Why get involved?

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What are the main goals of OPWF?

Our mission is to create a supportive and empowering community for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers, enhancing their quality of life through resources, support, exercise, and opportunities for growth. We are dedicated to helping our members move better and feel better. 

Goals

Establishing a scholarship fund to provide financial support for individuals who cannot afford class fees

Offering classes for our individuals who are no longer able to move independently

Nurturing care partner support groups

Partnering with other Parkinson’s exercise groups such as yoga, Pilates, dance, drumming, and choir for people with PD.

Why should someone get involved?

We all know someone with Parkinson’s disease. It is an incurable, progressive neurological disorder that affects activities of daily living. There are 1,000 to 1,200 people living with Parkinson’s disease in Lane County.

With a population of 382,000 residents, this means that approximately 1 in every 318 people has PD.

Every larger cities in the US have Parkinson’s dedicated facilities catering to helping those members of the community with Parkinson’s. It is the fastest growing neurological disorder in the world.

Every year 90,000 people are newly diagnosed in the US alone

What kind of positive impact has this already had for the local Parkingson’s community? What have you already achieved?

The Oregon Parkinson’s Warriors Foundation (OPWF) has made significant strides in supporting the local Parkinson’s community. Since its establishment in May 2023, OPWF has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease in Lane County, Oregon.

Positive Impact and Achievements

Serving the Community

OPWF currently serves approximately 60 individuals each week, offering specialized exercise programs designed to improve mobility and overall well-being.

Fundraising Success

As of August 2024, the foundation has raised $140,000 to establish the first dedicated Parkinson’s gym facility in the Eugene area, demonstrating a strong commitment to expanding resources for the community.

Community Engagement

OPWF has fostered a supportive environment through group classes and one-on-one training, focusing on Parkinson’s-specific and researched exercises and non-contact boxing to enhance neuroplasticity and physical strength.

What are goals for future fundraising?

Future Fundraising Goals

Expanding Services

The foundation plans to establish a scholarship program and to offer discounts to ensure accessibility, train exercise professionals to lead science-based classes, and create a volunteer program to assist participants during sessions. 

Supporting Care Partners

OPWF intends to expand its support group for care partners, aiming to alleviate burdens on families and increase awareness and participation within the community. 

Expand the class offerings to include classes such as Choir, dance, yoga, Pilates all for people with Parkinson’s so they may come to exercise in the manner that moves them personally.

Through these initiatives, the Oregon Parkinson’s Warriors Foundation continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s disease, fostering a community of support, empowerment, and improved quality of life.

Words from our Warriors:

“I have been in boxing class for a year. The boxing class, with Lori Havas as the teacher, has become one of the most important parts of my life. It provides challenging, yet do-able exercises for strength, balance and coordination. Lori creates an atmosphere of support and fun that keeps us all going.”

-DON