Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association was founded in 1980 by a group of family caregivers and individuals who recognized the need for an organization that would unite caregivers, provide support to those facing Alzheimer’s and advance research into the disease.
Nationally, Jerome H. Stone, a true visionary in the Alzheimer’s movement, was the association’s founding president. When his wife, Evelyn, was diagnosed with the disease in 1970, information about Alzheimer’s — even among the medical community — was limited. With drive and determination, Mr. Stone took a disease that was cloaked in silence and helped to create a global conversation.
The Colorado Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association has existed since the 1980s as well. The northeast region of the state has been served through a regional office in Greeley, with strong relationships with local volunteers and community partners in Sterling, Logan County, and throughout the region.
The Memory Walk, what is now referred to as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, started in Sterling in 1991 by a group of dedicated volunteers; Connie Clark, Kathy Kaufman, Georgia Kelsch, Nicki Johnson, Richard Ontevaris, Julie Fuller, Bonnie Waker and Dene Carter. This year, the Northeastern Plains Walk to End Alzheimer’s celebrated its 20th anniversary on the Logan County Courthouse Lawn on Saturday, Aug. 28 and raised $36,980!
Walk to End Alzheimer’s allows the Alzheimer’s Association to offer its services at cost, which include access to a 24/7 Helpline staffed by master’s level clinicians, local care consultation services, caregiver support group, and education programming. Coming out of the pandemic, stay tuned for a monthly education class and support group starting up again in 2022.
In addition to our invaluable volunteers, staff partners include Development Manager, Ashley Flores, and Kelly Osthoff, Senior Director of Programs. You can contact Ashley Flores at alz.org/co alz.org/walk, email at asflores@alz.org, or by calling 970- 387- 6121. You can contact Kelly Osthoff at alz.org/co, email at keosthoff@alz.org, or by calling 970.387.6120.
Please join the Logan County Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Alzheimer’s Association as this week’s Business of the Week and for their efforts in tying our community together!