, these workshops provide practical tools, education, and connection for caregivers. Save the date for the 2026 Annual Workshop: October 29, 2026 (more details to come – join the email list for updates).
The Friends Café (Memory Café)
Social gatherings for caregivers and their loved ones with dementia. Designed to foster connection, engagement, and community in a welcoming environment. For more information, email dementiacaregiverswnc@gmail.com.
Monthly Caregiver E-Letter
A monthly email with tips, resources, training opportunities, support groups, and program updates. To subscribe, email dementiacaregiverswnc@gmail.com.
Dementia Caregiver Resource List – Yancey County
A regularly updated list of local resources, including contacts, services, and helpful tools. Available for download and at the Resource Center.
Dementia Caregivers Resource Center
Located at the Yancey County Public Library, the center offers books, educational materials, and caregiver handouts for checkout and reference. See a list of available materials here. Resource Centers are being developed in Avery and Mitchell Counties.