St. John’s Launches Public Phase of “Embracing Dementia Together” Campaign with Inspiring Community Event
Rochester, NY–Community leaders, families, residents, donors, and partners joined St. John’s staff on Sunday, February 15, for an inspiring afternoon titled “Illuminating Hope: A Community Gathering for Dementia Care.” The event marked the official kickoff of the public phase of St. John’s Embracing Dementia Together Capital Campaign in support of the Charlie and Kathy Runyon Dementia Resource Center.
Hosted by Campaign Chairs Nancy Adams and Maureen McGuire, the gathering celebrated both how far the campaign has already come — including securing naming support for the Center — and the powerful vision still ahead.
A Shared Vision for Dementia Care in Rochester
Guests gathered in the St. John’s Home auditorium for remarks from community leaders, including:
- Campaign Chairs Nancy Adams and Maureen McGuire
- Ann Marie Cook, President of Lifespan
- Dr. Dallas Nelson, URMC Geriatrics
- St. John’s Foundation Board President Tom Gears
- Charlie Runyon, former CEO of St. John’s
Speakers emphasized the urgent and growing need for dementia support services in our region and the importance of creating a dedicated, welcoming hub where caregivers and individuals living with dementia can find guidance, education, respite, and hope.
The Charlie and Kathy Runyon Dementia Resource Center will serve as a community-based resource open to all — not just St. John’s residents — providing:
- Caregiver education and support programs
- Respite opportunities
- Technology demonstrations to enhance safety and independence
- Specialized programming designed for individuals living with dementia
- A physical space for connection, learning, and compassion
Lighting Hope — Together
One of the most moving moments of the afternoon occurred at 2:15 p.m., when campaign chairs led a ceremonial “lighting of lights for hope.” The symbolic act represented the collective commitment of our community to ensure that no family faces dementia alone.
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a dessert reception with music, toured the future Center space with volunteers and staff, and engaged in several interactive experiences designed to reflect the heart of the campaign:
- An interactive mural wall where guests added hearts and squares symbolizing their support for dementia care
- A technology demonstration showcasing tools that can help families navigate life at home with dementia
- A “Memory Lane” photo booth featuring nostalgic décor that sparked conversation and shared stories
A Milestone Moment
The February 15 event marked an important milestone in St. John’s 125-year legacy of serving older adults. With strong early philanthropic momentum already secured, the public launch invites the broader community to join in shaping the future of dementia support in Rochester.
The Charlie and Kathy Runyon Dementia Resource Center will stand as a beacon of education, innovation, and compassionate care — a place where caregivers find strength, where individuals living with dementia are honored with dignity, and where our community comes together to embrace living at every stage of life.
To learn more about the Embracing Dementia Together Campaign or to make a gift, visit:
www.stjohnsliving.org/embracing-dementia/