Working to end Alzheimer’s

Supporting patients and caregivers alike

More than six million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Each year, more people die from dementia than from breast and prostate cancer combined. And it’s not just those with the disease who are affected. It also places a substantial burden on loved ones, caregivers and the nation’s health care system. Currently, more than 11 million people are providing unpaid care to those suffering from the disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association has three main objectives: to eliminate Alzheimer’s and all other dementia through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

Global action, local impact

Founded in 1980, The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. The association’s Vermont Chapter exists to support the roughly 13,000 people in the state with the disease, along with the more than 26,000 friends and family members who care for them. It provides training, education, and in-person support groups, and advocates for the needs and rights of those facing a form of dementia.

“Alzheimer’s affects not only the person suffering from the disease, but their loved ones as well,” said Patrick Cahoon, associate vice president at NFP. “Along with funding research for a cure, the nonprofit’s caregiver support network helps ease the burden felt by families and loved ones.”

“Along with funding research for a cure, the nonprofit’s caregiver support network helps ease the burden felt by families and loved ones.”

– Patrick Cahoon, Associate Vice President, NFP

A personal connection

NFP has a deeply personal reason for supporting the Alzheimer’s Association, Vermont Chapter. Former agency principal and owner Nancy Poulos watched her mother regress from a vibrant, loving and caring woman to a confused, dependent and almost childlike individual during her 10-year battle with the disease. Each stage brought its own set of challenges and heartache.

After her Mom’s death in 2017, Nancy joined the planning committee for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in her area. In 2018, she became chairperson of the committee, a position she continues to hold. During that time, she and others at NFP came to realize that many agency employees and clients and their families were also affected by this horrible disease, which made them want to do even more to help.

Along with volunteering on the day of the walk and fundraising for it, NFP encourages its agency members to host other events to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. These events include selling handmade crafts and jewelry, hosting fundraising dances, throwing a cornhole tournament and other activities. Everything they raise from these efforts goes to support the nonprofit and its mission.

“The steady support from NFP is so inspiring,” said Howard Goodrow, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Vermont chapter. “Working together, I’m optimistic we’ll achieve our goal of discovering better treatment, and eventually, a cure.”

“Working together, I’m optimistic we’ll discover better treatment, and eventually, a cure.”

– Howard Goodrow, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association, Vermont Chapter

Join the fight against Alzheimer’s

Help NFP win $10,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association, Vermont Chapter by clicking the vote button. Get them an extra vote by leaving a comment below by August 31, 2023.