Sing, Play and Connect: Ethel's Place Welcomes All for Fun and Fellowship

As of August 11, 2025, Ethel's Place^TM is no longer hosted by AARP Michigan.

AARP Michigan and the Great Lansing Care Foundation announce the launch of the Greater Lansing Memory Café, a new community resource offering a welcoming, supportive environment for individuals living with memory loss or dementia — and the family members and friends who care for them.

The first gathering of the Greater Lansing Memory Café will be held Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at the Hannah Community Center in East Lansing.

This new initiative builds on the foundation of AARP Michigan’s much-loved Ethel’s Place, which for years offered connection and respite to the memory care community. Its transition to the Greater Lansing Memory Café will continue to be supported by AARP Michigan as a sponsor, with active involvement from its dedicated volunteers.

“Social isolation is a real challenge for people living with memory loss and their caregivers,” said Paula D. Cunningham, AARP Michigan State Director. “This café is about restoring connection, joy and understanding — and ensuring no one walks this journey alone. By working closely with the Care Foundation, we can build on Ethel’s Place legacy and bring even more support to families.”

Dr. Michael Shafer, Director of Neuropsychology with University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Medical Group and co-founder of the Greater Lansing Care Foundation, added:

“For those living with memory loss, opportunities for social engagement can be limited — yet they are critical for emotional well-being and quality of life. The Memory Café offers a safe, stigma-free space where participants and their caregivers can connect, share experiences, and simply enjoy time together. We’re thrilled to partner with AARP Michigan to make this vision a reality for our community.”

Each café event will feature activities designed to spark conversation, encourage creativity, and foster a sense of belonging, all in a safe and stigma-free setting. Light refreshments will be provided, and attendance is free.

The Greater Lansing Memory Café will meet monthly, with additional locations and programming planned for the future.

For more information, please go to the contact go to www.greaterlansingcarefoundation.org.