INDIANA PARKINSON FOUNDATION
Mission Statement
Our mission is to come alongside those with Parkinson's and their families and provide valuable programs and services to improve their lives physically, mentally and spiritually. Our programs include The CLIMB exercise program, iCLIMB subscription service, support systems and educational events and resources.
About This Cause
The Indiana Parkinson Foundation was founded in 2009 when a local farmer received a diagnosis that created more questions than answers. When IPF began, it's mission was to provide funding for adult stem cell research, which was done through the Cell Therapy Foundation in Indianapolis. Over time, it became apparent that IPF was to change its focus from funding research to helping those who are in the trenches "right now" with the disease. Some of the board members were attending the Parkinson's Symposium in Indianapolis. David Zid was the keynote speaker at the symposium. He spoke about exercise and the benefits that it can have on the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. A seed was planted that day in September 2010 that quickly grew into the CLIMB, an exercise program for people with Parkinson's. Through the knowledge and expertise of Joy Gordon (physical therapy), Andy Durnell (personal trainer), and Don Schaefer (IPF board member and CLIMB advocate), IPF has developed the CLIMB. The CLIMB has grown and changed in many ways. The CLIMB was built on a combination of physical therapy, aerobic exercise, and boxing. The program has grown to now offer BIG Movement, Postural Therapy and Balance, Yoga, Egoscue, Massage Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Weight Training. Not only does the CLIMB offer many services led by experienced trainers, it is also a safe haven of support and encouragement for people with Parkinson's and their families. What began as a few volunteers, a few class members, and a little bit of equipment moved in and out every Saturday, looks very different now. Today IPF provides direction and training for multiple Climb locations throughout the state of Indiana and continues to grow the number of Climbs serving individuals with Parkinson's Disease. The Indiana Parkinson Foundation also offers support groups, educational workshops and community outreach to raise the awareness of Parkinson's Disease. People are being changed through the efforts of the Indiana Parkinson Foundation -- mentally, physically, and spiritually. What began as a small and humble endeavor, in honor of one man, has grown and continues to grow -- only by the grace and guidance of the Lord -- into a community resource for many, offering strength and hope.