Success Story: Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care

Beyond Memory Loss: Chico Program Brings Joy and Dignity to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care

Location: Northern California | Butte County | Chico

Business Type: Healthcare and Social Assistance

Small Business Center: Butte College SBDC

Assistance Received: Business Planning, Financial Management, and One-on-One Consulting

California State Assembly District: 3 

California State Senate District: 1 

Visit Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care online

Inspired by her personal experiences supporting a loved one with dementia, Jessica Bernhardt, RN, CDP, and her team created Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care. This innovative program is a non-traditional, person-centered adult day program supporting individuals living with memory loss. Unlike conventional models, the business brings a fresh, engaging approach that blends therapeutic programming with creative arts, nature-based outings, and meaningful social connection. Up to six guests each day are welcome in the warm, inviting setting designed to supervise and inspire, focusing on what remains strong in each person. 

The program offers experiences that spark joy, preserve dignity, and enhance quality of life. The Hope team believes that brain health is nurtured through social engagement, purposeful activity, and wholesome nutrition. They provide daily healthy, organic meals to nourish the body while enriching the mind, and essential relief and encouragement to caregivers navigating the journey of dementia care, and education to prevent caregiver burnout. 

Jessica, a registered nurse, saw firsthand the need for person-centered, joyful care, and how difficult it is for families to find programs that truly engage and uplift their loved ones. 

“I wanted to create a space where people with memory loss are seen, valued, and given meaningful ways to connect, create, and thrive each day,” Jessica shared. “And most of all, given the love and nurturing that they need.” 

But turning that vision into reality presented significant challenges. Jessica was starting a care-based program in the middle of a shifting healthcare landscape. She needed to reach the right families, earn their trust, and assemble a team that shared her passion. One of the most significant challenges she faced was navigating the licensing process. 

The licensing process was particularly difficult because the California Community Care Licensing Division and the California Department of Social Services had never seen a program like hers. Jessica found herself working through uncharted territory, clarifying policies, reinterpreting rules, and advocating for a model that did not fit the traditional mold. 

That’s when she connected with the Butte College SBDC and advisor Ronn. The SBDC provided practical, local support at every stage of her business development, from crafting a solid business plan to understanding financial management. The one-on-one business consulting was incredibly impactful, with expertise and thoughtful guidance on structuring the business and identifying funding options. 

“My advisor’s expertise and thoughtful guidance on structuring the business and identifying funding options were invaluable,” Jessica shared. “He asked the right questions and offered real-world advice that I could immediately act on.” 

The support gave Jessica clarity and direction during the tough early months. The encouragement helped her push through challenges and continue growing with confidence, even as she navigated the unprecedented licensing hurdles. 

“I’m grateful for the support and guidance I received from Butte College SBDC, which truly helped me jump-start my dream,” Jessica reflected. “Ronn’s insight gave me the confidence to turn my vision into a sustainable business that serves a vital need in our community.” 

Today, Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care is successfully serving individuals with memory loss and their families in Butte County. The program provides not just supervision, but inspiration. Not just activities, but meaningful engagement. Not just care, but connection, creativity, and joy. Jessica has created exactly what she set out to build: a space where people with dementia are seen, valued, and given opportunities to thrive each day. Learn more about Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care by visiting them online at hopedementiacare.com or following them on social media. 

Are you a California entrepreneur developing innovative healthcare or social service programs? Connect with the Butte College SBDC to access business planning support, financial guidance, and one-on-one consulting to help bring your vision to life. 

1/2/2026