Alter's Beginnings
The Alter program was created in 2019 to address the lack of resources and awareness around dementia in African American and faith communities in the state of Georgia. The Alter program is the guiding light for faith communities and caregivers to keep the spiritual connection strong and vibrant with those living with dementia. We work with faith communities to create dementia-friendly and inclusive environments.
Alter partners with faith communities to empower their work toward providing a supportive environment for families affected by dementia through education, environmental modifications, and implementation or expansion of dementia resources and support programs.
Our Mission
The Alter program's mission is to inspire and equip faith-based organizations anchored in African American communities to better support families affected by dementia and transform faith communities into Alter Champions. Alter is your trusted guide through your dementia-friendly journey.
Meet the Team
Fayron Epps, PhD, RN
Founder & Professor, UT Health San Antonio
Dr. Epps has devoted her career as a nurse leader to reducing health disparities for underserved populations through innovative, culturally relevant programs for the African American community. She works closely with an interdisciplinary team to promote quality of life for African Americans living with dementia and their family caregivers/care partners through self-care and meaningful activities. Dr. Epps oversees several faith-based research related projects and serves on the Board of Directors for the Southern Gerontological Society, the Alzheimer’s Association Georgia Chapter, and Meals on Wheels Atlanta.
Mia Chester, MA
Co-founder & Project Director
Adrianne Jones, MA
Public Relations Director
Janelle Gore, MPH
Community Outreach Director
Robbin Frazier
Minnesota Site Coordinator
Andrea Price, MPS, MBA
Virginia Site Coordinator
Paulita Edwards-Childs, BSW
Mississippi Site Coordinator
Dale Nunnery
Volunteer Coordinator
Melita Terry
Pennsylvania Site Coordinator
Shanae Rhodes, PhD, RN
Onboarding Coordinator
Volunteer
Volunteer with Alter and help us recruit and engage dementia friendly faith community partners. Getting started is easy, simply contact us at outreach@alterdementia.com.