The Parkinson’s Foundation has announced over $1 million in community grants for local Parkinson’s disease (PD) programs across 38 U.S. states. These grants are designed to support initiatives that help people with PD live better lives by addressing their health, wellness, and educational needs.
According to Foundation President and CEO John L. Lehr, local programs such as support groups, exercise classes, and educational courses are transformative for the over one million Americans living with Parkinson’s. This funding reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to improving the everyday lives of the Parkinson’s community.
Each grant ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 and is awarded based on evaluations by a peer review committee made up of individuals affected by PD, including patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. These reviewers help identify programs with the most meaningful impact on their communities.
For the 2025 cycle, funding will support initiatives that promote physical activity, education, and mental health care for people with PD and their caregivers. The programs chosen aim to address educational and resource gaps while embracing the diverse needs of the community. The grants cover the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
One example of the grant’s impact comes from Up ENDing Parkinson’s in Virginia, which uses the funding to expand free rock climbing sessions for PD patients. The organization’s founder, Molly Donelan-Cupka, emphasized how the support helps foster resilience, connection, and empowerment.
Since launching the Community Grant program in 2011, the Parkinson’s Foundation has invested more than $12.7 million in 969 community-based initiatives nationwide.
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