ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, HELP US REACH EVERYONE!

At the Center for Movement Challenges, we believe in the power of movement to transform lives, particularly for those living with Parkinson's disease. We make a difference every day. For over a decade we have successfully provided innovative programs, compassionate care, and a supportive community to help individuals regain strength, independence, and hope. From specialized exercise classes, to tele-health, to personalized therapies and emotional support, we empower people nationwide to face the challenges of Parkinson's with resilience and confidence. Our classes are accessible in-person, live virtual and online, with the reach of ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, FOR EVERYONE!

But we can’t do it alone. Your donation directly fuels these life-changing efforts, giving individuals the tools to slow disease progression, improve motor and non-motor symptoms, reclaim their quality of life and pursue their passions. As a 501 (c) *(3) all donations are fully tax deductible.*

**Be the Difference**

When you donate to the Center for Movement Challenges, you’re investing in more than a program—you’re investing in people. Your contribution helps us provide accessible, high-quality programs and services to those in need, ensuring cost is never a barrier to care.  With your support, we can expand our reach, engage in groundbreaking research, and create new opportunities for healing and growth. Please reach inside your hearts and donate. Be the difference! Together, we can break down barriers and offer hope to thousands affected by Parkinson's. Help us give the gifts of friendship, support and LIFE nationwide, gifting people living with Parkinson’s the tools to live the best life possible to its fullest potential.

Join us in this vital mission—your generosity can change lives today.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Denise Formisano

CFMC CEO

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Speech Maintenance and Cognitive Wellness Class Three with Coach Valeria

Enhance Your Voice and Memory with Engaging Exercises

Materials: Chair, drinking water, optional water cup with a straw.

  • Posture Setup:
    • Feet flat on the floor.
    • Weight evenly distributed.
    • Shoulders aligned with ears; head positioned straight.

Warm-Up Exercises

  1. Upper Body Loosening:
    • Roll shoulders backward and forward.
    • Swing arms and stretch neck by turning to each side.
  2. Breathing Focus:
    • Hand on chest, another on belly; ensure the belly moves during inhalation.
    • Inhale deeply and exhale slowly through the mouth.
  3. Jaw and Voice Activation:
    • Perform wide-mouth chewing motions in both directions.
    • Add humming with lips closed, feeling vibrations in lips or sinuses.

Vocal Exercises

  1. Straw Voicing:
    • Blow bubbles into a water cup with a straw or mimic the motion without water.
    • Add voice and practice pitch glides ("hills and valleys").
  2. Ah Sound Training:
    • Take a deep breath and hold a loud "Ah" sound for 10 seconds.
    • Repeat for vocal clarity and strength.
  3. Pitch Glides:
    • Glide from a comfortable pitch to a high note and return.
    • Perform 10 rounds with strong, clear voice projection.

Engaging Memory Activities

  1. Fill-in-the-Blank Sentences:
    • Respond to prompts about personal preferences (e.g., color, books/movies, tea/coffee).
  2. Object Memory Game:
    • Remember four items (e.g., spoon, screwdriver, lemon, candle) revealed during the session.
    • Recall them later using memory strategies like visualization or association.

Reflection & Cool-Down

  • Reflect on how posture, breathing, and vocal exercises enhance clarity and focus.
  • Practice a yawn-and-sigh exercise: open wide into a yawn and release tension with a sigh.
End with strong, clear speech and carry it into your daily life!

Key takeaways

  • Proper posture and breathing are essential for a strong voice.
  • Combining vocal exercises with memory activities sharpens focus.
  • Using props like straws and visualization boosts exercise effectiveness.

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