Annual Alzheimer’s Walk takes over Coney

Coney Island went orange for a good cause as CaringKind’s annual Alzheimer’s Walk took over the Boardwalk to help raise money and awareness about the disease that affects over 5.4 million Americans.

The Sunday, September 18 fundraiser saw an abundance of participants donning orange – the organization’s official color – for the two-mile walk. According to CaringKind, the day’s goal was to raise $175,000 – money that will fund the free programs and services the organization provides for thousands of New Yorkers, families and caregivers affected by a dementia diagnosis.

“We are so thrilled at the wonderful turnout from Sunday’s CaringKind Alzheimer’s Walk in Brooklyn,” said President and CEO of CaringKind Lou-Ellen Barkan. “True to form, Brooklynites came out – decked out in orange with their kids and their dogs – and showed their amazing spirit. These compassionate New Yorkers have already raised more than $75,000 to provide free programs and services to the New York City Alzheimer’s and dementia community. We are so grateful to them for a successful Walk and encourage all Brooklynites who need our services to call our 24-Hour Helpline at 646-744-2900 and find out how we can help them.”

In addition to the walk, a special “Ribbon Memory Wall” was constructed so that walk participants could post mementos, messages or photos of someone in their lives they have cared for, or who is currently affected by Alzheimer’s.

“Every dollar raised stays right here in New York to help New York’s Alzheimer’s community,” the organization writes on its website. “CaringKind’s Alzheimer’s Walk has something for every member of the family with free breakfast, live entertainment, an activity area for children, and a Doggie Dugout for four-legged walkers.”

Formerly known as the Alzheimer’s Association, CaringKind’s mission is to “create, deliver, and promote comprehensive and compassionate care and support services for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research.”