Grant to fund Milton-based community outings for elderly residents with memory impairments enrolled in KANDU’s activity-based adult day services program
KANDU Industries announced the organization has received a generous award from the Milton Fund from the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin. This grant funding will allow elderly individuals in KANDU’s adult day services program to participate in community-based outings in Milton, Wis.
KANDU’s adult day services program serves “clients” (individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other disabilities) through an activities-based program model, which prioritizes community involvement to promote social engagement, physical activity, and mental stimulation. The grant from the Milton Fund will allow KANDU clients to participate in integrative and inclusive community outings at local businesses, organizations, restaurants, and more.
The Milton Fund was established in 1996 as a means for current and former residents to give back to the community through charitable contributions. The fund is advised by community volunteers, ensuring the available funding supports the specific needs of the community. Many local families are feeling the strain of navigating a recent Alzheimer’s diagnosis of an elderly parent, finding community resources are lacking.
Research indicates that by 2040, Rock County’s population of individuals age 85+ is expected to increase by 120 percent and the number of Rock County residents with dementia is expected to increase by 110 percent. Supportive care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias will be a critical issue for many families in Wisconsin.
KANDU recognizes the substantial responsibility, considerable time commitment, and emotional strain faced by caregivers responsible for family members with disabilities or memory impairments. By providing comprehensive support services, KANDU aims to alleviate some of the burdens experienced by caregivers, like a lack of accessible transportation. With highly certified staff and ADA-accessible buses, KANDU can safely transport clients with memory impairments to engage in the community, a task that is often difficult for caregivers.
Rosemary H., the primary caregiver for her husband, who participates in KANDU’s adult day services program, praises the robust monthly calendar of activities and community outings available to her husband, sharing, “KANDU has the experience and resources to keep my husband active. I wouldn’t be able to get him out like they do [at KANDU]. It’s a wonderful place for clients, and for caregivers who need a bit of respite.”
The grant from the Milton Fund will allow KANDU staff to plan Milton-based community outings to local restaurants like Sharla’s Coffee Shop and Cone Zone and activities like equine therapy and museums. These outings enable elderly individuals to participate in social interactions, practice daily living skills, and enjoy safe physical activities all while building confidence and independence.
“Our clients are very excited to move to our new facility in Milton this summer. This grant from the Milton Fund comes at a perfect time to provide opportunities for our elderly clients to increase familiarity with their new surroundings and create a wider local support network,” said KANDU Executive Director Kathy Hansen.
KANDU is grateful for the generous support of the Milton Fund, which shares a commitment to creating a thriving community where each individual can explore their full potential. KANDU’s adult day services program remains dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care for individuals with dementia and disabilities in southern Wisconsin.
