The Chautauqua County Walk to End Alzheimer’s exceeded its goal for 2023, raising $43,804, nearly 10% more than its goal of $40,000.

The walk took place Sept. 23 at Point Gratiot Park in Dunkirk, but fundraising continued until Dec. 31.

“As chair of the Chautauqua County Walk to End Alzheimer’s, I am thrilled with the success we saw this past year,” said Dana Corwin, deputy director of the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services. “More than 420 people attended our fun and meaningful event, and we raised an unprecedented amount thanks to our hardworking committee members and very generous Chautauqua County community! It was a beautiful day all around.”

Lynn Westcott, senior director of development for the Alzheimer’s Association Western New York Chapter, acknowledged the increase in support.

“We are extraordinarily grateful for the dedication and hard work of the Chautauqua County committee and the continued, generous support from the community.”

Westcott added that the funds raised through the Walk to End Alzheimer’s ensure that the programs and services the Alzheimer’s Association provides in Chautauqua County remain free to those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, along with their caregivers. In addition, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s funds critical research and advocacy efforts which have resulted in new treatments for people living in the early stage.

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, including 410,000 in New York State, with 546,000 individuals in New York serving as unpaid caregivers for those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

The six Walks to End Alzheimer’s held throughout Western New York raised nearly $850,000 in 2023, and were supported by Presenting Sponsor, Uniland. Chautauqua County sponsors included Nestle Purina, Aftercare Nursing Services, Living Legends Chautauqua, Silvertree Seniors and The Chautauqua Center.

To get involved with the 2024 Chautauqua County Walk to End Alzheimer’s, contact Westcott at lwestcott@alz.org or 716-440-4251.