2026 Magic of Hope Gala & Auction
Omni Providence Hotel
Join us for a fun-filled night of cocktails, dinner, merriment, and more at the 2nd Annual Rhode Island Magic of Hope Gala & Auction! It’s a festive gathering in support of the local Parkinson’s community, with many ways to support the American Parkinson Disease Association, Rhode Island Chapter. Every dollar raised goes to provide the support, education, and research that will help everyone impacted by Parkinson’s disease live life to the fullest!
When & Where?
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Omni Providence | 1 West Exchange Street, Providence, RI 02903
Cocktail Hour begins at 6:00 pm
Parkinson’s Roadmap for Education and Support Services
Registration is Open!
Program is Tuesdays March 10 – April 28, 2026
The APDA PRESS™ support group will be open to anyone diagnosed within the last 5 years. This 8-week closed group offers people with Parkinson’s and their family members a safe, supportive space to connect with others, share coping strategies, and discuss day-to-day life with PD. Facilitated by Laurie Ann Oliveira, MSW, LICSW, the group also provides education, resources, and connections to local advocacy and services. Session topics include:
- March 10th, What’s Next After Diagnosis-Laurie Ann Oliveira, MSW
- March 17th, Medication Management- Dr. Emily Weisbach
- March 24th, Importance of Exercise-Brandon Theroux-PT, DPT
- March 31st, Dealing with Physical Symptoms-Dr. Friedman
- April 7th, Daily Coping and Relationships-Laurie Ann Oliviera, MSW
- April 14th, Caring for Others, Caring for Yourself-Darlene Horan
- April 21st, Tips for Daily Living-Tom Hemmendinger
- April 28th, Building Your Healthcare Team-Geena Goyette-MS, CCC-SLP
2026 Rhode Island Optimism Walk & 5K Fun Run for Parkinson’s
SAVE THE DATE for our Optimism Walk & 5K Fun Run for Parkinson’s!
This Optimism Walk & 5K Fun Run at Warwick City Park is a day of community and raising support for families in Rhode Island impacted by Parkinson’s disease. It is the largest PD community event in our state, offering resources and opportunities to connect, learn about programs & resources, and grow our supportive community. This event additionally includes raffles, music, catered lunch, and more!
Your support enables us to expand programs and services across Rhode Island, empowering more individuals affected by Parkinson’s to live their lives to the fullest. Additionally, donations fund groundbreaking research dedicated to developing improved treatments and, ultimately, finding a cure.
When & Where?
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Warwick City Park | Steven O’Connor Blvd, Warwick, RI 02889
Check-in: 9:30 am
5k Fun Run: 10:30 am
Ceremony and Walk: 11:30 am
2026 Driving Away Parkinson’s Golf Tournament
Save the date! On Monday, June 1, 2026, join us at Quidnessett Country Club in North Kingstown, RI, for the Annual Driving Away Parkinson’s Golf Tournament. This cherished event brings together the local Parkinson’s community and their supporters for a beautiful day on the bay filled with golf, camaraderie, and community spirit—all to support the mission of our chapter.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or new to the game, it’s a perfect opportunity to gather friends and enjoy a fun scramble format, delicious lunch, raffles, silent auction, and an awards dinner. Funds raised will directly benefit local programs and resources, including support groups, exercise initiatives, educational efforts, and research working toward a cure.
Mark your calendar now! Registration details will be available by early March. We look forward to seeing you this spring!