Teams are well into their fundraising activities for the 12th annual Hot Springs Alzheimer's Walk scheduled for Oct. 4 in Downtown Hot Springs. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The walk will begin at 10 a.m. at the Exchange Street Parking Plaza, then continue along Bathhouse Row, cross to the merchants' side of Central Avenue, ending back at the Exchange Street Parking Plaza for the Awards Ceremony at 11 a.m.
This new venue is a change for the walk, which has traditionally been held at Garvan Woodland Gardens. "We decided to move the walk downtown this year to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Alzheimer's Arkansas and to enjoy the vitality of downtown Hot Springs," said Billie Holsomback, 2014 event chair. "We wanted to involve all the merchants from the downtown area and they have been great to lend their support."
Suzanne Tucker, owner of Historic District Antiques, is the honorary chairperson for the 2014 walk. "Over the past 11 years, the Hot Springs community has shown tremendous support for the Hot Springs Alzheimer's Arkansas Walk, and for that we are truly grateful," said Tucker. "This year, we are planning an even bigger and better event."
Snacks will be served at the Exchange Street Plaza before the walk, so be sure to get there early and have a team photo made. "We are very grateful to have professional photographer Jennifer Cockrell taking photos again this year," said long time committee member Dena Coleman. "She has been with us for all 12 years."
Teams are made up of as few as two people and the three categories for teams are family, community and business. Prizes are given for the largest team and top fundraiser in each of the three categories. Grand prizes are given to the top three individual largest fundraisers. Team recognition awards, sponsor plaques and door prizes will all be distributed during the closing ceremony. If unable to join in the walk, just come out for the fellowship and food. You don't have to be part of a team to walk and it is free to participate.
Pre-registration is encouraged by calling Alzheimer's Arkansas, 800-689-6090, or contacting a committee member. Sponsorships are available, with recognition available on the T-shirts and in the walk publicity. Proceeds help fund educational programs and family services provided by Alzheimer's Arkansas. All family services are free of charge. The funds are used to purchase supplies and services to aid caregivers and individuals, such as respite care, adult day care, residential care facilities, home care supplies and legal services. All monies raised remain in Arkansas to serve Arkansans.
For more information, call Alzheimer's Arkansas.
Society on 08/24/2014