Room 31 Project Hope | Lewy body Dementia

About Us

Room 31 Project Hope is a non-profit organization committed to providing comprehensive support and raising awareness for patients and families affected by Lewy Body Dementia (LBD). Our mission is to foster a compassionate community where no one feels isolated or without resources. We aim to guide families toward accurate diagnoses, effective treatments, and supportive networks.

Founded by a dedicated niece and aunt duo, Room 31 Project Hope is inspired by their personal journey with LBD. Their beloved family member, Michael Zehm, a celebrated educator, faced a grueling and lonely five-year process to receive an accurate diagnosis. This non-profit is created in his honor to ensure that other families do not have to endure the same struggles.

Michael Zehm dedicated over 35 years of his life to teaching at Ramona Elementary before retiring in 2017. Known for his passion and commitment to education, he touched countless lives. In 2022, he was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, a disease that has slowly taken him away from his loved ones.

Room 31 Project Hope is dedicated to raising funds to support new research and therapies for LBD patients. We strive to create an informational and support hub, offering valuable resources, counseling services, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for those impacted by this challenging disease. Our goal is to ensure that no family feels alone on this journey and that every patient has access to the care and support they need.

A Beacon of Hope

In the face of a seemingly hopeless disease, Room 31 Project Hope stands as a beacon of hope. Lewy Body Dementia can be a devastating diagnosis, bringing with it immense challenges and a sense of despair. However, we believe in the power of hope and the strength of community. Through our efforts, we aim to illuminate the path for patients and families, showing them that there is support, understanding, and love available.

Our project is not just about addressing the immediate needs of those affected by LBD, but also about inspiring hope for the future. By funding research and promoting awareness, we are working towards a world where effective treatments and possibly a cure for LBD can be found. We want to give families the hope that, even in the darkest times, there is light and there are people who care.

Meet the Team

Executive Director

Erika Barner

Erika Barner
Erika Barner, the daughter of Michael Zehm, brings a wealth of experience to Room 31 Project Hope. Over the past 14 years, Erika has worked in the biotech industry and has played a significant role in building brand presence on social media for several companies. Her collaboration with several companies and industries over the past 14 years has honed her skills in social media, customer relations, and strategic business development.

Erika's aptitude for fostering personal relationships with customers is a cornerstone of her success, enabling her to discern unique needs and craft tailor-made solutions. She has even contributed to the design of new products, showcasing her innovative approach.

With a background in political science and extensive campaign experience, Erika brings a distinctive perspective to Room 31 Project Hope. Her multifaceted contributions epitomize the organization’s commitment to transformative support and strategic growth. Erika's dedication to helping families navigate the challenges of Lewy Body Dementia ensures that Room 31 Project Hope remains a beacon of hope and a vital resource for those in need.

Treasurer

Laura Zehm

Laura Zehm, Michael Zehm's sister, co-founded Room 31 Project Hope with Erika. Laura is an innovative and collaborative Strategic and Financial Executive with over 36 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Her expertise spans strategy, operations, business transformation, and mergers and acquisitions. A long-time resident of Monterey County, Laura has also strengthened the relationship of 1st Capital Bank within the community.

Laura graduated from Western Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and earned her Master’s degree in Business Administration from Golden Gate University. She is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors and has been recognized as a finalist of the 50 Women to Watch by 50/50 Women on Boards Inc, a global nonprofit dedicated to accelerating gender balance and diversity on corporate boards.

Driven by her personal experience with her brother’s journey through Lewy Body Dementia, Laura’s deep understanding of the emotional and logistical challenges faced by families dealing with LBD fuels her passion for the organization’s mission. Her dedication to honoring her brother's legacy and ensuring that other families do not have to endure the same struggles is at the heart of Room 31 Project Hope.

Together with Erika, Laura works tirelessly to create a compassionate community where no one feels isolated or without resources. Laura embodies the spirit of hope and resilience, helping to guide Room 31 Project Hope in providing comprehensive support and raising awareness for those affected by Lewy Body Dementia.

Inspiration

Micheal Zehm

Michael Zehm, whose inspiring journey is the cornerstone of Room 31 Project Hope, dedicated over 35 years of his life to education. As a beloved teacher at Ramona Elementary School, Michael touched countless lives with his passion for learning and his unwavering commitment to his students' success. He retired in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and compassion in the classroom.

In 2022, Michael was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia after a challenging five-year search for answers. His personal struggle with this debilitating disease highlighted the need for greater awareness, support, and resources for those affected by LBD. Despite the immense challenges posed by his illness, Michael's strength and resilience continue to inspire his family and the broader community.

Michael's story is at the heart of Room 31 Project Hope. His dedication to education and his courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia motivate us to provide comprehensive support and raise awareness for others facing similar challenges. By honoring Michael's legacy, we aim to ensure that no family feels alone in their journey with LBD, embodying the hope and resilience that Michael has shown throughout his life.