By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE — In partnership with TARCOG’s Alabama Cares Program and the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) at Alabama A&M University, the documentary My Mama Joe, Hope & Help was shown in Huntsville as part of an educational outreach effort known as the Community Engagement Forum.
The one-hour documentary, which broadcast and streamed nationally on the PBS platform, followed a family’s journey as they cared for their matriarch living with Alzheimer’s dementia. The film was part of The Mama Joe Project, an initiative dedicated to supporting caregivers, promoting healthy aging and improving outcomes for elders living with dementia and the families who support them.
Produced by educator and creative Herb Caldwell, the film elevated awareness about the growing challenges facing family caregivers. It blended personal storytelling with best-practice insights from leading experts representing institutions such as Harvard University, the CDC, the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, AARP, Washington University in St. Louis, the Alzheimer’s Association, and others.
The Community Engagement Forum took place on Friday, November 21, from 6–7:30 p.m. at the Huntsville Marriott at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. The event included a community discussion session with Caldwell, who also served as the eldest son of the film’s central character.
“The film screening as part of the Community Engagement Forum provided a unique opportunity for folks to connect with a familiar personal narrative, as well as directly engage with information and resources to support their health and care journey,” Caldwell said.
The event arrived during a meaningful moment: November, nationally recognized as both Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month. Organizers aimed to create a space where families, caregivers, students and community members could learn, connect and find supportive resources.
The free event was open to all ages, offering attendees a resource guide, along with complimentary popcorn and a soft drink. Registration was available through www.mamajoeproject.com/alabamacares.