Dorothy Bramlage Public Library
The Dorothy Bramlage Library and Tap To Togetherness Across Populations is proud to announce that we have been awarded a Parkinson's Foundation Community Grant to launch Dance for Connection: Expanding Access to Movement and Community for People with Parkinson's. We are honored to partner with the Parkinson's Foundation to improve access to evidence-informed movement programming for people living with Parkinson's disease. This grant represents an important step toward expanding access to Parkinson's-specific wellness programming across rural Kansas.
Parkinson’s Foundation community grants further the health, wellness and education of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) across the nation. In July 2026, the Foundation distributed more than $1 million throughout 96 community-based grants that support local health, wellness and educational programs that address unmet needs across local PD communities. Only two Parkinson’s Foundation community grants were awarded in the state of Kansas.
The Library was also awarded a grant from the Geary County Healthcare Foundation for Dance for Connection programming. The mission of the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation is to assist in providing the healthcare needs for Geary County by raising funds to support medical necessities, improving mental health initiatives, scholarships, and other essential community needs.
Dance for Connection combines movement, live music, and social connection in a welcoming community environment. Through evidence-informed dance experiences, participants build strength, confidence, creativity, and joy. The program is designed for individuals living with Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other cognitive challenges, along with their care partners, family members, and supporters. All are welcome! Dance for Connection is built on the belief that movement is medicine, music inspires, and community heals.
Dance for Connection is grounded in evidence-informed practices and reflects TTTAP's ongoing commitment to research, education, and community engagement. The program combines nationally recognized Dance for Parkinson's Disease principles with community partnerships and innovative programming.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Parkinson’s Foundation, the Geary County Healthcare Foundation, and Tap To Togetherness Across Populations for investing in programs that improve quality of life for our neighbors,” said Donna Porter, Library Director. “Their support allows us to provide free, accessible programming that brings people together through movement, music, and connection.”
Together, we are expanding access to inclusive wellness opportunities, reducing barriers to participation, and creating a welcoming environment where participants, care partners, families, and supporters can move, connect, and thrive.