Your PAC Community: Growing, Connecting, and Making an Impact
At the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas (PAC), every connection matters. Whether it’s a person attending their first exercise class, a care partner finding support, or a family reaching out through our Resource Hotline, PAC is here to provide resources, education, and hope at every step of the Parkinson’s journey. As we look ahead to an exciting fall season, we invite you to join us for our biggest educational event of the year, the 2026 Signature Symposium on Saturday, September 19. This free event brings together individuals living with Parkinson’s, care partners, healthcare professionals, and community members for a day filled with expert education, meaningful connections, and valuable resources.
The Signature Symposium is just one example of how PAC continues to fulfill our mission across the Carolinas. Over the past year, we have expanded our reach by providing 624 movement therapy and exercise classes, supporting more than 67 Parkinson’s support groups, hosting 10 community presentations, engaging 665 individuals in education and support programs, welcoming more than 480 participants at our 2026 MoveIt! Walks, and responding to more than 600 calls and emails through our Resource Hotline. Behind every number is a person whose life has been touched by PAC – someone finding support, building connections, and discovering they are not alone in their Parkinson’s journey. Thank you for being part of our Parkinson’s community and helping make this impact possible.
Tools for Your Journey: Education & Support Programs
We invite you to join us for PAC’s August programs designed to support, educate, and connect the Parkinson’s community.
Virtual Support Group: Dementia in Parkinson’s/Lewy Body Dementia
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Online via Zoom
This month’s Virtual Support Group will feature Rachel T. Rose, MOT, OTR/L, Education Manager at the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA), who will discuss Lewy Body Dementia which includes Parkinson’s disease dementia. Participants will learn how these conditions differ, explore common cognitive, movement, sleep, and behavioral symptoms, and better understand how they compare to Alzheimer’s disease.
Wellness Wednesday: Changes in Relationships Dynamics
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Online via Zoom
This month’s Wellness Wednesday will explore how relationships change as a result of Parkinson’s disease and offer practical strategies for navigating those changes. Presented by Dr. Sarah Cook, Duke University Director of Clinical Neuropsychology, this webinar is an excellent opportunity for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their care partners to learn and connect together.
Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) Support Group
Thursday, August 20, 2026 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Hybrid: PAC Office (2101 Sardis Road North, Suite 102, Charlotte, NC) OR Online via Zoom
The Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) Support Group explores connection, shared understanding, and practical support for individuals living with YOPD. Designed to address the unique challenges of navigating Parkinson’s at a younger age — including career, family, and long-term planning considerations — this welcoming space offers meaningful conversation, encouragement, and the reminder that you don’t have to face this journey alone.
We’re excited to announce that registration for our 2026 Caring for Parkinson’s – Caring for You Signature Symposium is now open! Join us this September for one of the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas’ most anticipated events of the year!
💙 Caring for Parkinson’s – Caring for You Signature Symposium Saturday, September 19, 2026 Providence United Methodist Church, Charlotte, NC
Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s, caring for a loved one, or supporting someone on their journey, this annual event is designed to educate, empower, and connect you with community and resources. Spend the day learning from expert speakers, discovering valuable resources, and connecting with others who understand your journey. You will leave inspired with practical tools to support living your best with Parkinson’s today.
As always, the Signature Symposium is free to attend. Light morning snacks and lunch will be provided. For those considering coming from outside of the Charlotte area, there will be a courtesy hotel block available a few miles away.
Visit our website for more information and to register parkinsonassociation.org/event/symposium2026/. We’ll see you on September 19!
PAC is proud to partner with Smart Patients, an online community for patients and care partners affected by Parkinson’s community.
The online peer-to-peer support of the Smart Patients Parkinson’s Disease Community complements PAC’s support and resources, to make a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson’s and their loved ones.
Join Smart Patients, ask questions for yourself, and support others who can learn from your experiences.
Did you miss one of PAC’s virtual programs? You can catch up anytime by visiting the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas YouTube Channel, where selected recordings are available to watch.
Be sure to subscribe so you’ll be notified when new content is posted!
Need help registering for a program? Call us at (980) 245-2786 or toll-free at (866) 903-PARK (7275). Our team will be happy to assist you.
Find a Support Group
Living with Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. PAC maintains a listing of support groups across the Carolinas for individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners. These groups provide a safe and welcoming space to share experiences, learn from others, and build meaningful connections within the community. To learn more about a support group near you, call us at (980) 245-2786 or email gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org.
Free Resource Hotline
Need answers or support? PAC’s Free Resource Line is here to help. Staffed by a PAC team member Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, this service provides reliable information, local resources, referrals, and details about our cost-free programs.
Give us a call at (866) 903-PARK (7275) or email pac@parkinsonassociation.org to connect with the support you need.
Get Moving with PAC: Movement Therapy Programs
Exercise and movement are powerful tools for living well with Parkinson’s. Regular participation can improve balance, flexibility, strength, and overall quality of life. PAC is proud to sponsor a variety of exercise and movement therapy classes each month, designed to meet you where you are and keep you moving forward.
To join in, please contact the individual instructors listed below for class details and registration. You can also explore the full list of PAC-sponsored exercise classes on our website.
Looking for even more options? Additional exercise programs are available throughout the Carolinas. Find classes in North Carolina, South Carolina, and online or call 980-245-2786 or email gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org to learn more.
Notable and New This Month:
PAC will be sponsoring PWR!Moves on Mondays at Back to Independence Rehab in Charlotte.
Aminta’s Thursday yoga class in Rock Hill will be changing locations, days and times! Starting on August 5, the class will meet on Wednesdays at 10:00 AM at Woodland United Methodist Church Wellness Center, located at 801 North Cherry Road, Rock Hill, SC.
Disclaimer: We ask that you practice caution when participating in all programs, particularly exercise programs. Talk to your doctor about what program would be best for you, stay hydrated, exercise in a safe environment, move at your own pace, and try to exercise with a partner or an accredited instructor.
As part of the Moving with the PAC Challenge, we encourage you to safely step outside your routine and explore a different movement or exercise program. Whether you participate online or in person, PAC offers more than 50 movement and exercise classes each month designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s disease. In addition to Yoga for Parkinson’s, Dance for Parkinson’s, Pedaling for Parkinson’s, and PWR!Moves, classes like Rock Steady Boxing, UpENDing Parkinson’s (rock climbing), Pickleball for Parkinson’s, and others offer something for every interest and ability level.
One of the best ways to stay motivated is to find something you like and even try something new! Already have a favorite class?
Consider trying a new class in your community. Every step, stretch, pedal, punch, and dance move helps you stay active and engaged. Continue tracking your progress throughout the year as part of the Moving with the PAC Challenge, and see where your movement journey takes you!
Ready to get moving? Find a movement or exercise class near you at parkinsonassociation.org/exerciseonline and learn more about the Moving with the PAC Challenge at parkinsonassociation.org/2026-moving-with-the-pac-challenge/.
Share your progress with us by posting your movement tracker or a picture on social media and tagging PAC or sending us an email.
Make an Impact: Partnering with PAC
PAC's Mission in Motion
We're Growing! Join the PAC Team
As the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas (PAC) continues to grow, so does our commitment to serving individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease throughout the Carolinas. To help us expand our reach and strengthen our programs, we’re excited to announce that we’re hiring a Remote Part-Time Program Coordinator based in South Carolina. This new position will play an important role in supporting educational programs, movement and exercise classes, community outreach, support groups, and fundraising events while helping PAC continue to expand services across the Carolinas.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and enjoy building relationships, coordinating programs, and supporting a mission-driven nonprofit, we’d love to hear from you. Join our dedicated team and help us continue providing trusted resources, education, and support to the Parkinson’s community. Click here to view the full job description and apply today.
PAC Connects with Columbia Parkinson's Support Group
Joanna, Gillian, and Charlie recently had the opportunity to visit with Karen and Kay from the Columbia Parkinson’s Support Group to strengthen relationships and explore ways to work together in support of individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease. It was a wonderful opportunity to share ideas, learn more about the needs of the local community, and discuss future collaboration.
The Columbia Parkinson’s Support Group serves several counties throughout the Midlands of South Carolina and meets on the third Sunday of each month at 3:00 PM in the Lexington Medical Park 1 Auditorium. PAC looks forward to partnering with this dedicated group to expand resources and support for the Parkinson’s community across the region.
PAC Visits Charlotte Care Partner Support Group
Last month, Gillian had the opportunity to visit a Parkinson’s care partner support group at Cresswind Active Adult Community in Charlotte to share information about PAC’s free programs, services, and resources available to care partners.
While the presentation provided valuable information, what stood out most was the sense of community within the group. Care partners shared experiences, offered encouragement, and supported one another through the unique challenges of caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease. These meaningful connections remind us that no one has to navigate the caregiving journey alone, and PAC is honored to be a resource for care partners throughout the Carolinas.
PAC Represents the Carolinas at IPN's Parkinson's Leadership Summit
PAC is part of the Independent Parkinson’s Network (IPN), a group of regional non-profit organizations from across the country that work together to share best practices, valuable resources, and take collective action toward improving the quality of life for those impacted by Parkinson’s disease. This is guided by the shared understanding that strategic collaboration will improve local organizational effectiveness and deepen national impact.
Joanna Chantemerle, our Executive director, had the opportunity to attend their Leadership Summit in Denver Colorado in July, sharing ideas, resources and experiences to make each of us stronger and more productive in our regions.
Strengthening Community Connections in Monroe
As part of PAC’s ongoing commitment to connecting with communities across the Carolinas, Gillian recently visited the Monroe Parkinson’s Support Group to share information about PAC’s free programs and services while answering participants’ questions about Parkinson’s disease and available resources.
The Monroe Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the third Monday of each month at noon at the Monroe Aquatic & Fitness Center, providing a welcoming space for individuals and families to connect, learn, and support one another. PAC values opportunities to visit local support groups and build relationships that help expand access to education and resources. If your support group would like to learn more about PAC or you’re interested in starting a support group in your community, we’d love to connect. Contact Gillian Schultz, Program Director, at (980) 245-2786 or gschultz@parkinsonassociation.org to learn how PAC can support your group.
Beyond the Carolinas: Community Education Corner
In addition to PAC’s local offerings, we’re pleased to highlight educational webinars and resources from respected regional and national organizations. These free virtual sessions and events provide valuable insights into living well with Parkinson’s and often cover topics relevant to overall wellness, caregiving, and brain health.
Free Webinar: Eliciting Patient Healthcare Goals
📅 Wednesday, August 12, 2026
🕑 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM | Online via Zoom
This webinar explores advance care planning and how to have meaningful conversations about future healthcare decisions. Learn the difference between advance care planning and advance directives while gaining practical communication strategies and resources to help individuals express their values, goals, and preferences for care.
Hosted by Centralina Area Agency on Aging
Free Webinar: Can Parkinson’s Disease Be Inherited?
Thursday, August 20, 2026
12:00 PM | Online via Zoom
This webinar explores how genetics can influence the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease and the important role genetic research plays in advancing new treatments. Learn how researchers are using genetics to better understand why Parkinson’s develops and progresses, and how these discoveries may help guide the development of more personalized and effective therapies for everyone living with the disease.
Hosted by The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
Parkinson's Community News
Staying informed is key to living well with Parkinson’s. Explore the latest research breakthroughs, innovative therapies, helpful resources, and news that support every step of your Parkinson’s journey. You’ll also find opportunities to get involved in studies shaping the future of care. Click the headlines below to learn more and stay connected!
Trial of fast-tracked new Parkinson’s cell therapy hits ‘critical’ step
Aspen Neuroscience has completed dosing for the third and fourth groups of participants in its ASPIRO clinical trial evaluating sasineprocel (ANPD001), a personalized cell therapy designed to replace dopamine-producing neurons lost in Parkinson’s disease. The Phase 1/2a trial has now treated 15 people with Parkinson’s and is testing a new “thaw-and-inject” formulation designed to improve manufacturing and delivery. Early findings suggest the therapy has been generally safe and well tolerated, with researchers continuing to evaluate its potential to improve motor symptoms and quality of life. Read More
Parkinson’s disease taught me to find joy in ordinary moments
Parkinson’s disease is often associated with its most visible symptoms, but for many families, the journey includes moments of connection, gratitude, and unexpected joy. In this reflection, the author shares how their father’s Parkinson’s diagnosis changed their family’s perspective, encouraging them to be more present and appreciate the small moments that can often go unnoticed. While Parkinson’s brings challenges and uncertainty, it can also highlight the importance of shared laughter, meaningful conversations, and finding joy in everyday experiences. Read More
Blood markers may help predict dementia risk in Parkinson’s disease
New research suggests that two blood-based protein markers, pTau217 and pTau231, may help doctors better understand dementia risk in people with Parkinson’s disease. In a study following 109 people with Parkinson’s who did not have dementia at the start, researchers found that higher levels of these markers were associated with an increased likelihood of developing dementia over time. While more research is needed before these biomarkers can be used in clinical care, the findings could lead to improved risk assessment and earlier support for individuals experiencing cognitive changes related to Parkinson’s. Read More
In Memoriam: Honoring Our Parkinson’s Community
We recognize that the Parkinson’s journey touches not only those living with the disease, but also the families, friends, and loved ones who walk alongside them. In this space, we honor and remember members of our Parkinson’s community who have passed away.
This In Memoriam section is a way to celebrate their lives, share their stories, and acknowledge the lasting impact they’ve had on those around them. We invite families and loved ones to submit a tribute to recognize someone special who has been part of our community.
If you would like to learn more about including a loved one in this section, please contact:
Charlie Godfrey
Development Director
📧 cgodfrey@parkinsonassociation.org
📞 (980) 245-2786
We are honored to help preserve and share the memories of those who will always remain part of the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas community.
Update your PAC Communication Preferences
We’re updating our emails to match your preferences, so you only receive the updates that matter most. Quickly choose the types of emails you want, like the monthly newsletter, programs & events, donor updates, volunteer opportunities, or special communications, to stay informed and avoid messages that aren’t relevant to you. It only takes a few seconds and ensures you never miss important PAC updates.
Stay Connected with PAC Online
How can I engage with PAC on social media?
Follow PAC on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or X (formerly Twitter) for the latest updates on Parkinson’s disease and how PAC supports you. Click Follow or Like so PAC’s posts appear in your newsfeed. When you see a post, let us know you enjoyed it by tapping the thumbs-up (Facebook) or heart (Instagram) icons.
In addition to regular posts, PAC also shares Stories on Facebook and Instagram. These appear at the top of your feed. Look for PAC’s tulip icon, tap to view the story, and click the heart to show your support. You can also send us a message to share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you!
