A North Minneapolis mental health clinic is expanding dementia awareness African Americans through a new $149,000 state grant. The African American Child Wellness Institute (AACWI) will launch culturally specific education, outreach, and cognitive screening programs across the Twin Cities to address rising dementia rates among Black communities.

The African American Child Wellness Institute (AACWI) received funding from the Minnesota Board on Aging (MBA) to launch a culturally specific education and outreach campaign focused on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The initiative aims to increase early diagnoses and connect caregivers to essential support resources, an urgent need as dementia cases among Black Americans continue to rise at disproportionate rates.

“This grant comes at a critical time for our community,” said Dr. Lolita King-Bethel, AACWI’s assistant clinic director. “We are seeing more African American families impacted by cognitive decline, yet stigma and lack of culturally informed education often delay testing and treatment. This project will allow us to meet people where they are, with empathy, knowledge, and the resources they need.”

The grant will support a series of monthly workshops and community gatherings beginning this winter across the Twin Cities. Each event will include educational presentations on dementia prevention, early signs of cognitive decline, and free on-site cognitive screenings. Participants will also have access to care navigation services and culturally relevant support networks dementia awareness African Americans.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, U.S. dementia cases are projected to nearly double, from 514,000 in 2020 to 1 million by 2060, with Black Americans facing the highest risk of developing Alzheimer’s or related diseases.

“Timely diagnosis using the right tools is key to treatment and support,” said Maureen Schneider, board chair for the Minnesota Board on Aging. “By partnering with organizations like AACWI that are trusted within their communities, we can ensure education and early detection reach the people who need it most.”

Founded in 2009 by Dr. BraVada Garrett-Akinsanya, the African American Child Wellness Institute remains Minnesota’s only culturally specific mental health clinic serving African and African American clients from childhood through adulthood. The institute’s trauma-informed approach integrates cultural heritage, spirituality, and holistic wellness to promote mental and emotional healing.

King-Bethel said the new dementia initiative aligns with AACWI’s broader mission of psychological and spiritual liberation for communities of African descent. “This is about preserving memory, preserving legacy, and ensuring our elders receive the care and dignity they deserve,” she added.