We are pleased to present our 2024 Year in Review, showcasing the important progress we’ve made in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease over the last year right here in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Our staff, community partners, volunteers, and public policy advocates have worked tirelessly to support the 156,000 individuals living with this disease across our two states.
We are proud to present our 2024 Year in Review, highlighting the significant progress we’ve made in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and all other dementia over the past year. Together, our dedicated volunteers, board members, community partners, public policy advocates and staff have provided invaluable support for the nearly 162,000 individuals living with this disease across Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
With the FDA’s approval of Kisunla (donanemab) in July, we now have two groundbreaking drugs that can slow the progression of the disease in its early stages, with more promising treatments on the horizon. Researchers continue to make progress in the areas of prevention and diagnostics, with many new advances in the pipeline. By sharing your time and resources, you have brought us to this pivotal moment. We continue to fuel critical progress in dementia science, investing in promising research that is tackling the disease from multiple angles – including over $24 million in active funding awarded to local researchers. At the same time, we are empowering and mobilizing our community to give all people access to early diagnosis, treatment, and quality care throughout their journey.
Over the past year, we have served more than 24,000 individuals who have accessed our breadth of education programs, support groups, and early-stage social engagement programs both in-person and online, and Dementia Care Coordination support, all at no cost to families. We continue to expand the range of programs and services we offer to ensure care and support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, their families, and healthcare professionals.
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, this year we have raised over $16 million to continue funding research and care and support programs in local communities across our two states. Our advocacy efforts resulted in increased federal resources for research and caregiver support, plus additional local funding to expand awareness initiatives and our Dementia Care Coordination program (DCC).
We continue to grow our diversity and inclusion initiatives, reaching new communities and strengthening our volunteer network. This year, we expanded our outreach to underserved areas, forming new partnerships with community leaders and grassroots organizations, with a focus on the Black, Latinx and Haitian communities.
None of this would be possible without your unwavering support, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment.
Joe Salerno, Chair, MA/NH Chapter Board of Directors
James Wessler, CEO, MA/NH Chapter and New England Regional Leader