Walk to End Alzheimer's Fundraising Continues until Dec. 31

More than 325 area residents participated in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Fredericksburg. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants walked as individuals and small groups on sidewalks, tracks and trails across the greater Fredericksburg region on October 10, raising more than $94,000 to support the care, support and research programs of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Due to COVID-19 Walk participants are not fundraising in person and continue to raise funds to reach the goal of $183,000 for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Fredericksburg by December 31.

“The Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Fredericksburg has generated incredible support,” said Monica Owens, event chair. “COVID-19, however, continues to challenge Fredericksburg area families impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. We are continuing fundraising efforts through the end of the year to support local care and support programs and to accelerate important research.”

Since the pandemic hit in March, the Central and Western Virginia Chapter has been offering education and support programs online. In Virginia alone, there are more than 150,000 people living with the disease and 467,000 caregivers.

“We are seeing steady demand for our online education programs and support groups,” said Marie Kolendo, Sr. Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association – Central & Western Virginia Chapter. “Alzheimer’s can be a terribly isolating disease even under normal circumstances. Families tell us that being able to connect with us during the current pandemic has been a lifeline. We intend to continue to be there and support Fredericksburg area families throughout the pandemic and beyond.”

Fredericksburg area residents who were unable to participate in this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s but still want to make a donation can do so by visiting alz.org/grva.

“We are grateful to all of our volunteers, sponsors, participants and donors,” said Kolendo. “We are all facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their commitment to Walk to End Alzheimer’s makes an enormous difference to families impacted by this devastating disease and advancing the science that will change the course of this disease for millions.”

Alzheimer's Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.