Dear Neuro Challenge Friend,
As the days grow shorter and, of course, the pace increases with holiday bustle, I hope you also take the time to celebrate the joy you’ve experienced. I am filled with gratitude, comfort, and wonder as the Neuro Challenge Foundation community concludes 2025 hitting all the right notes.
At Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s, we are dedicated to improving the quality of life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s, both those living with the disease and the care partners who support them. Thanks to generous donors like you, the services Neuro Challenge Foundation provides are always at no cost. Regardless of where families are in their journey with the disease, we ensure they never walk that path alone, supported with impactful essential programs. You’re making a difference, every day.
In 2025, Neuro Challenge Foundation programs grew in remarkable ways. We continued our mainstay programming while launching new programs across all counties, bringing education and support to more families than ever before. We served a record-breaking 3,500 individuals through our diverse programs.
Whether in person or online, Neuro Challenge Foundation provides resources and information that help improve life for people living with Parkinson’s. Our monthly education webinars and growing YouTube library extend this support to the wider virtual community, reaching people wherever they are.
WHERE WORDS FAIL, MUSIC SPEAKS
Hardly a secret, music has a profound impact on humanity. It can lend a distinct ability to communicate beyond the limitations presented by medical conditions, including Parkinson’s.
This idea is embraced in Off-Key Chorale, a collaboration with Key Chorale led by Artistic Director Joseph Caulkins, brings together people with Parkinson’s, their families, caregivers, and community volunteer singers. Through a series of sessions combining vocal and breathing exercises with themed musical selections, participants not only learn new skills but share a performance with friends, family, and the community.
Off-Key Chorale provides an opportunity for individuals with Parkinson’s to find a new voice, strengthening their own through the gift of song. It also provides social activity and fellowship, something often limited by Parkinson’s. When all of the elements meld, the joy is boundless.
We are thrilled that Off-Key Chorale has expanded to four additional counties, bringing its life-changing benefits to even more people in the Parkinson’s community.
Your support helps programs like Off-Key Chorale continue to empower, connect, and uplift those living with Parkinson’s.
MARCHING TO THE BEAT OF YOUR OWN DRUM
The Parkinson’s Expo is a pinnacle annual event for the Neuro Challenge Foundation community, bringing together people with Parkinson’s, care partners, family members, medical experts, and exhibitors under one roof to engage in traditional as well as innovative products and resources for living with Parkinson’s. This year, we added a truly special and joyful surprise on the mainstage.
Steve and Paisley from Giving Tree Music led a drum circle, inviting participants to play instruments like bam sticks and egg shakers, easy for anyone, even with dexterity challenges. Alone, the sounds are singular; when led together with purpose and care, the community created a musical voice that was thrilling and healing. The experience reminded everyone that connection, music, and community bring delight and strength—and that each person with Parkinson’s plays an important part in that community.
With your support, we can continue offering meaningful experiences that provide connection to people living with Parkinson’s and their families. By contributing to Neuro Challenge Foundation, you help provide free programs that truly make a difference. Together, we can ensure every person affected by Parkinson’s has the support and community they need to thrive.
To make your gift, please click here. We also welcome your pledge on the phone at 941-926-6413 and look forward to the opportunity to say “thank you.” Neuro Challenge Foundation is able to process gifts from Charitable IRA distributions or appreciated stocks as well.
Your gift can go even further with a 1:1 match from The Louis & Gloria Flanzer Philanthropic Trust. Whether you make a one-time donation or give monthly, your contribution may have twice the impact. Restrictions apply. Remember, donations made before the end of the year are eligible for tax deductions.
Again, thank you. The entire Neuro Challenge Foundation family is grateful for the advances and growth your support has provided those we serve, and we look forward to celebrating more milestones in the new year. As the music of the holiday season begins to play, I hope each note carries health and happiness to you and those you love.
Yours in the journey,
Jennifer Bitner
Chief Executive Officer
Neuro Challenge Foundation