Long time Alzheimer Society Executive calls it quits

By Duane Hicks
Fort Frances Times

The Alzheimer Society of Kenora/Rainy River Districts is looking for a new coordinator, after Margaret Schonewille has accepted the position as director of development at Providence College and Seminary in Steinbach and will begin working there this month.
Schonewille has been involved with the local Alzheimer Society for the past 15 years, serving as a board member for four years, and executive director for 11.
She and her husband, Dick, will be living just outside Brandon.
Dick will remain at the Alzheimer Society office in Kenora until someone to take Margaret’s position is hired or the end of April, whichever comes first.
Meanwhile, the Alzheimer Society has begun advertising for a new person to take a similar position that will be referred to as a “First Link” coordinator, as opposed to executive director.
The “First Link” coordinator is responsible for planning, implementing and delivering the First Link Project—an innovative program that is funded under the province of Ontario new “Aging at Home Strategy.”
The program is designed to promote early access to support and education in the community for people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer disease or a related disorder (ADRD). The program also links their families and/or care providers to community supports, to enhance their capacity to assist the person with ADRD to remain in their own home for as long as possible.
The “First Link” coordinator is also responsible for working in cooperation with other programs being offered by the Alzheimer Society and performing duties consistent with the job classification, such as recruiting volunteers.
Contact the Alzheimer Society for details about this position at alzheimers@kmts.ca or call 1-800-682-0245 (North West Ontario only), or 1-807-468-1516.
The Alzheimer Society of Kenora/Rainy River Districts will remain based in Kenora, with a satellite office in Dryden.