We Are Here For You!

Our team is comprised of a dedicated and compassionate staff and volunteers. Many whom have had deeply personal experiences in caring for their loved ones. Every member is trained to the highest standards of their position. We even have volunteers with professional geriatric credentials and experience who kindly donate their time to care for our clients. This team is led by Lea VanMerkenstyn. The best description of Lea is by one of our board members (who lost her mother to Alzheimer’s Disease):

“Lea’s heart of gold is only matched by her shining soul. Witnessing her comfort and compassion with the clients is enchanting.”

– Julie Rieger, Board Member, former President at Fox Film & Author of “The Ghost Photographer”

Lea VanMerkestyn: Program Director

Lea is originally from Chicago, Illinois and received her BS in Music Education, from the University of Illinois, in Champaign-Urbana. While working on her masters degree at the University of Memphis, she began teaching intergenerational music classes. This led her to begin working with those who were living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. She founded her “Musical Memories” business in Memphis, TN in 2000.

Lea served on the Board of several music education organizations and was the operations manager of the Memphis Jazz Workshop.

Lea’s favorite thing about working at Life Circle is the opportunity to spread joy to those who are living with challenging life changes and to help provide respite for their family members.

• AED-CPR certified.
• ServSafe Certified
• Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care Dementia training
• Health Rhythms Group Empowerment Drumming Facilitator

Dru

Dru is originally from Portsmouth, Hampshire, England and moved to Santa Fe 8 years ago. He is married and has two daughters. Dru has a varied care background, working with developmentally disabled adults as a care officer and job coach, as well as working as a resident therapist in an addiction and trauma center. He is also a Kundalini Yoga teacher, kids wrestling coach, and ordained Interfaith Minister & Spiritual Counsellor.  

Favorite part of working at Life Circle:
 I enjoy building relationships with people and creating a safe and comfortable environment for our clients. I also enjoy creating happy memories for our clients and ensuring they have a great day each time they are with us. 

• Serve Safe Certified
• Kundalini Yoga teacher

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Elizabeth

Elizabeth is from Chihuahua, Mexico and loves caring for others.  She has 15 years experience in caring for seniors. A mom to two children, Elizabeth loves church and also teaches Sunday School.

Elizabeth’s favorite part of working at Life Circle is meeting lots of new people and making them smile.

• AED-CPR certified.
• ServSafe Certified
• Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care Dementia training