Areas we serve
Office locations and phone numbersAbout us
The Alzheimer’s Association - Southeastern Virginia Chapter has been proudly helping those in need for the last 25 years. We serve the community on a local level with five offices reaching deep into the 7,400 square mile area. Our goal is to provide help for today and hope for tomorrow for those living with Alzheimer's disease and their families.
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.Our vision
A world without Alzheimer's disease.Financial information
The Alzheimer's Association- Southeastern Virginia 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% of funds raised for programs, services and research efforts.
Annual report
Board of directors
Board Officers
Marcie McMillin - President
Michael D. Morisi-Vice President
Nancy P. Faison- Treasurer
Sheila M. Powell -Secretary
Board Members
Diane Carvalho
Benjamin Huger, II, CFP
W. Hunter Old
Robert J. Prestridge, CLU, ChFC
Board Emerti
Lucille Cartwright
John Harris Kellam
Joan Rothrauff
Kay Van Cleave
Chapter staff
Executive Director
Gino V. Colombara
Director of Education & Family Services
Patricia Farish Lacey, MBA
Director of Development
Patricia Bartosch
Family Services Specialist
Carol Gurioli
Finance Manager
Patricia Woodis Education & Family Services Coordinator-Williamsburg Branch Office
Douglas Panto
Events Manager
Dana Geiger
Information Technology Manager
Alan Ibarra
Office Operations Manager
Rusty Barton
Our history
Twenty-five years ago if you said the words “Alzheimer’s disease” people would be silent with confusion, not knowing to what you were referring. Although Alzheimer’s disease wasn’t as well known as it is today it was equally as devastating. Only then, people really had nowhere to turn.
In 1981, a young local doctorial candidate, Terry Jenkins, was deep in the trenches with individuals suffering from this bewildering illness. Recognizing a severe need in the community, Dr. Jenkins began what was the first support group in the area. The meeting took place in June with 8 participants and grew in a matter of months to approximately 65 attendees. It was during one of these meetings in 1982 that a steering committee was formed to initiate work to establish a chapter of the National Alzheimer’s Association.
Lucille Cartwright, an essential member of that committee, was instrumental in bringing what was then the Hampton Roads Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association to life. Today she recalls a time when even leaders in the medical community were unaware about this disease that seemed to be affecting more and more individuals. With foresight and willingness to serve a dedicated few have helped thousands throughout our service area over the past quarter-century.
Five offices, and 25 years later, there is no question that there is still much work to be done, but we are proud to say that today there is a place to turn. As we celebrate twenty-five years of service, we reflect on all those who have called upon our services. Many have since succumbed to the battle against Alzheimer’s - but we do not. In their memory, we remain steadfast in our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.
