Support Government funding for Alzheimer's Association

Dear Editor,

I am a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association, having made this commitment in memory of my father, David, who suffered for seven years with Alzheimer’s Disease, my aunt, Sally, my mother-in-law, Marcia and the many clients of my home care and bookkeeping companies who have suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease. My volunteerism with the Alzheimer’s Association began when I realized the devastation Alzheimer’s Disease was causing in the lives of so many of my clients. I was then personally affected when my hero, also known as my father, began to suffer the memory loss and many other devastating symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease. Through the years I have seen and benefited from the incredible care and support programs the Alzheimer’s Association provides and I continue to be active to make sure they can maintain the critical resources needed to help the nearly 1 million Illinoisans impacted by dementia.

With the COVID-19 breakout, I remain a steadfast supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association, but my ability to fundraise has been limited, as many aren’t able to donate. Recent stimulus legislation passed in Congress will help many small non-profits continue their work. However, larger entities with over 500 employees were not covered and are struggling to sustain themselves. The Alzheimer’s Association relies entirely on private donations, but most aren’t able to give in these precarious times.

I am asking my Congressman, Brad Schneider, to expand access to credit for nonprofits in the fourth stimulus package - we as a country cannot afford to lose extraordinary entities like the Alzheimer’s Association.

Thank you for your consideration,

Jackie Melinger

1649 St. Johns Avenue

Highland Park, IL 60035