National Volunteer Month: Celebrating Our Volunteers in Florida Gulf Coast

During National Volunteer Month this April, the Alzheimer’s Association is proud to highlight inspiring stories and contributions from young volunteers in Florida Gulf Coast making a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.

What does each of these dedicated volunteers have in common? They’re all passionate about ending Alzheimer’s while ensuring those impacted have the information and support they need. Join us in celebrating our big-hearted volunteers during National Volunteer Month.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities at alz.org/volunteer.


Louise Gallagher

Louise Gallagher is a dedicated community educator who leads with compassion, warmth and a deep commitment to supporting others. She is passionate about helping individuals and families understand brain health and access the resources they need. Inspired by the loss of her sister and her mother’s journey with dementia, Louise continues to turn personal experience into meaningful action across her community.


Helayne Celano

Helayne Celano is a passionate advocate and community connector who works tirelessly to expand awareness and engagement. From local outreach to advocacy efforts in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., she helps ensure families have access to critical resources and support. As a caregiver to her husband living with early-stage dementia, Helayne brings both strength and purpose to everything she does.


Kristie Wallace

Kristie Wallace uses her voice and platform to educate, engage and inspire others in the fight against Alzheimer’s. As a community educator and volunteer, she connects with audiences through presentations, outreach and media engagement. Her passion is fueled by both her professional experience as a pharmacist and the personal loss of her aunt, driving her commitment to support families navigating the disease.


Kelli Davis

Kelli Davis is a dedicated leader and fundraiser who has made a lasting impact through her work with the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Pasco County community engagement committee. As the leader of Team Cookie Crumbles, she has helped raise significant funds to support care, support and research. After losing her mother to Alzheimer’s, Kelli continues to turn her experience into purpose—uplifting families and inspiring others to get involved.


Tina Spinks

Tina Spinks serves as community engagement chair for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Tampa, bringing passion, intention and leadership to her work. She plays a key role in outreach and partnership-building, helping expand the mission’s reach throughout her community. Driven by personal experiences with her family, Tina remains deeply committed to supporting others and advancing awareness.


Hank and Carole Starks

Hank and Carole Starks are powerful advocates who have turned their personal journey into meaningful action. With Carole living with Alzheimer’s, they share their story to raise awareness and push for change at both the local and national level. Through meetings with lawmakers and participation in advocacy events, they continue to champion increased research, early detection and improved care for families affected by the disease.


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