05/20/2026
A delegation from Team Thysse had the opportunity to witness a historic moment today as Agrace broke ground on what is believed to be the first dementia village of its kind in the United States.
The community is modeled after The Hogeweyk (“hog-wick”) village in the Netherlands, whose innovative approach to dementia care has become internationally recognized over the past 20 years for the dignity, quality of life, and sense of community it has helped create.
Speakers at the Fitchburg ceremony included Agrace CEO Lynne Sexten, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, Fitchburg Mayor Julie Arata-Fratta, and major donor Peter Johnson.
The sincere and deeply personal remarks shared throughout the event reinforced something everyone in attendance could feel: the growing need for better support, environments, and care for those living with dementia—and for the families walking alongside them.
It’s an inspiring project, and we’re grateful to witness the beginning of something that has the potential to impact countless lives.
