Dementia Enrichment Center

In January 2024, the Dementia Enrichment Center opened its doors based on my vision and hope for connecting and improving the lives of caregivers and people with dementia in our community. I created a program unlike any other, and with the encouragement of my husband David Peek and support of my oldest daughter, Valerie Knapp, I followed my heart and set my sights on being a trailblazer, an advocate, a community builder, and a difference maker.

I worked 90+ hour weeks for over a year, answered calls from beaches to mountain tops, networked with our amazing community of providers, and before I knew it, we became a staple resource. We were honored to be so welcomed into the community as referrals came in from agencies, providers and community members. Ladies enrolled, then our first male participant, then we celebrated a diverse mix. We rejoiced as we served participants from 54 to 97 years old, originating from Japan, Germany, Mexico, and the USA. We stood in awe as participants came from Kempner to Rogers and Troy to Georgetown. Our jaws dropped when our 20th participant registered, then our 50th, then our 70th. We marveled at the dynamic specialists who joined our staff and we continue to be amazed by their skill and heart. We delighted with interns and students who brought creative and fun ideas to our days. We were astounded when we were gifted a backyard renovation that created a spectacular therapeutic space. We celebrated and navigated with the dedicated caregivers who attended our events, support groups and classes. Our hearts broke when our friends passed away, yet we felt comfort that their bodies and minds would be whole once again. We treasured every person and family who welcomed us to walk alongside in their dementia journey.

Today marks a significant day for Dementia Enrichment Center as Valerie and I step away from our roles as leaders and pass the torch on to Emily Greer Gary and Jonathan Gary. Our hearts are so full, so overflowing, with amazement, gratitude, and love. We thank you--each and every one of you--for your support, your encouragement, your kindness, your amazing strength and resilience, and your raw vulnerability. Thank you for opening your doors to us, for welcoming us into your most private spaces, and for trusting us to be your ally. Thank you for speaking to others about our work, for your generous donations of time and money, for your continued attendance and engagement. YOU have made this dream come true, and we are excited to watch Emily and Jonathan continue our legacy and grow our presence and impact.

My work in this field will continue. I've taken steps to franchise Dementia Enrichment Center's model, with the goal of taking our work into communities across our state and country. I will also be working as a hospice social worker and continue as a therapist in Belton. I may even pursue a doctoral degree in the coming year! Valerie is focusing on parenting and pursuing her work with animals. We are still in the area, and hope to run into you!

We love you more than you will ever know.
Be blessed,
Hailey