Oakwood Creative Care (OCC) is making history once again—this time, in the mountains of Northern Arizona. The Center for Dementia Respite Innovation (CDRI) has awarded OCC a prestigious grant to expand its nationally recognized dementia care and adult day services to Flagstaff, where a new social model adult day program will open in October 2025. This milestone marks a powerful step toward equity in aging, bringing OCC’s signature blend of creativity, dignity, and innovation to families who need it most.
This milestone will provide much-needed relief to caregivers supporting people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias by opening doors to a person-centered approach to aging care in an underserved region of Arizona. Built on strong community partnerships, the new site will provide sustainable, scalable, and joyful care solutions to families in need of respite and support.
Why an Expansion in Adult Day Services Matters to the East Valley
For those living in the East Valley, this expansion serves as a powerful reminder of the ripple effect that visionary care can have, extending beyond city limits to uplift families and communities across the state. It’s a celebration of what’s possible when we come together to champion dignity, purpose, and creativity for every stage of life, no matter where someone lives.
“This expansion is more than a new location—it’s a reflection of our unwavering belief that aging should be full of purpose, creativity, and connection,” said Sherri Friend, President and CEO of Oakwood Creative Care. “We are deeply honored by this grant and excited to bring our mission to a new community where it is so greatly needed.”
As Arizona continues to age faster than almost any other state, the need for person-centered, joyful care models has never been more urgent. With this in mind, Oakwood’s award-winning programs aim to transform the lives of thousands of families in the Valley. Now, this Flagstaff launch extends that same impact to communities in Northern Arizona—offering not only support and respite for caregivers but also hope and healing through art, music, and movement to those living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other age-related challenges.
“What we’re building in Flagstaff is the next chapter of Oakwood’s legacy,” Friend added. “We’re planting seeds of hope, care, and imagination—and I couldn’t be prouder of the team making this vision a reality.”
Thank You, CDRI!
OCC is deeply grateful for the generosity of the CDRI and is excited to leverage this opportunity to continue enhancing the quality of life for families living with dementia. Stay tuned for more updates as Oakwood Creative Care prepares to bring JOY, creativity, and compassionate care to Flagstaff and beyond!
Did You Know?
Oakwood Creative Care is bringing back the JOY in aging! We believe a diagnosis should not have to define your life. Instead, we have devoted our mission to reigniting hope for caregivers and older adults with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other age-related challenges. Click the button below to learn more about how we do this through our research-based, cutting-edge, creative care model found at each of our Day Clubs.
