Capital Area Parkinson's Society

The Capital Area Parkinson's Society (CAPS) is a U.S. nonprofit organization based in the greater Austin area. Established in 1984, CAPS is primarily volunteer-powered and recognized as a 501(c)(3) entity. Its mission is to provide education, current information on research and resources, social interaction, and emotional support to individuals with Parkinson's disease, their care partners, and the general public.

History and Purpose

CAPS began with a small dedicated group and has grown to serve over 700 members. Membership is free and open to anyone interested in Parkinson's disease. The organization is led by an Executive Director and an active Board of Directors, many of whom have been directly impacted by Parkinson's disease. CAPS emphasizes the importance of education, personalized support, social interaction, and community resources for those affected by Parkinson's.

Programs and Services

• Support Groups: CAPS offers support groups for individuals with Parkinson's and their caregivers. These groups provide a platform for sharing experiences, learning about managing the disease, and networking with others who understand the challenges of living with Parkinson's.
• Educational Resources: CAPS facilitates access to educational materials and updates on Parkinson's research and care strategies. This includes workshops, lectures, and online materials that help individuals better manage their condition.
• Community Engagement: The organization works to raise awareness about Parkinson's disease through community events and partnerships. By engaging the local community, CAPS helps build a supportive environment for those affected by the disease.

Operations

CAPS operates primarily through volunteer efforts, relying on its board and volunteers for leadership and support. Despite its volunteer-driven nature, CAPS has faced challenges such as declining member engagement and event attendance. To address these challenges, the organization has worked to modernize its operations and expand its reach in the Austin area.

Challenges and Responses

In recent years, CAPS faced challenges like reduced event attendance and member growth. To address these issues, CAPS collaborated with professionals to restructure its brand image and improve its online presence. This involved updating its logo, enhancing its website, and implementing strategies to increase engagement and fundraising.

References

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[1] https://www.capitalareaparkinsons.org/about/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkinson's_Association [3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQASWVtP0Bo [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkinson's_Foundation [5] https://courcollab.com/our-work/capital-area-parkinsons-society/