Alzheimer's Association issues plea for local volunteers

Marion Star
·2 min read

COLUMBUS — The Alzheimer’s Association is seeking volunteers for initiatives across Central Ohio, including community education, support groups, fundraisers, advocacy and Walks to End Alzheimer’s. The chapter serves 19 counties, including Marion.

“Millions of Americans are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease, which is a public health crisis with no current cure. The good news is, you can do something to help by becoming an Association volunteer,” according to Vince McGrail, executive director of the Alzheimer's Association Central Ohio and Northwest Ohio chapters. “Our ability to reach and support those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia depends on people in our communities who are dedicated to the fight against this disease.”

The Alzheimer’s Association relies greatly on the contribution of its volunteers. As a volunteer, you can use your unique talents to make a meaningful impact in your community, while connecting with others who share your passion.

The Alzheimer's Association Central Ohio Chapter serves 19 counties: Marion, Morrow, Union, Delaware, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Fayette, Pickaway, Fairfield, Hocking, Athens, Meigs, Perry, Morgan, Washington, Muskingum, Noble and Monroe.
The Alzheimer's Association Central Ohio Chapter serves 19 counties: Marion, Morrow, Union, Delaware, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Fayette, Pickaway, Fairfield, Hocking, Athens, Meigs, Perry, Morgan, Washington, Muskingum, Noble and Monroe.

Opportunities to volunteer

  • Members of the chapter Board of Directors

  • Committee members for fundraisers including Walk to End Alzheimer’s and The Longest Day

  • Walk team members and Walk team captains

  • Community educators

  • Support group facilitators

  • State advocates

  • Event volunteers

  • Fundraisers

  • Community representatives

“We are grateful for every person who dedicates their time as an advocate or volunteer,” said Pam Myers, senior director, programs for the Central Ohio and Northwest Ohio chapters. “We are lifted by the strength of the community that surrounds us, and we truly couldn’t achieve our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s without our volunteers. Every dollar we raise through our fundraising events directly supports the Association’s free educational programs and support groups, Alzheimer’s care services and advancements in treatment and research.”

Volunteers are especially needed to support the Marion, Delaware, Zanesville, Athens and Circleville Walks to End Alzheimer’s.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit alz.org/centralohio, fill out a volunteer interest form or call the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter at 614-457-6003.

Nationwide, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's or another dementia. In Ohio, there are 236,200 individuals aged 65 and over living with the disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report. A total of 414,000 family caregivers provide 624 million hours of unpaid care each year in Ohio, valued at more than $11.4 billion.

Those concerned about themselves or a loved one can contact the Alzheimer's Association Central Ohio Chapter at 614-457-6003 to schedule a care consultation and be connected to local resources. The Alzheimer's Association Helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year to those needing information, guidance or support at 800-272-3900.

This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Alzheimer's Association seeks volunteers in Central Ohio