Grand Junction turned into a medieval dream on January 31 as more than 520 people filled Colorado Mesa University’s ballroom for HopeWest’s sold-out 30th annual gala. Under candlelight, dragons, and Renaissance gowns, the community came together for one reason: to fund a groundbreaking new program that is already changing how Western Colorado families face dementia.
A Community Steps Up When Dementia Hits Home
The “Romantic Renaissance” gala was more than a party. It became the single largest fundraising night ever for HopeWest’s Palliative Care for Dementia program, with guests opening their hearts and wallets to raise well over $300,000 through tickets, auctions, sponsorships, and an emotional paddle raise that brought in six figures in minutes.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Breeana Gumpert, Chief Development Officer for HopeWest. “People were literally standing and waving their paddles in the air because they know someone, love someone, or are someone walking this journey right now.”
One in nine Coloradans over 65 already lives with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. On the Western Slope, specialized help has been almost nonexistent until now.
The Program Every Caregiver Wishes Existed Sooner
Launched in July 2024, HopeWest’s Palliative Care for Dementia program is built entirely around the caregiver.
Families get:
- Free in-home consultations with dementia care specialists
- Monthly support groups in Grand Junction, Montrose, Delta, and Meeker
- 24/7 phone support line
- Respite care coordination
- Education classes on everything from communication techniques to end-of-life planning
“What we hear most is ‘I wish I had known about this two years ago,’” said Deneen Silva, President & CEO of HopeWest. “That’s why nights like the gala matter. Every dollar means one more family doesn’t have to figure this out alone.”
A Theme That Perfectly Matched the Mission
Guests walked into a transformed ballroom complete with 12-foot dragon sculptures, knights in armor, flowing goblets of themed cocktails, and live harp music. The Special Events Committee spent months building the experience from scratch.
Breeana Gumpert explained why the Renaissance theme hit so hard.
“Renaissance means rebirth and vision for the future,” she said. “When you’re caring for someone with dementia, you have to plan for a future you never wanted. This program helps families do exactly that with dignity, knowledge, and real support.”
One attendee, dressed as a medieval queen, wiped away tears during the program video. “My mom has dementia,” she told me quietly. “I didn’t know places like HopeWest existed. I’m telling everyone I know.”
By the Numbers: The Impact So Far
Since July 2024, the dementia program has already served more than 180 families across six counties. Demand is growing so fast that HopeWest is actively hiring two new dementia care specialists this spring.
The money raised at the gala will fund:
- 400+ hours of free in-home support
- 50 new caregiver education workshops
- Expansion of support groups into Plateau Valley and Rangely
- Memory café social events launching this summer
A Night That Reminded Everyone Why HopeWest Exists
As the last dragon candle flickered out and guests headed into the cold January night, the message was clear: in Grand Junction, serious illness and grief don’t have to be faced alone.
Deneen Silva stood at the door thanking every person who walked out. “This community built HopeWest 30 years ago,” she said, voice cracking. “And tonight, you proved once again that you’ll never stop showing up for each other.”
If you or someone you love is touched by dementia, HopeWest wants you to know help is here, and it’s free. Call (970) 248-4400 today.
The Renaissance of care has begun on the Western Slope, and it’s being written one family, one night, and one generous heart at a time.
Drop your thoughts below, Grand Valley. Have you used HopeWest’s services? Share your story. And if you were at the gala, keep the magic going with #HopeWestGala on Instagram and tag someone who needs to see this hope.
