Nearly 15% of adults age 65 and over in Palm Beach County are living with Alzheimer’s. Hunter’s Run Country Club held Step Up to Wellness to raise awareness and funds for local care and support programs through the Alzheimer’s Association Southeast Florida Chapter. The event raised more than $19,000 that will allow the local chapter to provide support services to families navigating the disease, educational programming, research and more.
“We have many members who have been affected by this disease,” said Heidi Rubin, resident and Step Up to Wellness volunteer event coordinator. “This event began in 2019 as a means to promote health and wellness education to the members of Hunters Run. At that time, we decided to include a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association. I wanted to support the efforts to raise awareness and support a cure. Over the past 3 years, our fundraising efforts raised $6000 each year. I am proud that this year we doubled that amount due to the efforts of my committee and their dedication.”
Alzheimer’s has become an epidemic in Florida, with 1 in 37 residents living with the disease. As the state continues to grow with a predominantly 65+ population, events like those in Hunter’s Run will be critical to providing support services for Floridians.
“It never ceases to amaze me how our membership rises to the occasion when called upon,” said Larry Savvides, chief operating officer at Hunters Run. “Alzheimer’s awareness and research is of paramount importance to all of us. I am elated that we were able to help this incredibly worthwhile charity.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are currently battling Alzheimer’s disease. Florida has the second-highest prevalence of the disease in the nation with more than 580,000 diagnosed residents. By 2025, that number is projected to reach 720,000.
Learn more about The Longest Day at alz.org.
