BUFFALO — With the region slowly emerging from the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York is reteurning to in-person engagement.

Local staff will return to the office at 6215 Sheridan Drive, Suite 100 in Williamsville on Monday, Aug. 2. The public is welcome to enter the office for care consultations, to retrieve informational materials, to drop off donations and more. The chapter is following all cleaning/disinfecting protocols advised by local health authorities, and those who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 are asked to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines.

Staff with the Western New York chapter are also working with community volunteers to provide both in-person and virtual schedules for education classes, support groups, respite programs and other free services. Information about classes can be found at alz.org/WNY or by calling the Williamsville office at 716-626-0600, ext. 313, to request a copy of the chapter’s printed program guide.

Planning is also underway to resume in-person gatherings for the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

“We are so excited to bring this powerful event back to our supporters in a way that celebrates their efforts and honors those we’ve lost to this terrible disease” said Lauren Klenosky, chapter walk manager. “We’re working with volunteer committees who are helping us not only plan this impactful event, but ensure we are following health guidelines and best practices to make everyone who attends feel welcome, safe and inspired.”

The fundraiser supports the free programs and services offered by the Chapter and will take place in six local communities across the region:

¯ Buffalo — Saturday, Sept. 18, Outer Harbor

¯ Genesee/Wyoming counties — Saturday, Sept. 25, Dwyer Stadium, Batavia

¯ Chautauqua County — Saturday, Sept. 25, Point Gratiot Park, Dunkirk

¯ Niagara County — Saturday, Oct. 2, Artpark, Lewiston

¯ Southern Tier — Saturday, Oct. 2, Firemen’s Park, Allegany

¯ Orleans County — Saturday, Oct. 9, State Street Park, Medina

The event is free to attend, but fundraising by participants helps the chapter continue to provide resources for all impacted by cognitive impairment across Western New York.

For more information and required registration, visit alz.org/WNYwalk. A limited number of corporate sponsorship slots are also available at various support levels. For more information, call Lynn Westcott, corporate relations director, at 716-241-0357.