Local Woman Leaves Lasting Impact
This Women’s History Month, we are highlighting a remarkable Erie woman, Audrée Parr.
She passed away in January at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of philanthropy and advocacy for families struggling with Parkinson’s disease.
When her husband, Jim, was diagnosed with the debilitating illness at age 50, Audrée became a dedicated advocate and caregiver. She soon recognized there were limited resources for families facing a Parkinson's diagnosis, and—determined to make a difference—she launched a support group in her living room. This group grew into Parkinson Partners of Northwestern Pennsylvania, a fully-fledged nonprofit organization dedicated to providing advocacy, support, and resources for families affected by Parkinson’s disease.
To honor her impassioned work and continue their parents' legacy, the Parr children established the Audrée and James Parr Parkinson Fund at HHF. This new fund extends the couple’s effort, helping families affected by the disease by supporting the programs provided by Parkinson's Partners of Northwest Pennsylvania.