RSO - National Alzheimer's Buddies

National Alzheimer's Buddies (NAB) at UMass Amherst is a student-led organization dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between college students and individuals living with dementia. Our mission is to provide respite care for patients while creating a unique, supportive space for both students and residents to engage in enriching one-on-one interactions. Through our volunteer program partnership with nearby dementia care facilities,  students are paired with patients for weekly sessions where they can participate in a variety of activities, such as arts and crafts, music, games, or simply sharing stories and meaningful conversations. These sessions aim to enhance the quality of life for patients while giving students the opportunity to build empathy, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of dementia. Join us in making a difference—one connection at a time—and helping to bring joy, comfort, and companionship to those who need it most.