NEWS RELEASE
ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF NIAGARA REGION
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With the extended state of emergency and continued restrictions due to COVID-19, the Alzheimer Society Niagara Foundation’s Board of Directors made the difficult, but necessary decision to cancel the 2020 Peter Saracino Alzheimer Golf Classic.
The tournament, usually held the first Wednesday in June at Peninsula Lakes Golf & Country Club in Pelham is one of the Society’s signature fundraising events.
Last year, it raised a record breaking $58,000 in net revenue. To augment the existing programs and services offered for people living with dementia and their care partners in Niagara, the Alzheimer Society Niagara Foundation must raise $500,000 annually.
“When we made the decision to cancel we knew we would have to go back to all of our sponsors and golfers and offer their money back,” said Golf Chair, Bob Miller. “It has been such a difficult time for so many. Everyone has been impacted by this pandemic - our donors and sponsors and especially our clients.”
WMKL Chartered Professional Accountants and Business Advisors have been the title sponsor of the tournament for the past 14 years. When they were approached, they not only said they would convert their sponsorship into an unrestricted donation, they also more than tripled the amount to $25,000 to be immediately put to use for the area of greatest need at the Society.
Cooper Wealth Management of RBC Securities donated $6,000 in lieu of their annual dinner sponsorship. Portage Mutual Insurance committed $1,750 which was more than the original lunch sponsorship. Many other sponsors have also generously converted their sponsorship funds to become a donation for 2020.
“I cannot tell you how honoured I am to be part of such a great community! These past few months have been challenging for our organization and the people we serve but when we receive this calibre of support and compassion for the work we do – it is a testament of all the good in the world! We are truly blessed,” says Teena Kindt, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region.
The Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region’s office is currently closed to the public but services have still continued with phone support and counselling, as well as education, support groups and social functions online. The effects of isolation and loneliness can have severe negative impacts on the health of seniors. Caregivers and people living with dementia are more isolated than ever and depending on the Alzheimer Society.
If you or someone you know is struggling with cognitive changes, the Alzheimer Society is here to support you. You do not need a referral for services and there is no fee for any of the programs and one-to-one support counselling provided by dementia professionals.
For information on making a referral online: www.alzheimerniagara.ca/refer or to make a donation and see the list of community supporters: www.alzheimerniagara.ca/golf or call the office 905-687-3914.
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