As I mentioned in the last For Impact Friday post, this is
something I am giving a go at in the interest of expanding my understanding of
501c3 companies and my internship with Public Allies, Arizona. In the first
posting I also mentioned that my time with Public Allies is a short span, a
mere ten months. Yes, not even a year to attempt to understand such an
important part of community. This is not a classroom based experience though, and
I always learn much more hands on. While we do spend a fair amount of hours,
Fridays mostly, in lectures to better understand the business end of
non-profit, the remainder of my nine-to-five weekdays are on those front lines.
So, what is my troop?
The Alzheimer’s Association: Desert Southwest Chapter serves
to bring help and hope to individuals and families dealing with Alzheimer’s
disease and dementia. It was not until I found myself with this amazing
organization that I realized how much Alzheimer’s already touched my life.
One in six people over 65, in the United States are
diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or related dementia! One in six! After age 85 that
increases to 50%. There is no cure. There is no way to vaccinate against it.
There is research and hope, but there needs to be more serious focus and
awareness from the government.
Heard of the Baby Boom generation? Yes, they are an enormous
population and they are about to fall right into this health risk! What is the
nation doing to prepare? Not enough. What can you do?
You can start by contacting the Alzheimer’s Association
chapter in your area and requesting information about this terrible
degenerative disease. You can offer to be a volunteer educator, and learn how
to present the facts to your community. You can train as a facilitator for
local support groups. Educate yourself too; how can you protect your brain
health, what factors might put you at greater risk?
Most important, make others aware now that you are. Thank
you!
Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter
1028 East McDowell Avenue, Phoenix
www.alz.org/dsw
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