"Know Your Org" is an informational series that spotlights some of the wonderful organizations in our community. This month, we are highlighting the Michigan Parkinson Foundation.
April is Parkinson Awareness Month, making this the perfect time to feature an organization doing so much for those facing this disease and their loved ones: the Michigan Parkinson Foundation. The Foundation acts as a link to the medical community and as a resource and advocate for those affected by Parkinson’s Disease and their families.
There is no specific test for Parkinson’s Disease (PD), making it hard to diagnose, and although there are treatments, there is no cure yet. Over 35,000 Michiganders are affected by PD.
One of the reasons organizations like the Michigan Parkinson Foundation are so needed is the toll the disease takes on both those afflicted with it and those who care for them. The Foundation offers support, care and assistance to those with Parkinson’s and their caregivers, so no one is facing the disease alone.
The Foundation’s Four Pillars
Everything the Foundation does is built on four pillars: Community, Exercise, Respite and Education.
Community. This pillar is all about eliminating the isolation someone can feel, especially when PD starts to eliminate their physical capacity and ability to speak clearly.
The mantra of this pillar is “you are not alone.” This is why the Foundation has 76 support groups across the state and provides services in all 83 Michigan counties. The support group’s monthly meetings often feature guest speakers on various Parkinson’s-related topics and provide a safe space to seek support and build connections within your local community.
Exercise. One of the best ways to slow the progression of PD and help manage the symptoms is through exercise.
To encourage exercise, the Foundation offers free virtual exercise classes on Zoom every Monday through Saturday at 10:00 AM. Anyone can register for these classes. They also offer in-person classes, including yoga, boxing, dance and PD-specific exercises. A complete list of classes and locations can be found on their website.
Respite. Being a caregiver can be hard, especially in the latter stages of the disease. The Foundation also takes care of the caregivers with respite care assistance, medication assistance, care consultations, mindfulness programs and other resources.
Their Respite Care Program provides additional support by giving the caregiver a break to recharge, take care of themselves or attend a social function while someone else provides care for their loved one.
Education. Until PD touches their lives in some way, most people know very little about Parkinson’s. The Foundation is dedicated to spreading awareness and providing educational resources for people with PD and their families.
They produce an educational packet full of ideas and information on managing Parkinson’s Disease. They also have a mentorship program that connects those with PD with others who understand their journey. Mentors can be found for both those with PD and for caretakers.
How You Can Help
Donations are always welcome, but here are some other ways you can provide assistance.
Be a volunteer. Like every nonprofit, the Michigan Parkinson Foundation could use more volunteers.
Areas you can volunteer for include Board Members, Professional Advisory Board Members, Support Group Facilitators and others within support groups, committees and task forces; assisting in the main office with clerical, resource and other functions; serving as speakers and handling office work.
Take part in a Parkinson Hero Walk. This is a team/pledge walking event to raise funds to support the Foundation’s critical work, which they provide free of charge. Last year’s event, held on September 13, 2025 at Jimmy John’s Field, raised over $342,000. Visit the website to learn more.
Host a community fundraiser. You, your organization or business can host your own fundraiser. You do the planning, and the Foundation will provide resources and information.
Don’t have any idea what to do? Here are some suggestions: Pancakes for Parkinson’s, a poker tournament, a garage sale, movie night or a banquet.
Parkinson’s Awareness Month happens in April because it is the birth month of Dr. James Parkinson, who first brought this condition to light. It is a month to raise awareness and understanding of the disease while honoring those living with it and their support system. A system that includes the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, an organization we are proud to have in our community.
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