Officially founded in 2020, FTT brings together FTD & dementia care resources, knowledge and storytelling in order to interrupt the “status quo” and ensure dignity, understanding, and a future of proactive dementia care and brain health for all.
With the tools, resources and community to care for their loved one living with dementia.
And lay the groundwork for change. Dementia is daunting—imagine living it. By fostering understanding, we empower each other to move beyond discomfort and make meaningful change.
Cancer was once referred to as “the big C,” often mentioned in hushed tones. Now, we come together to support one another with heartfelt gestures like meal trains. When dementia evokes a similar reaction, families will get the support they so desperately need and deserve.
To shift the narrative from lost to empowered and allow families to focus on what matters most.
Demystify dementia, instill empathy, and ensure caregivers are seen and supported; especially FTD and young onset.
A world where the term “dementia” evokes action, access to structured care and support, and quality treatments exist.
COMPASSION: Leading with listening, learning, and acting with heart to eliminate stigma and uplift families.
COMMUNITY: Dementia is often called “The Long Goodbye.” Caregiving is a journey no family should walk alone.
CURIOSITY: Asking questions and challenging assumptions leads to new perspectives, clarity, and improved quality of care.
Dear Mom,
The medical system diagnosed you through a letter in the mail. Friends and family felt helpless and uncertain how to engage. Forever keystone to our family, you cared for us, we cared for you, and now it's time to care for others.
In our hearts and in our steps,
The Halls
With 16 years of leadership and program development experience at the Department of Defense, I’ve built a career around innovation, service, and sustainability. A Pittsburgh native who found purpose through trail running, whitewater kayaking, and caregiving, I now channel that same drive into supporting families affected by dementia. My journey as a co-caregiver for my mom, diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia at 55, opened my eyes to the isolation so many families face. Honoring her memory is my guiding light, and my mission is to make tomorrow a little better for every caregiver—I'm on a mission and it's personal.
My voices feels tiny and I’m sure so does yours.
But put us all together and we make a might ROAR.
--Rising Appalachia
In a world full of princesses I want to be Batman. An Earth trekker who enjoys a good campfire, is attempting to learn the guitar and would love to be a pie connoisseur. With close to twenty years of hospitality and events experience; I aim to bring creative ideas to fundraising events and an understanding of dementia to the masses. There are many reasons why For Their Thoughts Foundation is significant to me but the reason that drives me the most are the caregivers. The more I learn about their daily struggles and perseverance the more I want to send them support especially when they feel so separated from the world.
An economics and accounting major. After working with Samsung Electronics and Sentynl Therapeutics, I co-founded For Their Thoughts Foundation to support families affected by dementia—a cause close to my heart as my grandfather faces Alzheimer’s disease. Outside of work, I enjoy volleyball, craft beer, and exploring new cultures through travel.
We could not do it without our board members, staff, and advocates
I bring over 40 years of business management experience in retail, franchising, and direct mail marketing, including leadership roles at Mail Boxes Etc. (now The UPS Store) and Modern Postcard. As a former board member of the Encinitas Boys and Girls Club, I’ve always been passionate about community involvement and volunteer work across San Diego County. Now, as a devoted caregiver to my wife living with Alzheimer’s disease, I draw on both my professional background and personal journey to advocate for and support other dementia caregivers through For Their Thoughts Foundation. “Our loved one’s brains are involuntarily changing; we must intentionally change ours.”
I’m excited to bring my psychology background and professional experience together to inspire & help shape the next generation’s understanding of dementia, brain health and empathy. My work supporting student success and leading teams in dynamic environments has strengthened my belief in the power of compassion, education, and human connection.
Our bench both locally and afar is why we can do what we do. Forever grateful for our all-star volunteers, Movers and board
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
