About Us
The Dream and The Team
The Meemaw and Peepaw Project is a faith-guided, community-based nonprofit serving individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease and all forms of dementia in Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle.
Inspired by Proverbs 17:22 "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries the bones.", we believe that compassion, joy, and human connection are just as essential to dementia care as education and resources. Our work honors the dignity of every Meemaw and Peepaw while strengthening and supporting the caregivers who love them.
Through programs like the Comfort Closet, Angel Arms, Boxes of Joy, and many others, we provide practical help and heartfelt encouragement during some of life's most challenging seasons.
We exist to meet families where they are. Offering comfort, community, and hope when memories fade but love remains.
Our Story
The Meemaw and Peepaw Project was born from love, loss, and a deep understanding of what dementia takes, and what it leaves behind.
Founder Brooke Harlan grew up watching hummingbirds with her grandfather, a man whose life was later touched by dementia. As his memories faded, what remained was the need for connection, dignity, and joy. Like so many families, Brooke saw first hand how caregivers often feel overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure where to turn for support that feels both practical and personal.
What was missing was't information, it was community.
The Meemaw and Peepaw Project was created to fill that gap. Rooted in faith and fueled by compassion, our mission is to remind families that they are not alone and that joy still has a place in dementia care.
This project is a love letter to our elders, a lifeline for caregivers, and a promise that even in the hardest season, a joyful heart can still be good medicine.
Meet the Board
Founder/ Executive Director
Brooke Harlan
With roots in Canadian, Texas, I've called Amarillo home for my entire adult life. Professionally, I'm a dedicated registered nurse with 9 years of experience and a strong background in memory care. As the wife of a police officer and mother of three children (ages 9, 6, & 4), I'm proud to balance my personal and professional life. Our family is also comprised of four beloved pets: Ava, a schnoodle; Bennie, a goldendoodle; Archie, Doberman; and Lucy, a cat. My passion for healthcare, particularly memory care, began 20 years ago while working at a local nursing home. I've since honed my skills in the ER before transitioning to home health and hospice. Dementia became very personal when I had two grandparents both have life altering strokes, causing dementia. I'm also the Executive Chair for the Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's, a role I've held for three consecutive years. Outside of work, I enjoy baking, gardening, and coffee and wine appreciation.
Co-Chair, Events & Programs Director
Shelly Gilbreth
I’m a lifelong dementia advocate, called by God to serve, educate, and love people well especially our cherished meemaws and peepaws. What started as personal caregiving grew into a true ministry, and I’ve devoted my life to dementia education and advocacy by hosting support groups and trainings throughout Amarillo and Canyon. This isn’t just my work, it’s my purpose.
When I’m not pouring into others, you’ll find me thrifting for hidden treasures, putting together a cute outfit, or traveling with my favorite adventure buddy my son, Jayden. Making memories with him is one of my greatest blessings.
I’m incredibly grateful for my sweet boyfriend, Jermaine, who is the head coach of the Amarillo Warbirds and who shares my heart for seniors, service, and faith. Family means everything to me, and some of my happiest moments are spent with my mom and dad usually with our sweet Yorkie, Pickles right by our side.
Co-Chair, Secretary, & Treasurer
Makayla Stewart
I first stepped into the world of caregiving at just 17 years old, not fully knowing what to expect when I started my first job as a caregiver. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love—with my work, my residents, and the families I served.
I have been a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association for the past three years, immersing myself more deeply each year. The fulfillment I receive from helping educate others about Alzheimer’s and dementia is truly beyond comparison.
Today, I serve as the Caregiver Support Program Coordinator for the Area Agency on Aging of the Panhandle. Supporting caregivers has always been a huge passion of mine, and this role allows me to do just that. After all, if a caregiver has no support, they cannot fully support their loved one.
I’m blessed with an amazing husband and two children, ages 7 and 3, who support all of the (mostly unpaid) extracurricular roles I sign up for. They are my world and the reason I’m able to give back to our community in such a meaningful and much-needed way.
