Nonprofit Launches Dementia Gatherings in Chicago
EngAGE Beverly provides themed discussions and cognitive exercises for adults with dementia at Bethany Union Church.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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Julie Singler has established EngAGE Beverly, a new nonprofit offering structured social gatherings for adults with dementia. The organization recently held its inaugural sessions at the Bethany Union Church in Chicago.
Why it matters
The organization aims to provide dignity-focused social engagement for individuals living with dementia. These gatherings also serve to offer needed respite for primary caregivers.
Founding members who sign up in October pay a monthly fee of $675, which increases to $800 for later enrollees. The program at 1750 W. 103rd St. is an affiliate of the Seattle-based Old Friends Club.
The players
Julie Singler
She is the founder of EngAGE Beverly who established the nonprofit after struggling to locate local resources for her father-in-law.
EngAGE Beverly
This is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that serves as an affiliate of the Seattle-based Old Friends Club.
Bethany Union Church
This facility hosts the twice-weekly gatherings for adults with dementia in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago.
The details
The program features twice-weekly gatherings where facilitators lead participants through themed discussions and cognitive exercises. These sessions are designed to foster social interaction while providing support for those acting as primary caregivers.
Timeline
The nonprofit held its inaugural weekly gatherings last week.
Founding members can secure a $675 monthly rate through October 2026.
Health Landscape
The launch of EngAGE Beverly follows a model established by the Old Friends Club to standardize social care for those with cognitive decline. This local expansion reflects a growing trend in community-based support structures for aging populations.
Caregivers in the Chicago area can now access twice-weekly structured activities to support their loved ones while gaining personal respite time. Families should note the $675 enrollment fee is available only for members who register during the month of October.
The takeaway
This initiative provides a structured social outlet for individuals with dementia that emphasizes personal dignity. Interested families should consider the upcoming enrollment fee increase to ensure they qualify for the founding member rate.
Further reading
For more information on similar support services, visit the Alzheimer’s section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Block Club Chicago.
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Do you believe community-led support programs are a better solution for dementia care than institutional facilities?
