Debra Derella-Cheren, President
With over 40 years of experience in holistic studies, Debra has dedicated her career to promoting health and well-being, including establishing lending libraries for corporate employees. She authored “The Book of TLC Tools,” a valuable resource for families focused on healing and support.
Debra’s professional journey also includes 27 years in new development in New York City, alongside 40 years in sales promotion and marketing for consumer brands.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Debra has navigated the challenges of cognitive decline while caring for her husband in his later years, which has deepened her understanding of holistic health and caregiving.
Lisa Leitl, Vice President/Secretary
Lisa completed her certification in Special Care of Persons with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders. She has been certified to administer the MoCA, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and has been introduced to neuroanatomy and the related cognitive domains that MoCA assesses. She has also received Certification in Contemplative Care from the University of Arizona.
Lisa’s introduction to the world of dementia care came through her work as a musician. She spent the first chapter of her life in the performing arts as a professional musician and actor. She later found herself using the arts to serve a variety of diverse and typically underserved communities
Lisa feels it is essential that we not only focus on the disease and or diagnosis and instead turn our attention to what each person can continue to contribute, both to the well-being of their own lives and the lives of others.
Leslie Alto, Treasurer