Meet our National Executive Team

Henry Carpenter

Founder and Co-President

My name is Henry Carpenter, and I am a junior at Lincoln High School. After learning that the memory care facility I volunteered at needed youth volunteers, I started Memory Care Connections in 2023 to give students an easy way to make a significant impact by writing letters to residents. I was completely overwhelmed by how many students joined to write to penpals and even volunteer in person. Seeing their enthusiasm and genuine engagement with their penpals showed me how many young people want to make a difference but just need the opportunity. I hope that Memory Care Connections can continue to serve as this opportunity for many more students in the future.

Adrian Schulman

Co-President

My name is Adrian Schulman, and I am a junior at Lincoln High School in Portland, Oregon. In 2023, I was inspired by the close relationship I have with my grandparents to begin volunteering at a memory care facility named Emerson House. I immediately found the connections I was making with the residents to be incredibly meaningful. When my friend Henry Carpenter, who was also volunteering at Emerson House, suggested that we start a club to more broadly connect high school students with people in memory care and assisted living communities, I jumped at the chance to partner with him on this endeavor. The experience has been very fulfilling to me, and I hope the residents we engage with gain as much from the time we spend together as I do.

Ben Kane

Co-Director of Expansion

My name is Ben Kane, and I am a junior at Lincoln High School. As a young student I feel as if I have a responsibility to give back to my community, and through my close relationships and love for my grandparents, I decided to join Memory Care Connections. This decision allowed me to personally volunteer at an assisted living facility, connect members of the assisted living facility to students through letters, and encourage others to volunteer. This decision ended up not only being a way to give back, but it ended up being a very positive experience which I continue to cherish and enjoy.

Thomas Carney

Co-Director of Expansion

My name is Thomas Carrey, and I am a junior at Lincoln High School. I enjoy collaborating with members of my community to give back and have found working with Memory Care Connections especially rewarding. Seeing the joy the letters bring to residents is incredible, as it highlights the positive impact I am making on their lives. Even small efforts, like sharing stories through letters, can create a meaningful difference.

Macleay Brundage

Director of Letter Deliveries

Hi my name is Macleay, one of my favorite parts of memory care connections is the deep sense of connection and purpose it gives me. The opportunity to make a positive difference in their lives whether through companionship, storytelling and writing is incredibly fulfilling. Working with them provides a unique chance to listen to their stories, share wisdom and to offer comfort when needed which is something I find to be special. More specifically being pen pals offers a lasting personal connection especially for those who might feel isolated or have difficulty communicating in other ways. I have created meaningful connections through this program and have taken away some good life advice in the process!