AOS & Friends Care will hold its 11th Annual Mums for Memory fundraiser this fall to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia while supporting individuals and families affected by the condition.
According to the organization, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to nearly double by 2050. AOS & Friends Care provides free support, resources and services to people living with dementia and their caregivers throughout Moore County and surrounding communities.
The nonprofit was founded by Amy Natt and John Barrett. The organization’s mission was inspired by Barrett’s wife, Mary Anne, whose Alzheimer’s diagnosis reinforced her commitment to helping others.
The annual fundraiser offers community members an opportunity to honor or remember loved ones affected by dementia while supporting local services. A $30 donation includes a purple mum, the Alzheimer’s awareness flower, which may be dedicated in honor or memory of someone special. Dedications will be recognized in the event program and on the organization’s Memory Wall.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 7 million Americans and roughly 57 million people worldwide live with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Alzheimer’s accounts for 60% to 70% of all worldwide dementia cases.
All donated mums will be delivered to local care facilities. Supporters may also sponsor mum deliveries in honor of seniors living with dementia and the caregivers who assist them.
The drive-through fundraiser will be held Thursday, Oct. 8, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Aging Outreach Services, 676 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines.
Donations must be received by Monday, Sept. 28, to dedicate a mum. Purple mums may be picked up during the Oct. 8 drive-through event.
Additional information, sponsorship opportunities and donations are available at aosfcare.org/mums-for-memory.
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