Big Stone Area Memory Loss Connection (BSAMLC) is a 501(c)(3) volunteer group created to support health care professionals, law enforcement personnel, inform all caregivers and individuals experience memory loss with education related to memory loss – and assistance for family caregivers and people with dementia.
We collaborate with many agencies to provide dementia education and support. The agencies include: Essentia Health, Ortonville Area Health Services, Minnesota River Valley Area Agency on Aging, Prairie Five Community Action Council, Countryside Public Health Agency, Lutheran Social Services, local churches, libraries and Big Stone Health Care Foundation.
2026 Board of Directors
- Ranet Schmeichel, President, community member
- Linda Kolb, Vice President, Prairie Five
- Jocelyn Schowalter, Secretary/Treasurer, community member
- Mary Ross, community member
- Laura Laub, Big Stone County Family Services
- Laura Thomas, Prairie Five
- Nicole Erickson, Countryside Public Health
- Debi Retzlaff, Lutheran Social Services
- Melissa Wentzel, MN River Area Agency on Aging
- Ann Holme, community member
- Debi Wolters, Essentia – Graceville
Big Stone Area Memory Loss Connection (BSAMLC) does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and termination of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and the provision of services.
We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all residents of this county, committee members, volunteers, vendors and service providers.
Big Stone Area Memory Loss Connection is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate and will take affirmative action measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertising for employment, compensation, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant on the basis of race , color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
Non-discrimination Statement and Policy Adopted 11.11.2019
Our Mission
The business and purpose of this corporation shall be to organize, operate and maintain a nonprofit educational support group for residents in the Big Stone Area dedicated to be:
The memory resource for –
- Education
- Emotional Support
- To provide information for service connections for those caring for individuals and those experiencing memory loss in the Big Stone Area.
“To recognize the intrinsic beauty and value of those living with memory loss while inspiring in them and their care partners hope, joy, and a sense of empowerment.”