The Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent (ASCK) has announced plans for this year's Alzheimer's Walk.
The 2021 fundraising event will be taking place on May 29 and it will be online again this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. ASCK is encouraging the public to walk, run, dance, do yoga or bake during the month of May to help support people living with dementia in Chatham-Kent.
Joel Emery, Fund Development and Administration Coordinator of the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent said the society helps more than 1,000 clients and care partners each year in Chatham-Kent and that number will continue to grow as the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia increases.
"Chances are you know someone who is affected by this illness," said Emery. "Donations ensure that no one is left behind when seeking ASCK’s wide variety of programs and services."
Virtual weekly celebrations will be held with prizes along with a safe, family-friendly scavenger hunt on May 29 in Chatham. During the scavenger hunt people can enjoy local nature spots and search for forget-me-not flower pinwheels with a team or by themselves. More information will be released later on how people can participate.
The top individual and team fundraisers will be presented with the Dawn Butler Memorial Award. This year's fundraising goal is $50,000. ASCK CEO Mary Ellen Parker and board member and walk host Robyn Brady said they will both their hair blue if their team (FantASCKtic Crew) raises $15,000.
The Walk for Alzheimer’s Show will be broadcast through ASCK’s Facebook page and YourTV Chatham on May 29 beginning at 11 a.m. This year’s Walk Ambassador, Chatham-Kent EMS General Manager Donald MacLellan, and Mayor Darrin Canniff will have messages.
Click here to register for this year’s walk and to donate.