Above: Tina Philpot, Alessio Avenanti (RC Cesena, Italy) and Louise Barden; Below Charlie Augello, Tina and Louise

Dunwoody Rotarians Charlie and Anita Augello, David and Tina Philpot, Ron and Louise Barden attended the Multi Club Workshop (MCW) in Matera, Puglia, Italy, September 5-9, 2018.

The RC of Dunwoody has partnered with the RC of Cesena to present a global grant to improve the care and treatment of individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s in Cesena, Italy. The project will provide training for professional and family care givers on identifying the risk and signs of dementia, accessing care pathways, managing multiple medications, creating safe and dementia-friendly environments, and how to prevent injuries, falls, and accidents.The training will also include the developing psycho-social skills needed when interacting with individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Municipal and State Police will also be trained on the management of missing persons and handling individuals who exhibit emotional outbursts or aggressive behaviors.

In addition to the RC of Cesena and the RC of Valle del Savio, partners include the departments of psychology and architecture of Bologna University, and the First Aid Department of Cesena Hospital. In addition, training will be provided at the Technical High School of Cesena for Healthcare Professionals which will equip graduates for jobs in elderly care facilities.

District Rotary clubs are invited to join the RC Dunwoody in this important project. Approximately $7,000 is needed to reach the goal of $83,000 to provide the training and specialized equipment. At the MCW, Lauren Rabant, RI Regional Grants Officer gave initial approval of this project.

The Multi Club Workshop was coordinated by Leonardo di Angelis, Chair of the Rotary Foundation Committee RC Ravenna, D 2072 and hosted by RC Matera and DG Donato Donnoli, D 2120. Approximately 110 Rotarians from 15 clubs, six districts and five countries (Italy, UK, Russia, Germany, and USA) attended the workshop and evaluated eight global grants planned for Russia, Italy, Spain, Burundi, and Ethiopia. The Dunwoody Rotarians found the MCW a great way to evaluate International Projects and build International friendships.