Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County

Seniors & adults with disabilities, along with their caregivers, have somewhere to call when they need help with everyday essential rides, errands, and tasks.

Including people like:

Nan and her daughter Ashley

Nan was once a school counselor and fourth grade teacher, a Master Gardner, a talented artist...her daughter describes her as "a resourceful, independent person, who has lived alone for 20 years."

As Ashley put it, "Interfaith bridged the gap," giving their family the extra time they needed to find a safe place for her mom. 

Ashley and her family never imagined the day would come when she'd have to care for her independent mother, but dementia changed everything. Their journey has been heartbreaking, filled with challenges they never expected. The family knew that Nan's life would change when she was diagnosed with dementia three years ago. The news was especially hard because they have always been a family of 'givers and do-ers' who have strong ties to the community. Since the disease was caught in the early stages, they knew they had some time before major decisions needed to be made. Wanting to be prepared, Nan and her family put a plan in place. Ashley, a self-described type A personality, said they mapped out a five-year plan to navigate the journey ahead.

But then Nan got what seemed like a minor injury that required surgery. She drove up to the day prior to surgery, but due to complications from the procedure and COVID, Nan's dementia symptoms worsened rapidly. She would never drive again.

This is where the relationship with Interfaith started. Ashley found her role transitioning from daughter to caregiver sooner than expected...

Caring for two households, being a special education teacher, program manager for the Wisconsin School Psychologist Association, and having two daughters, Ashley's plate is more than full. As her mom's caregiver, Ashley tearfully says, "it's been difficult". 

Ashley isn't alone. Many caregivers feel overwhelmed and need support. Thankfully, Interfaith Caregivers is here to lighten the load and offer a helping hand. With the help of Interfaith volunteers, Ashley is working to enhance Nan's quality of life and gently slow the progression of dementia.

To see more of the amazing activities our volunteers share with Nan, please visit our website www.interfaithpolk.org

Interfaith is the helping hand Ashley needed to support her mom's well-being. This is just one family's story.  There are numerous other neighbors helping neighbors stories including Interfaith as a connection to community and independence. Nan and her daughter, Ashley What sets Interfaith apart? All help provided is at no cost. In fact, Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County coordinates the only no cost rides available in Polk County, WI.

Because we don't charge for our services and we want everyone to get the help they need, we rely on the generosity of our community - generosity from people like you!

When you give, you're joining others who want seniors & adults with disabilities to have a place they can receive help with everyday essential errands and tasks so they can continue living independently. Your giving stays local, and with it, our staff is able to find rides for people like Nan to help her stay connected to her community of support.

Without your support, who would Ashley or Nan call? Or other people who need help with rides, chores, and other basic necessities?

Will you give your best gift today to ensure that our program and services are here to continue providing compassionate care for our neighbors - maybe even yours?

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

Your kindness ensures that Interfaith will be here for you

and the people you love most!