The Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter is inviting families to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by taking part in one of four Walk to End Alzheimer’s scheduled across the state this Fall.

The first of the walks is Sept. 18 at Block Island, Fred Benson Beach followed by Sept. 24 in Westerly at  Misquamicut State Beach; Sept.  25th in  Newport at Fort Adams State Park and Oct. 22 in Providence at Roger Williams State Park.

Held nationally in more than 600 communities across the country, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s and all other dementia with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease.

“We are so excited for this Walk to End Alzheimer’s season. The Walk is a wonderful event where people see that they are not alone in dealing with this challenging disease,” said Donna M. McGowan, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter. “The Walk allows us to provide resources and make connections that will help us help more families in this state as well as advance critical research towards new treatments and ways to prevent this disease.”

In 2021, 2,400 participants and 324 teams joined in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, raising $649,000 towards research and care and support programs for people living with Alzheimer’s, their families, and caregivers. This year, Walks in Rhode Island hope to raise $670,000.

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Rhode Island alone, there are more than 24,000 people living with the disease and 39,000 caregivers.

Participants can choose to start a team, join a team or walk as an individual during the annual fundraiser. Day-of registration for three of the walks is at 8:30 am. The Promise Garden ceremony begins at 10 am followed by the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Registration for the Block Island Walk is set for 10 am, with the ceremony starting at 11 am. To register for any of the walks online and receive the latest updates, visit alz.org/ri/walk.