Author: Lee Starr
Hello, my name is Lee Starr, and this is my story of how I became a volunteer with the Alzheimer's Association. It all started when I attended a volunteer fair in Glenview. I met some incredible staff members from the Alzheimer's Association, and after chatting with them, I felt like it would be a great fit for me. Excited about the opportunity, I gave them all my information, and soon after, I received a call that set everything into motion.
I was introduced to Krystal, who told me about the Longest Day fundraiser. The Longest Day is a unique event that encourages people to participate in activities they love while raising funds and awareness for Alzheimer's care, support, and research. Knowing I could help by making calls and doing mailings, I eagerly began my journey.
Living in Evanston, I decided to reach out to organizations on the North Shore. I started with local libraries, senior centers, and senior living locations. Then, I extended my efforts to fraternal organizations like the Lions, Kiwanis, Rotary, Elks, Moose, Knights of Columbus, and Shriners. The response was positive, and I felt a growing sense of purpose.
Exploring the Longest Day website, I found activities that looked fun and engaging like karaoke, crafting, bowling, and various recreation center activities. I thought about the people and places where a flyer might make the most impact, reaching out to those who might care about Alzheimer's or know someone with the disease, or be interested in philanthropic work.
In total, I sent out about 300 flyers. My main activity for the Longest Day fundraiser was making calls and mailing these flyers. It brought me immense joy to raise Alzheimer's awareness and show people how they could get involved in a way that they enjoyed.
Although the Longest Day has passed and folks have finished their events, this project continues throughout the year. There is still much work to be done, and I hope to inspire others to join me in the fight to end Alzheimer's. Together, we can make a difference.
The Longest Day is all about love: love for our family members, friends and neighbors living with Alzheimer’s disease, and for their heroic caregivers, whose days are truly never ending.
Team up with the Alzheimer’s Association, select an activity you love, and plan your event on or around The Longest Day.
Volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Association has not only allowed me to make a difference in the lives of others but has also enriched my own life in countless ways. The experience has taught me the value of empathy, patience, and resilience. It has reinforced my belief in the power of community and the importance of advocating for a world without Alzheimer’s.
I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause and remain committed to supporting the Alzheimer’s Association in its mission to advance research, provide care and support, and promote brain health. My journey in volunteering has been a testament to the impact that collective effort and compassion can have on creating positive change.
Unsure of what to do for The Longest Day? For more information for ideas click here, We’ve also compiled activity ideas for you – Find An Activity That You Love!
The possibilities for The Longest Day are endless, remember, it is all about love!
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