The Alzheimer's Association launched the Accounting Industry Leadership Council in early 2020. Today, it boasts 20 firms as members with plans to raise $600,000 for Alzheimer’s research, care and support this year.
The Council is a dedicated group of volunteer leaders from the accounting industry. It was formed with two goals in mind: providing critical information about Alzheimer’s and dementia to the industry and engaging firms in philanthropy through the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
Peter J. Scalise, Founding Chairman of the Accounting Industry Leadership Council and Managing Director, Prager Metis CPAs, LLC, says: “Accounting professionals are often among the first to notice early signs of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia in our family office clients. People may have problems keeping up with bills or begin making impulsive decisions.” He explains, “We wanted to be able to provide credible resources and have a forum to discuss our industry’s unique perspectives. The Accounting Industry Leadership Council was borne of this shared commitment to help families dealing with dementia.”
Accounting firms also wanted a nationwide cause that employees could support. The Council chose to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s — the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Each fall, walks are held in more than 625 communities across the country, giving firms the chance to participate in their local area.
Rob Lucas, Director of Corporate Initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association, explains: “Accounting firms have offices across the country, and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a good fit because walks happen locally. You walk with members of your own community who are impacted by dementia and see firsthand the difference you are making.”
The Council provides ideas, best practices and support to the development of sustainable corporate initiatives through quarterly conference calls and an annual meeting. The firms currently represented on the Council include: Baker Tilly, BDO, BerryDunn, CLA, Deloitte, Eisner Amper LLP, EY, Friedman LLP, Grant Thornton, Hawkins Ash CPAs, KPMG, KraftCPAs, KrostCPAs, Mengel Metzger Barr & Co. LLP, Moss Adams, PKF O’Connor Davies, Prager Metis, PwC U.S. Financial Services, RSM US, and Weaver.
To learn more about the Accounting Industry Leadership Council, please contact
Rob Lucas.
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads 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. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.