Alzheimer's Association and FEAP Offering Caregiver Education Series
"Caregiver Connection" is 6-Part educational series for supporting loved ones with Alzheimer's and age-related conditions
This Caregiver Educational Series aligns with FEAP's Step Forward Together campaign, which is rooted in fostering resilience, connection, and growth within our communities.
By equipping caregivers with practical tools and compassionate guidance, FEAP recognizes the profound intersection of personal well-being and professional success. Supporting those caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s not only strengthens families but also creates healthier workplaces where employees feel empowered to navigate challenges without sacrificing their careers. Step Forward Together is about building bridges—ensuring that every caregiver feels valued, understood, and equipped to thrive, both at home and at work.
The Upcoming Caregiver Educational Series
In an effort to empower caregivers, the Alzheimer’s Association’s Brooke Gill and FEAP’s Dominique McLaughlin are hosting a Caregiver Educational Series, “Caregiver Connection,” to offer practical tools to help you navigate the caregiving journey:
January 16: Building the Foundations of Caregiving
Guidance on managing changing roles, building support systems, and prioritizing self-care to reduce caregiver stress.
February 20: Supporting Independence
Strategies to balance safety and autonomy, enabling loved ones to engage meaningfully in daily life.
March 20: Effective Communication and Behavior Response
Tips to manage dementia-related behavioral changes and improve communication with care recipients.
April 17: Exploring Care and Support
Insights into care options, including respite, residential, and end-of-life care, to help families plan confidently.
May 15: Dementia Conversations
Practical advice on discussing sensitive topics like medical diagnosis, driving safety, and legal planning.
June 26: Understanding Alzheimer’s
A deep dive into Alzheimer’s detection, brain health strategies, and the latest research on risk reduction.
Event Facilitators
Dominique McLaughlin, MA, LPC, CEAP, is a licensed mental health professional with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, specializing in Deafness, from Gallaudet University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Christopher Newport University. With a strong commitment to community service, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with compassion and serving others in many capacities. Dominique has always been passionate about community mental health and made a lasting impact at Region Ten Community Services Board, where she played a key role in providing emergency services and served as the Program Manager for the Access and Adult Clinical Services team.
Her personal journey as a caregiver for both her grandmother and mother has further fueled her dedication to giving back to others. This experience has inspired her to focus on supporting caregivers and promoting self-care within her community. Dominique is known for her strengths-based, solution-focused approach and is deeply passionate about helping others navigate the challenges of self-care and eldercare. She remains committed to ensuring that those in need receive the compassionate care and support necessary to thrive.
Brooke Gill is the Senior Program Manager at the Alzheimer's Association, Central and Western Virginia Chapter, with over 15 years in nonprofit management, fundraising, and community engagement. She leads educational outreach across 52 counties and serves as a regional Research Champion. Previously, Brooke held roles at United Way of Roanoke Valley and Ferrum College. She holds a Master of Arts from Hollins University and certifications in DEI, Nonprofit Leadership, and Dementia Care. Passionate about community service, Brooke fosters puppies for the Roanoke Valley SPCA and serves as Vice President of the Ferrum College Alumni Board.