Community members gathered at the John M. Parrott Centre on Saturday for the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, raising funds to support local dementia services through the Alzheimer Society of KFLA.
Before walkers set out on the route, organizers announced that Mike Airhart’s McDougall Insurance team had raised $11,000, surpassing the event’s fundraising goal of $10,000.
The annual walk helps fund free support programs for people living with dementia and their caregivers. The Alzheimer Society of KFLA relies heavily on community fundraising, with about 60 per cent of its budget coming from donations and events.
Participants followed a route around the John M. Parrott Centre, Richmond Park Drive and the Napanee Fairgrounds. Trivia questions along the course helped raise awareness about dementia and the challenges faced by those living with the condition.
Members of the Napanee Raiders hockey team joined walkers, along with representatives from municipal, provincial and federal government.
Organizers also highlighted the growing need for dementia support services as the number of Canadians affected by dementia continues to rise.
An official total from the fundraiser is expected to be announced in the coming days.
