Alzheimer's Association names executive director

by Ann Bucy

SBJ Contributing Writer

After a 14-month search for an executive director, the Southwest Missouri Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association has named Joyce Head to the position. She started her new job Feb. 2.

Head said she became involved with the association (she was on the board of directors for a year) because her sister-in-law has the disease and two of her friends have died because of it. Also, she said, she has always been interested in the health care field. "It was always my interest. I have a real feel for it."

Prior to being named executive director, Head worked as a licensed nursing home administrator and, most recently, as the operations/development officer for the Council of Churches. Her work there entailed various administrative and fund-raising responsibilities.

Head said her short-term goals include making the organization more visible in the community and recruiting new board members.

Long-term goals include collaborating with the other four Missouri chapters, working closely with the board of directors on expanding existing fund-raising activities, and developing and implementing new sources of revenue.

"We're looking to increase the number of individual, family and corporate members we currently have," Head said. "The benefits of membership include a monthly newsletter, discounts on educational materials like books and videos, and discounts on any type of health care-related training we would charge for."

Since becoming executive director, she has linked the chapter, via modem, with the national Alzheimer's Association in Chicago.

"Now we can network with all the chapters across the United States and can request or send information to other chapters."

She added that she hopes the Springfield chapter will have its own web site. "We're looking for a donor who can help us with this cost, she said.

Head said she loves what she does because it keeps her busy and active. "I know and respect the directors of the other nonprofit organizations in this area and want to join them in making this a better community. I also look forward to being involved in this chapter and the 29 counties we serve."

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