In this edition of our newsletter we’re shining a light on caregiving — the quiet, powerful work that so many in our community carry every day. Whether you’re caring for a partner, parent, friend, child, or neighbor, you are not alone — and you deserve support, too.

In partnership with Pierce County, we’re introducing a new class designed to provide practical tools, education, and peer connection for those caring for a loved one.

Community Dementia Classes

Adults typically keep an eye out for changes in behavior or memory loss in their parents. Older adults worry about remembering names, appointments, directions – even what they had for breakfast this morning. Even though such concerns may not mean someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia, it is wise to be aware.

The numbers are staggering. Almost 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today. In 30
years, that number is expected to rise to 14 million. But when a family member is diagnosed, that one person becomes the most important individual in the world for that family.

“About 500,000 more Americans are diagnosed with dementia every year,” said Aaron Van 
Valkenburg, manager of Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources. “Most family caregivers are
unprepared to manage the daily challenges that take place in supporting someone suffering with 
dementia. Learning how to provide proper care for your family member, while maintaining care for
yourself, are necessary components to managing such a difficult situation.”

Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources hosts a new series of the popular “Oh My Gosh – Now What?” seminar beginning Tuesday, April 7, 2026. The 6-part series of discussions is designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia, families, caregivers, and others focusing on the initial journey of memory loss. Attendees will learn the warning signs and symptoms, managing behaviors, the disease progress, legal concerns, financial issues, and local resources. All sessions are held live and in-person from 11:15 am – 12:15 pm at the Mustard Seed Project located at 9016-154th Avenue Ct. NW, Key Center, WA 98349.

Sessions are free and open to all with no RSVP needed to attend.

• April 7th – “What is Dementia? What are the warning signs?”
• April 14th – “How does the disease progress? What should I expect?”
• April 21st – “How do I start the conversation? How do I cope with the shock?”
• April 28th – “What are the typical moods and behaviors? How do I manage them?”
• May 5th – “How do I pay for care? What are the legal things I should do?”
• May 12th – “Where can I turn for help? What are the resources I can rely on?”

Sessions are led by Jessica Girard and Kris Dowling, expert case managers with Aging and Disability Resources, who specialize in providing practical help to individuals and families coping with memory loss.

“Oh My Gosh – Now What?” is sponsored by the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource 
Center. For more information, call the Aging and Disability Resource Center at (253) 798-4600.

Life After Loss- Grief Support Group

Healing together through shared experiences.

Life After Loss- Grief Support Group at the Mustard Seed Project every second Monday of the month at 12:00pm. This supportive group offers a safe and compassionate space for individuals grieving the loss of a loved one.

-Share your feelings openly and honestly: In a confidential setting, you can express your emotions without judgment.
-Find comfort and support: Connect with others who understand the complexities of grief and offer a listening ear.
-Reduce feelings of isolation: Discover that you are not alone in your journey.

Caregiver Academy

The spring 2026 session of Caregiver Academy at the Mustard Seed Project will take place April 20th- May 29th. This session will be a new online and in-person hybrid format.

A majority of the 75 hours will be completed online, at your own pace, with your own schedule. You will have access to the class instructor for questions and guidance throughout the session. There will also be four in-person, hands-on learning days.

At the end of the program, participants will have all the required hours and training to become a Certified Home Care Aide.
The instructor will help schedule the final exam, which is completed off-site. Upon successful completion of the exam, the Mustard Seed Project will reimburse participants for the exam fee.

Next, participants may choose to continue their education by enrolling in additional programs, such as CNA training or other healthcare certifications. They can also receive support from our instructor in beginning their job search for caregiver positions. Alternatively, participants may decide to work independently as Certified Home Care Aides.

The class fee is $75 and we have scholarships available.

This program is made possible by support from The Rotary Club of Gig Harbor and Homewatch CareGivers.

To register or for more information email programs@themustardseedproject.org

Caregiver Academy

Foot Care Clinic

Legal Aid

Drop-in information and legal assistance from experts at Tacomaprobono
• Basic legal questions
• Landlord- tenant issues
• Family law
• Advice, resources, next steps

2nd Tuesday monthly at the Mustard Seed Project
1pm-3pm

Walk-ins welcome
9016 154th Ave Ct NW
Lakebay, WA 98349