Shining Bright: The Impact of Volunteers in Florida’s Communities

North and Central Florida Chapter

The Alzheimer’s Association is proud to acknowledge and thank our many dedicated volunteers during National Volunteer Week. Volunteers play a key role in the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Their selfless commitment and unwavering dedication have impacted the lives of millions of families across the country.

Thank you to these volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their efforts. Learn more about volunteering at alz.org/volunteer.

Jessica Gordon is a full-mission volunteer serving on the committee for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Ocala. While striving to increase engagement within the African-American community, Jessica collaborates with local church leaders in hopes of spreading awareness and creating partnerships to support the mission of the association. Her commitment to understanding the needs of her community members is unwavering as she aims to establish connections and foster relationships that help bring the Alzheimer’s Association work to those who require it most.

Sheri Humayun is a community educator in Central Florida, reaching more than 300 people to date through her programs. Sheri’s dedication to educating people about the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and supporting caregivers is inspiring. She demonstrates a proactive approach by actively seeking out webinars and resources to enhance her knowledge and expand the range of programs she offers. During events, she goes above and beyond to connect with attendees, assisting them in navigating and accessing our resources. Sheri’s commitment to education is evident through her numerous virtual and in-person presentations across multiple counties.

Becky Harkness has served as the event experience chair for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Jacksonville for two years and has served as a volunteer for the Association for more than six years. Becky is an active member of the community, consistently promoting the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, recruiting teams and seeking sponsorships. She approaches her role with dedication, consistently seeking opportunities to improve and enhance our Walk from year to year.

Margarita Larrea-Berg is an avid volunteer on the engagement committee for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Orlando. Margarita is always the first to offer assistance with any task, regardless of its complexity or urgency. She excels at making phone calls and has cultivated strong relationships with many of the event’s top supporters. Margarita is always willing to lend a hand in other capacities, whether it’s recruiting at a table event, staffing the registration desk at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s or helping with event setup. Margarita’s commitment to helping others is remarkable.

Beau Herman is the owner of Assisted Living Locators in Orlando and has encountered the devastating effects of the disease first-hand. As the community engagement chair for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Orlando, Beau has exceptional networking capabilities. He has been instrumental in expanding the Association’s presence in Central Florida through Walk teams and sponsorship growth. Thanks to his introductions, Orlando’s Walk boasts 105 teams to date, a significant increase from previous years.

Leigh Sharpe is an avid Walk to End Alzheimer’s Pensacola volunteer and supporter. Leigh has been an invaluable asset to the Association and we are grateful for her and her family’s generous volunteer work. Her strong work ethic and dedication to the mission has made a meaningful impact in her community.

Leave a Reply