Community Corner
Walk to End Alzheimer's raises more than $160,000
More than 800 gather on the Walkway Over the Hudson on Oct. 19
On Saturday, Oct. 19, more than 800 people gathered on the Highland side of the Walkway Over the Hudson for the Dutchess/Ulster Walk to End Alzheimer’s. So far the walk has raised more than $160,000 and is nearly 90 percent to its goal of $180,000.
“It was so humbling to see so many people united to make a difference,” said Walk Manager Tina Eckert. “On walk day, all our committee’s hard work truly paid off. I thank them for everything they did to make the event such a success.”
Family-oriented activities at the walk included an arts and crafts tent for kids, Bee Bee the Clown and face painting by Let’s Do Paint with Jill Dunay. Breakfast snacks provided by Hannaford were available during registration.There was a selfie photo booth and a tribute tent where people could post paper flowers in honor of loved ones.
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Prior to the opening ceremony, Jim Gordon of Laughing at Aging created an atmosphere of levity by leading people in laughter yoga exercises that included laughing aloud, shaking their arms and jumping around.
Several officials attended the opening program, including Rep. Antonio Delgado, who spoke about his efforts to assist the cause. Also present were Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, State Sen. Sue Serino, Dutchess County District Attorney William Grady and Lisa Berger, Director of the Ulster County Office of Economic Development.
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Wearing kilts and playing bagpipes, members of The Ancient Order of Hibernians kicked off the walk, leading participants onto the bridge. When they reached the Poughkeepsie side of the Walkway, they were greeted by an a cappella performance by the Evergreen Chorus. Upon returning to the Highland side, they were treated to a lunch of hot dogs and hamburgers provided by the 110 Rod and Gun Club.
Fundraising will continue past the walk date, with donations accepted through Dec. 31. Those interested in registering or making a donation can do so at WalkwayWalk.org.
About the Walk to End Alzheimer’s
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs. Participants learn about Alzheimer's disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical-study enrollment and support programs and services.
About the Hudson Valley Chapter
The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. To learn more about programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley.
About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
