M-Power U is a social program to promote well-being and independence for people who are experiencing mild memory loss, mild cognitive impairment, or early stage dementia (no diagnosis required).
Using fun, stimulating and creative activities, MPU offers you the opportunity to:
Syracuse Jewish Family Service (SJFS) at Menorah Park's “M-Power U — A Learning Community for Early Memory Loss” is for individuals who are experiencing cognitive changes, such as mild memory loss, mild cognitive impairment or early stage dementia. Participants come for a 4-hour session each week and learn practical skills in a friendly and supportive setting. Central to the program is the introduction of memory enhancement activities, compensatory strategies for memory loss, peer support, exercise, and socialization. Each section is limited to 15 participants to foster camaraderie and quality programming. Although the program activities are specifically for persons with early memory loss, supportive services such as information and referral, case management, and counseling can also be provided to family members.
The Parkinson's Community will take place on Tuesdays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. It aims to serve the needs of people affected by PD and empower them to take charge of their physical emotional and cognitive health to mitigate the impact of early cognitive changes and improve overall wellness.
The Brain Power Community highlights our holistic approach to memory care through memory and cognitive training, coping strategies, lifestyle skills, physical exercise, and educational presentations, as well as periodic excursions to cultural venues. This section started in 2017 and takes pace on Mondays from 9:30am - 1:30pm.
The Arts and Minds Community emphasizes creative self-expression, skill building, memory enhancement, emotional processing and communication through the arts. Participants engage in creative writing, painting, music, movement, and more, in a peer group setting with or without care partners. In the final hour, from 2:30-3:30 pm, care partners may e;lect to join us for the Arts & Minds Café with an expressive arts experience shared by all. (Fridays 11:30 am –3:30 pm)
Individuals who wish to participate or volunteer in our MPU can email Ellen Somers, SJFS Assistant Director at somerse@sjfs.org or call 315-446-9111, x 225, for further information.
The Brain Power Community and the Arts and Minds Community are provided at Menorah Park, 4101 East Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13214
The Parkinson's Community meets at the United Church of Christ in Bayberry/Liverpool.
MPU is the first program of its kind in Central New York. Seed funding was generously provided by from the Brookdale Foundation, which has promoted the creation of similar programs around the country to address the gap in services for persons with early memory loss. The Health Foundation for Western and Central New York has provided generous seed funding to launch the Parkinson's Community. Programs scholarships are funded by grants from the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA). The program is led by a team of professional staff and trained interns/volunteers.
Tuition varies by program, and discounts are offered for prepayment. Please inquire about scholarships made possible by our generous funders.
Transportation is available at an additional charge.
