A comprehensive, journey-based program ecosystem designed to walk alongside individuals living with Parkinson’s disease,
their families, and care partners.
GAPS Parkinson’s Pathway
A Parkinson's diagnosis changes life in an instant. Questions arise, the future feels uncertain, and it's easy to feel alone. At Gaps, we believe no one should have to navigate Parkinson's by themselves.
That's why GAPS created the Parkinson's Pathway—a unique, comprehensive program model unlike anything else in the greater Parkinson’s community. More than a collection of programs, the Parkinson's Pathway is an intentional, connected journey designed to walk alongside individuals living with Parkinson's, as well as their families and care partners.
From the moment of diagnosis through every stage of the disease, the Parkinson's Pathway provides trusted guidance, evidence-informed resources, meaningful relationships, and access to the programs and services people need most. Rather than leaving individuals to figure out the next step on their own, GAPS helps them navigate the journey with confidence, hope, and a community that understands.
At GAPS, we're not simply offering support—we're creating a pathway forward.
GAPS TrailHead Support Group
TrailHead is where the Parkinson's Pathway begins. Created specifically for individuals who are newly diagnosed, their families and care partners, TrailHead provides a welcoming place to process the diagnosis, ask questions, and discover that they are not alone.
This introduction to Parkinson’s disease and the GAPS community offers practical education, trusted resources, and compassionate support in a small-group setting where participants can build confidence and meaningful connections. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty, individuals, families and care partners will leave with a clearer understanding of Parkinson's, a roadmap for what lies ahead, and an invitation into the larger GAPS community. TrailHead ensures that no one has to take their first steps with Parkinson's alone.
GAPS TrailGuide Peer to Peer Mentorship
TrailGuide pairs individuals living with Parkinson's—and, when appropriate, their care partners—with trained peer mentors who have walked a similar path.Sometimes the greatest source of encouragement comes from someone who truly understands the challenges, questions, and emotions that accompany a Parkinson's diagnosis.
As an essential part of GAPS' unique Parkinson's Pathway, TrailGuide provides one-on-one support, practical wisdom, and genuine friendship. Whether navigating a recent diagnosis, facing a new stage of the disease, or simply needing someone to listen, participants are matched with a compassionate mentor who offers hope, perspective, and encouragement. Through these meaningful relationships, no one has to walk the Parkinson's journey alone.
GAPS BaseCamp Support Group
BaseCamp is a place of strength, encouragement, and renewal for those caring for someone living with Parkinson's. Care partners often carry tremendous responsibility while navigating the emotional, physical, and practical challenges of the disease. BaseCamp reminds them that they don't have to carry that burden alone.
As a vital part of GAPS' Parkinson's Pathway, BaseCamp provides a welcoming community where care partners can share experiences, learn from one another, and receive trusted guidance in a supportive, understanding environment. Through meaningful conversation, practical resources, and lasting relationships, care partners find the encouragement they need to continue caring well—both for their loved one and for themselves.
GAPS TrailWays Wellness Classes
TrailWays is GAPS' collection of evidence-informed wellness classes designed to help individuals living with Parkinson's stay active, engaged, and empowered. From exercise and movement to education and social connection, each program is intentionally selected to support the physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being of those living with the disease.
As a cornerstone of GAPS' Parkinson's Pathway, TrailWays provides opportunities to build strength, improve balance, foster confidence, and connect with others who understand the journey. Whether someone is newly diagnosed or has been living with Parkinson's for years, TrailWays offers meaningful ways to live well today while investing in long-term health and quality of life.
GAPS CampSite Socials
CampSites brings the GAPS community together through monthly social gatherings that foster friendship, laughter, and a true sense of belonging. Living with Parkinson's can be isolating, but meaningful relationships are just as important as education and exercise. CampSites creates welcoming spaces where individuals living with Parkinson's, care partners, families, and friends can simply enjoy life together.
As an important part of GAPS' Parkinson's Pathway, CampSites reminds participants that they are part of a community that understands and cares. Whether sharing a meal, celebrating a holiday, exploring a local attraction, or gathering for a special event, these moments strengthen connections, lift spirits, and reinforce an essential truth: no one should face Parkinson's alone.
GAPS Waypoint Gatherings
WayPoints provides monthly educational opportunities that equip individuals living with Parkinson's, care partners, and families with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the journey ahead. Each session features trusted experts, practical resources, and timely topics that help participants better understand Parkinson's, make informed decisions, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities that come with living well.
WayPoints offers reliable guidance at every stage of the disease. Beyond learning, these gatherings create opportunities to ask questions, connect with others facing similar experiences, and discover new tools for living with hope, purpose, and greater confidence. Because the Parkinson's journey is always changing, WayPoints helps ensure no one has to navigate it without direction.
GAPS Gala: Every Step Counts
Summit is GAPS' signature annual gala—a celebration of hope, resilience, and the remarkable community that makes our mission possible. Each year, individuals living with Parkinson's, care partners, families, healthcare professionals, community partners, and supporters come together to celebrate lives changed, honor inspiring stories, and invest in a future where no one faces Parkinson's alone.
As the pinnacle event of GAPS' Parkinson's Pathway, Summit reflects the strength of a community united by compassion and purpose. More than a fundraising event, it is an evening that celebrates every step of the journey, inspires greater awareness, and ensures that GAPS can continue providing life-changing programs, meaningful connections, and unwavering support for everyone impacted by Parkinson's.