Translating the “Respite for All” Faith-Based Model into Community-Based Environments

On August 25, 2025, from 3:00-4:00 p.m. ET, the National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center will host the webinar, Translating the “Respite for All” Faith-Based Model into Community-Based Environments.

In this webinar, we will explore how the Respite for All (RFA) model—originally rooted in a faith-based setting—can be effectively adapted for use in public or civic community-based environments. RFA uses a person-centered, strength-based approach to provide meaningful engagement for people living with dementia, vital respite for care partners, and rewarding experiences for volunteers. Guided by the motto "Reclaiming Joy for All”, RFA offers an innovative model of dementia care that fosters creativity, autonomy, cognitive resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.

Speakers

Daphne Johnston, BSW, MA, Executive Director, Respite for All Foundation

Daphne Johnston is the Executive Director and co-founder of the Respite for All Foundation (RFA), a nonprofit based in Montgomery, Alabama. Since its founding in 2018, RFA has promoted a sustainable, volunteer-based model of dementia respite care that supports both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. By partnering with churches and local senior organizations to recruit and train volunteers, Daphne realized the model’s potential for nationwide replication. As of Summer 2025, RFA has inspired and trained 58 new volunteer-based respite ministries across 18 states, with more on the way. The RFA social model has been recognized by the U.S. Administration on Aging as an innovative approach to dementia care. In recognition of her leadership, Daphne was appointed by Alabama Governor Kay Ivey in 2023 to serve on the Governor’s Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alison Smith, BS, RD/LDN, Certified Activity Director, Program Director, Orange County Department on Aging

Alison Smith is the Social Engagement Program Coordinator for the Aging Transitions team at the Orange County Department on Aging. She directs several impactful initiatives, including the R Place Respite for All Program, Memory Cafés, and Dementia Friendly Communities. Alison collaborates closely with a multidisciplinary team of geriatric professionals to deliver dementia education, training, support, and social engagement opportunities for older adults in Orange County. In 2025, Alison received the Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service, and R Place was honored with a National Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo) in the Human Services category.

Please note:

• National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center (NADRC) webinars are free of charge and open to the public.
• NADRC webinars are recorded and will be available for viewing here.
• Pre-registration is required to attend the live webinars.
• Closed captioning is available during the live event and is included in the recording for all NADRC webinars.