Kendal's Commitment to Alzheimer's Awareness Inspires Hope Across Communities

August 28, 2024 —In the spirit of care and community, Kendals across the country will again support an important vision to end Alzheimer’s disease and all other dementias. Kendal Affiliates are stepping up to bring this fight into the spotlight, one walk at a time. This September, four Kendal Affiliates are supporting three Alzheimer’s walks, with five more scheduled throughout the fall. With this initiative, Kendal is not just raising awareness but also fostering a sense of unity and purpose in the battle against Alzheimer’s and dementia.

A Unified Front for Alzheimer’s Awareness

Kendal’s involvement in Alzheimer’s walks is more than just a charitable gesture—it’s a coordinated effort to make a tangible difference. The walks are spearheaded by Kendal at Oberlin and Kendal at Home on September 7, 2024, coordinated by Kim Preston and Kim Blair. Simultaneously, Kendal at Lexington and Kendal at Ithaca will participate on September 14, 2024, led by Adam Feldbauer and Maria Giampaolo, respectively. These events highlight Kendal’s commitment to engaging staff, residents, and the broader community in a cause that affects millions.

The Genesis of Generosity

How did this initiative take root? It began with a vision—a vision to increase connection and cooperation with the Alzheimer’s Association and to create a world without Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Since 2018, Diane Massey, the Director of Outreach and Engagement with The Kendal Corporation, has championed efforts to enhance collaboration and awareness around the Walk to End Alzheimer’s when she started a walk team for The Kendal Corporation employees. Each year since 2020, proposals have been brought before the Kendal Charitable Funds board, advocating for financial support to encourage staff participation and Affiliate involvement. New in 2024, the board approved a $5,000 allocation to each Affiliate, empowering them to either secure a sponsorship level with their local walk or contribute directly to their Walk team.

Building Bridges and Strengthening Bonds

The impact of this initiative extends far beyond initial expectations. Affiliates like Kendal at Lexington are now exploring becoming a Walk location site for the 2025 season, showcasing their dedication to building a resource hub for local memory support. Meanwhile, Collington has connected with a community needs assessment process thanks to an Alzheimer’s forum. Barclay Friends and The Kendal Corporation have formed a collaborative team, as have Kendal at Home and Kendal at Oberlin, highlighting the close collaboration within the Kendal System.

Monthly meetings among the System-wide group have fostered a supportive environment where ideas are exchanged, successes are celebrated, and encouragement flows freely. This collaboration empowers Affiliates and strengthens Kendal’s position as a key participant in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Amplifying Kendal’s Message

Through these generous funds, Kendal aims to convey a powerful message to the greater communities it serves. The Alzheimer’s Association, the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research, highlights the urgency of addressing this growing concern. Nearly 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s, and the annual number of new cases is projected to double by 2050. Kendal’s efforts showcase its dedication to being an advocate and resource for those experiencing dementia, Alzheimer’s, or cognitive decline.

A Grateful Acknowledgment

Diane shares, “I have a deep appreciation for the passion and dedication displayed by Kendal Affiliates. Their commitment to making a difference in the lives of others is commendable and motivates the entire organization. Additionally, the Kendal Charitable Funds board’s support and recognition of the value of System-wide efforts and initiatives is truly special. Their collective vision and dedication are instrumental in driving positive change.”

Join Kendal in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s

Kendal’s commitment to Alzheimer’s awareness and the fight against dementia is not just a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing mission. Through collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision, Kendal Affiliates continue to make a meaningful impact. If Kendal’s efforts inspire you and want to get involved, consider joining the movement. Together, we can create a world where Alzheimer’s and other dementias are a thing of the past.

Kendal Affiliate Supported Walks