OUR HISTORY
Alzheimers Coachella Valley was established in November 2017 by Pat Kaplan, Edie Keller, and Dom Calvano, along with a group of committed volunteers. Together, they recognized a critical gap in local services for families navigating Alzheimers and other forms of dementia.
They founded the organization with one goal in mind: to bring hope, support, and practical resources directly to the community in a welcoming and accessible way.
At the time, individuals facing memory loss in the Coachella Valley had limited options for support outside of clinical or hospital settings.
The founders envisioned a place where people could gather, learn, find emotional support, and access tools that help maintain dignity and quality of life. That vision quickly grew into what is now a trusted nonprofit offering education, early screening, social engagement, caregiver guidance, and culturally responsive programming
Our Mission Statement
Our goal is to provide ongoing support for patients, care partners and families in a safe environment to help navigate the changes inherent in dementia-related conditions and to retain a quality of life during the progression of the disease.
We offer professional and peer-led support groups — including the innovative Traveling the Journey Together, an 8-week series that encompasses both the patient and care partner. Caregiver support groups are available at senior centers and senior living communities throughout the Coachella Valley, as well as at our Palm Desert office.
Caregivers may also apply for Breathing Space scholarship awards for temporary care for their loved one while they attend ACV-sponsored programs. Our Care Advisors work closely with patients and families to develop care plans that include support groups, community resources and local referrals to help manage and plan for the challenges ahead.
Community outreach includes public education, speakers from business and community organizations, and state-approved Continuing Education Units for professional caregivers.
Impact Report
We are proud to share our annual Impact Report with you, highlighting the difference your support has made for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and related cognitive impairments across the Coachella Valley.
Please click the button below to view our full Impact Report for 2025!
ACV – A TIMELINE
2026: Today, Alzheimers Coachella Valley is a vital part of the regional care landscape. The team continues to expand programs, build partnerships, and advocate for those living with memory loss. The work is far from over, but the heart behind it has never changed.
2025: ACV’s outreach into the East Valley has grown significantly. This area is home to many Latinx families who often face cultural, language, and economic challenges when seeking dementia-related care. Through community presentations, partnerships with mobile clinics and service providers, and the addition of bilingual staff, ACV has made more than 800 direct contacts with residents in the East Valley.
2023: ACV opened the Coachella Valley’s first and only free Cognitive Screening Center. This program removed barriers like cost, insurance, and the need for referrals. Local residents can now receive timely screening and support without navigating complex medical systems.
2018: ACV relocated to a larger facility in Palm Desert to accommodate growing demand. This new home allowed the launch of Club Journey, a signature program that offers evidence-based interventions such as physical activity, music therapy, caregiver education, and memory-focused engagement in a safe and uplifting environment. The program also includes a shared lunch to foster meaningful social connections.
2017: ACV established; operated in a small location, holding support groups and educational sessions.