Every month, we hold a Town Hall for residents to hear from our leadership team about what's happening at Friendship Haven and ask questions. We also invite someone from our community to speak about what they do.

Today’s agenda includes the Beacon of Hope Director, Brian Bidleman.

The first week of every month, a Iowa Chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association support group is held right here at Friendship Haven. It will be held from 11:30am - 12:30pm at the Schmoker Building (where Rock Steady Boxing is held).

If you're interested in participating, you can register online at apdaparkinson.org/ia.

If you have any questions, please reach out to either Program Manager Susan Callison at (515) 782-4386 or Support Group Leader Kourtney Lenz at (515) 573-6270.

Strength in optimism. Hope in progress.

Brady O’Brien returns to Friendship Haven for a special new year concert!

Join us on Monday, January 27 at 6:00 pm in the Tompkins Celebration Center for a night to remember!

A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease

Learn about Effects, Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease

Growing older is the greatest risk factor for acquiring Parkinson’s disease and many people live with symptoms for several years before being diagnosed. Often people in early stages of Parkinson’s disease assume their symptoms are part of normal aging or are due to other health problems they may have, such as arthritis. However, early Parkinson’s disease symptoms may not be that apparent and may even come and go. Frequently it is the spouse or other relatives who first notice slight problems with a loved one’s movements.

To learn about Parkinson’s disease, its effects, and possible treatments, register now to participate in “A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease” an educational series from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Webster County Extension, along with Iowa State’s Department of Kinesiology, and Human Sciences Extension and Outreach are sponsoring the series in Fort Dodge at Friendship Haven beginning January 8, 2025.

The educational series consists of three, 1-hour sessions held on Wednesdays in January. A team of Human Sciences specialists will teach the classes, which include interactive lessons, discussions, and activities. Sessions are scheduled for January 8,15,and 22 from 3 pm to 4 pm at Schmoker Building at Friendship Haven in Fort Dodge. There is a no fee for the program. For more information or to register contact Kourtney Lenz, Wellness at 515-573-6270 or email at kourtney.lenz@friendshiphaven.org .

“You will learn about the signs of Parkinson’s disease and how to seek medical care, as well as the cause of the disease and how specific treatments work. You will also learn about alternative therapies and in-home activities that can delay the progression of Parkinson’s disease, which is very important for continuing to live a full and happy life,” said Holly VanHeel, Human Sciences Specialist.

A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease

Learn about Effects, Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease

Growing older is the greatest risk factor for acquiring Parkinson’s disease and many people live with symptoms for several years before being diagnosed. Often people in early stages of Parkinson’s disease assume their symptoms are part of normal aging or are due to other health problems they may have, such as arthritis. However, early Parkinson’s disease symptoms may not be that apparent and may even come and go. Frequently it is the spouse or other relatives who first notice slight problems with a loved one’s movements.

To learn about Parkinson’s disease, its effects, and possible treatments, register now to participate in “A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease” an educational series from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Webster County Extension, along with Iowa State’s Department of Kinesiology, and Human Sciences Extension and Outreach are sponsoring the series in Fort Dodge at Friendship Haven beginning January 8, 2025.

The educational series consists of three, 1-hour sessions held on Wednesdays in January. A team of Human Sciences specialists will teach the classes, which include interactive lessons, discussions, and activities. Sessions are scheduled for January 8,15,and 22 from 3 pm to 4 pm at Schmoker Building at Friendship Haven in Fort Dodge. There is a no fee for the program. For more information or to register contact Kourtney Lenz, Wellness at 515-573-6270 or email at kourtney.lenz@friendshiphaven.org .

“You will learn about the signs of Parkinson’s disease and how to seek medical care, as well as the cause of the disease and how specific treatments work. You will also learn about alternative therapies and in-home activities that can delay the progression of Parkinson’s disease, which is very important for continuing to live a full and happy life,” said Holly VanHeel, Human Sciences Specialist.

Every month, we hold a Town Hall for residents to hear from our leadership team about what's happening at Friendship Haven and ask questions. We also invite someone from our community to speak about what they do.

Today’s agenda includes Board Chair Matt Johnson and CEO/President/Head Coach Julie Thorson!