Because of recommendations from the Public Health Agency of Canada many organizations have had to cancel or postpone their fundraising efforts.
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. has decided to perhaps try an alternative to their major fundraiser that was to be held May 3 in Prince George and other communities in the province.
"Our first priority is the safety of our participants, staff, volunteers and their family and friends," Cathryn France, the Alzheimer Society of B.C.'s director of resource development, said.
"The IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's is our biggest fundraising event of the year and the funds raised allow us to provide critical programs and services. We are committed to coming together and having this event go ahead in a different way, perhaps virtually. Please stay tuned for more information, but keep May 3 free in your calendar."
The event offers people the opportunity to remember and celebrate people in their lives who have been affected by dementia, while raising funds to support people living with the disease today and to enable research into the causes and cure for the disease.
"We are so grateful to the generosity and support of all of our volunteers, participants, sponsors and donors who have contributed to this event so far," France said. "Due to your tireless energy and contributions, together, we make a real difference to people in our province affected by dementia."
More information about the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer's and how you can attend will be available within the coming weeks. Even though it will look different, the event will undoubtedly remain a chance to honour and celebrate people affected by dementia.
The Society's First Link dementia support activities provide support and education for people who are affected by dementia - and it will be crucially important for British Columbian families affected by dementia to feel connected and supported in the coming days.
While the in-person programs and services have been postponed, the society is increasing its phone outreach via support calls and has extended the hours of its First Link Dementia Helpline which, effective immediately and permanently, will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. to provide evening service in English. The Mandarin, Cantonese and Punjabi support will continue to be available between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
English: 1-800-936-6033, Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007, Punjabi: 1-833-674-5003
Visit the Society's website (www.alzheimerbc.org) for more information about dementia, including information about upcoming webinars, newsletters and emails.
