Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's disease. Our work is about people and science.

The Alzheimer’s Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research and support, is a voluntary health organization dedicated to finding preventions, treatments, and eventually, a cure for Alzheimer dementia. The San Diego/Imperial Chapter strives to enhance care and support for the more than 360,000 individuals, their families and caregivers in our community coping with Alzheimer's disease by providing a broad range of programs and services throughout San Diego and Imperial counties.  We provide reliable information and care consultation, create supportive services for families, increase funding for dementia research, and influence public policy changes.  

The San Diego/Imperial Chapter was founded in 1980 by a small group of dedicated volunteers who had established the first support group meetings in San Diego County.  Anna Tucker started the first support group in Pacific Beach in April 1980, about the same time that Luna Odland started a group in Escondido.  Both were caregivers for their husbands.  We now sponsor 35 support groups including groups for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's.

Our mission

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.

Alzheimer's disease is the fourth leading cause of death in adults in San Diego & Imperial counties. There are an estimated 90,000 people with dementia and at least two or three caregivers for each one of them. In FY 2007, the San Diego/Imperial Chapter served more than 30,000 individuals, caregivers and families with direct services, and had more than 100,000 visitors to our website.

Your support of the Alzheimer's Association has been an important part of getting us to where we are today, 26 years after our founding, as the center of compassionate care and support for those in our community facing Alzheimer's every day.  With your continued support we can be there for so many more families.  Please join us in our mission.  There are many ways to get involved, as a volunteer, anor as a donor. 

You can make a difference by joining us today.

Lisa Bruner,
Executive Director

Financial information

The San Diego/Imperial Chapter is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donor-supported organization. Programs and services are made possible through contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations. The chapter uses 78% funds raised for programs, services and research efforts.  Our tax identification number is 95-3565388.  To review our latest IRS Form 990 tax return, click here.