Village Support Network Backs Resilient Health Communities in Expanding Brain Health Programs

Village Support Network Backs Resilient Health Communities in Expanding Brain Health Programs

Rockville, MD - August 13, 2025 – A nonprofit bringing innovative brain health programs to underserved communities is expanding its reach with the support of the Village Support Network (VSN). Resilient Health Communities, Inc. (RHC), founded by Rhonda Baird, JD, CPA, President and Village leader, is committed to empowering individuals and groups to address the challenges of dementia and social isolation.

As the founder and president of RHC and a founding member of Mo-Co Mid-County Village, Rhonda brings both professional expertise and a deep commitment to community service. Her work is inspired by her parents’ example of service and her father’s journey with Alzheimer’s. Guided by the belief that “brain health is foundational” to living a full and empowered life, she has focused on serving underserved and underrepresented populations who experience higher rates of dementia.

Anne Herbster, VSN President and experienced Village leader, played a pivotal role in helping Rhonda bring her vision to life. “Anne was instrumental in getting Resilient Health Communities off the ground,” said Rhonda. “Her support, encouragement, and practical guidance made it possible for us to begin serving others quickly and meaningfully.”

RHC leverages powerful tools such as Goodwin Living’s StrongerMemory program to provide accessible brain health solutions. StrongerMemory engages participants in daily reading, writing, and math activities that support memory, focus, and cognitive resilience. By partnering with a variety of organizations to include faith-based and community organizations, RHC brings these essential tools to those who need them most, breaking barriers and creating opportunities for healthier minds and brighter futures.

“Supporting Village leaders like Rhonda, and initiatives like RHC, is exactly why VSN exists,” said Kerri Donnelly, Board Member of the Village Support Network. “Villages are a trusted source of connection in their communities, and when visionary leaders and committed collaborators like Anne and Rhonda come together, the impact is immediate and lasting. We are excited to see how RHC continues to inspire and equip communities.”

For more information about Resilient Health Communities and its programs, visit www.resilienthealthcommunities.org. To learn more about the Village Support Network and its work with Villages and community organizations, visit www.villagesupportnetwork.org.