A Program Built on Love. A Future Built on Hope.
In Marion County, there are 14,000 individuals living with dementia. Caregivers face each day with courage—but too often, without enough support or education. This is where the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program comes in.
Only the second in the country, Hospice of Marion County’s Center on the Helen “Mimi” Walker Campus will provide that education and care. Our Florida legislators saw the importance of this Center and in the 2024 session appropriated $375,000 toward this initiative. Our goal is to raise $1.7 million, and $1.3 million has been raised!
We invite you to hear the voices of those who know the impact and need firsthand—and to join us in building a place where caregivers and loved ones living with dementia can find help, healing, and hope.
Imagine a center that provides:
- Education for Caregivers
- Adult Day Services for individuals living with dementia
- Memory Cafes and Support Groups
Be a part of this historical project! Donate today for building hope for tomorrow.
A Story That Began at Home
“I wanted to create a legacy, and I recognized a need.” — John Renyhart
John Renyhart cared for his late wife, Nancy, through nine years of Alzheimer’s. After her passing, he made it his mission to help others walking a similar path. His wife Diane reminds us that dementia touches nearly every family—it’s a growing challenge that demands more support.
The Need We See Coming
“We need to plan ahead for a community that is aging and growing exponentially.” — Dr. Mery Lossada
Dr. Mery Lossada, Chief Medical Officer for Empath’s Hospice of Marion County, sees what’s ahead. Marion County’s aging population is growing—and so is the need for dementia education and care. The Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program is already changing lives. This new building will allow us to do even more.
The Missing and Essential Piece
“This commitment by Empath Hospice of Marion County is what’s going to drive the solution.” — Ken Daley
Ken Daley, board leader and community advocate, puts it simply: the missing piece between the problem and the solution is education. This new building will bring that education to life. It’s the place where people can learn. Where caregivers will be supported. Where compassion will grow.
The Difference Education Makes
“I’m still learning, but it’s helped me understand what someone with dementia is going through.” — George Hanst
When George became a caregiver, he didn’t know where to start. Through the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program, he gained tools, confidence, and understanding. Now, he knows how to care for his loved one—and himself.
When First Responders Understand Dementia
“The care first responders can provide for people with dementia is so much better now than it was before.” — Captain Jesse Blaire
Before the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program, first responders in Ocala weren’t trained to handle dementia. Thanks to the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program, over 150 firefighters, including Captain Jesse Blaire, have been educated.
The results? Safer homes. Fewer 911 calls. Families who feel seen and supported.
Support Where it’s Needed Most
“When I heard about this center, I knew that they have it all figured out. All they need now, is some fuel.” — Lilly Nelson Maxwell
The moment Lilly Nelson Maxwell, Board member for Hospice of Marion County Foundation, learned about the plans for the new HMC Center for the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education program, she knew that it had the potential to be one of the best programs to support those affected by dementia.
The center will not only offer education and training for caregivers, but will also provide comprehensive curriculum for active brain engagement for individuals living with dementia.
Together, we’ll build something extraordinary—for today and for every tomorrow.
Your gift helps secure the future of life-changing dementia education and care to thousands who need it each year and is tax deductible as allowed by law. Thank you!
If you’d like to:
- Learn more about the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program.
- Share your HMC dementia story.
- Take a tour of the new building.
- Engrave a brick in memory or in honor of a loved one.
- Include Hospice of Marion County Foundation in your estate plans.