New Hope Presbyterian Church Congregation/members
There’s something powerful about gathering on a Saturday morning—sharing a warm breakfast, good conversation, and a collective purpose to learn and grow. That’s exactly what happened at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Anaheim, where parishioners and community members came together to talk about something often left unspoken: brain health and Alzheimer’s disease.
A Partnership Rooted in Care
With the Programs in Medical Education (PRIME) Leadership Education to Advance Doctoring – African, Black and Caribbean (LEAD-ABC) program at the UC Irvine School of Medicine as a partner, the event created space for honest dialogue, curiosity, and connection. PRIME LEAD-ABC trains future physicians to address the healthcare needs of African American, Black, and Caribbean communities—this collaboration demonstrated the power of bringing knowledge and education directly into the heart of the community.
Research Meets Compassion
Dr. Crystal M. Glover speaks to New Hope Presbyterian Church Congregation/members
UCI MIND’s Dr. Crystal M. Glover led an intimate, heartfelt discussion about differences between Alzheimer’s disease and normal aging as well as evidence-based risk reduction methods—breaking down complex science into real, human terms. The 35 attendees, ranging from their early 20s to late 80s, leaned in as Dr. Glover explained how Alzheimer’s unfolds in distinct stages and how knowing the signs can help individuals and their families act early and seek support.
Her warmth and expertise created a safe space where questions flowed freely, and no concern felt too small. Dr. Glover didn’t just share research findings, she shared hope, practical tools, and a vision for communities empowered by understanding. Attendees left not only informed but inspired to continue the conversation with their own families and networks.
The diverse congregation—primarily Black and African American but welcoming people from all backgrounds—embodied the spirit of New Hope: open arms, open hearts, and a commitment to caring for the whole person.
Caring for Body, Mind, and Spirit
Kaylee López and Lupe Morales sit at UCI MIND resource table.
What made the day truly special was the holistic approach to wellness. PRIME LEAD-ABC medical students from UC Irvine School of Medicine offered free blood pressure screenings and health surveys, giving attendees real-time insight into their cardiovascular health. After all, keeping the heart healthy is just as vital as keeping the mind sharp.
The Black Girls Mental Health Foundation also joined the effort, providing free diaper backpacks filled with diapers, baby wipes, and critical mental health resources for new and expecting mothers. Recognizing that postpartum depression, anxiety, and hypervigilance are real and valid experiences, they offered information about therapy and support—reminding mothers that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
And of course, New Hope Presbyterian Church set the tone with a welcoming breakfast, nourishing both body and community spirit.
A Future Built on Connection
Events with conversations and activities like these remind us that caring for our minds is as essential as caring for our hearts and spirits. Every dialogue sparks awareness, every question builds understanding, and every shared story strengthens community.
As Dr. Glover reminded everyone, knowledge is power—and connection is healing. When faith communities, researchers, medical students, and grassroots organizations come together, we move closer to a future where brain health is not just talked about, but protected, celebrated, and nurtured at every age.
Because keeping the mind firing, the heartbeat flowing, and the spirit rising—that’s what true wellness looks like.
Want to learn more from Dr. Crystal M. Glover and UCI MIND about brain health in your community? Stay tuned for upcoming events and resources.
