Champaign-Urbana has earned official recognition as a Dementia Friendly community, joining more than 400 communities across 42 states working to better support residents living with dementia and their caregivers.​

The designation from Dementia Friendly America was announced December 5, marking the culmination of a grassroots effort that began when local organizations formed the Dementia Friendly Champaign-Urbana Task Force and Action Team in late 2024.

“We are so honored to have received this recognition,” said Emily Harmon, Family Life Educator with University of Illinois Extension. “We are excited to offer dementia friendly education and awareness to various business sectors in the new year.”

The recognition comes from a collaborative effort among more than 20 local organizations, including Age-Friendly Champaign, Family Service Champaign County, University of Illinois Extension, East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging, Champaign Park District, CRIS Healthy Aging, and Urbana Free Library.​

Healthcare providers including Carle Hospital and Synergy Home Care joined forces with government entities like the Champaign County Veterans Commission and Senator Faraci’s office, alongside community organizations ranging from St. Patrick Catholic Church to MTD and Amber Glen Memory Care.