It’s hard to believe that almost two years have passed since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. We have faced unprecedented challenges in the way we live, work and connect with one another. Yet throughout these challenging times, we have remained resilient and focused on our ongoing commitment to serve those in our community affected by Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.
It is with that thought in mind that we eagerly welcome the New Year, looking toward innovative and exciting opportunities to drive our mission as we recognize our successes in 2021, including:
- 11,000+ people in our community served through our virtual education programs, support groups, early stage programs, and care consultations.
- Seven new projects launched to promote dementia awareness in the Black, Latino, Chinese and LGBT communities.
- State advocacy “wins” with 1) the passage of four Alzheimer’s-related legislations in Maryland; 2) renewed funding for a dementia case management program in Virginia; and 3) dementia training for direct care workers in the District of Columbia.
- Over $2 million raised through our special events, including the Brain Ball gala, The Longest Day, and Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
- 600+ volunteers who provided over 5,600 hours of service.
Ground-breaking findings presented at the annual Alzheimer’s Association International Conference last July, and the FDA’s approval of aducanumab, the first treatment to address the underlying biology of Alzheimer’s, have given millions of Americans living with dementia new hope as we advance research toward methods of treatment, prevention and, ultimately, a cure.
This is an exciting time to be part of the Alzheimer’s Association! Each of you who has shared your time, talent and resources have played a vital role in our success. With the New Year comes a new opportunity for you to make a difference in the fight to end Alzheimer’s. I encourage you to not only continue your current support, but to explore new ways to get involved, share our resources with others, and invite them to join our cause.
- Learn. Attend a free education program. Invite your company, faith community, civic organization, etc. to host a program and help us reach even more people with critical information about Alzheimer’s.
- Connect. Call our free 24/7 Helpline. Schedule a care consultation. Join a support group or early stage program.
- Volunteer. Join an outreach or event committee, lead a support group, or deliver community presentations.
- Advocate. Become an advocate. Join us for Virginia Advocacy Day on Thursday, January 27 and Maryland Advocacy Week, starting on February 14. We’ll have information soon on D.C. Advocacy Day and our annual Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) Advocacy Forum.
- Participate. Sign up for The Longest Day or Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Sponsor our Brain Ball gala on May 6.
- Share. Invite your family, friends and colleagues to sign up for our weekly e-newsletter and engage with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.
While we still are in the midst of this challenging and uncertain time, we look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead in 2022. Your efforts as a volunteer, advocate and/or donor have made – and continue to make – a difference in the lives of those facing Alzheimer’s. On behalf of our staff and board of directors, our deepest thanks for your continued support and commitment to our shared vision of a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.
With gratitude and best wishes for the New Year,
Kate Rooper
Chapter President and CEO
Alzheimer's Association National Capital Area Chapter