NYC’s Largest Alzheimer’s Awareness Walk Raises Over $600,000

CENTRAL PARK, Manhattan—On Sunday, October 10 at the Naumburg Bandshell in New York City’s Central Park, a crowd of people gathered to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s and dementia. The walk was hosted by CaringKind, the city’s leading  memory care organization. It raised over $600,000. The funds will go toward providing free programs and services to New Yorkers affected by the debilitating disease.

It was CaringKind’s first back-in-person event since the pandemic and the first one ever held in Central Park. This year, the walk honored philanthropist Susan Patricof who passed away in January after a 12-year battle with Alzheimer’s. Walkers were encouraged to register online by creating their own shareable fundraising page, or show up on Sunday to register in-person.

The looming threat of rain showers didn’t deter those in attendance who picked up ribbons and snacks, posed for photos in front of the step-and-repeat backdrop, and wrote heartfelt messages on the 360° memory wall before embarking on a two-mile loop led by a lively drum line.

Geriatric Dentist, Dr. Alisa Kauffman, was chosen to serve as chair of the walk for her work in providing home dental care to Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. MapHabit was also honored as Community Partner of the Year for their innovative, interactive care management platform. Its visual mapping system helps to improve cognition and reinforce routine habits to improve Alzheimer’s patient care and reduce the stress of family members and caregivers.

Broadway actor and director David Hyde Pierce also gave a rousing speech. Adina Segal, the Jewish outreach social worker for CaringKind said, “While we want a cure in the time that it’s going to take to get a cure, the people who have dementia and their families need help and assistance now with care, and we’re really devoted to providing the maximum support for them.” The organization is continuing to accept and encourage donations until November 30.