Staff
With this year’s “Ride for Memories” just over two weeks away, organizers are hoping more riders from the Fort Frances area will join in the Aug. 24 event.
Hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Kenora/Rainy River Districts, the event—now in its 11th year—is one of the largest charity motorcycle rides in the area.
But Nikki Spencer, the Alzheimer Society’s office and event co-ordinator, noted there hasn’t been a lot of interest from Fort Frances yet.
“We’ve only had a little bit,” she remarked, noting the most interest so far has been in Dryden, which will host the dinner this year.
Spencer stressed the event typically is of interest to those who enjoy riding motorcycles, but added there are many ways for people to take part in the “Ride for Memories.”
“They can attend the steak dinner [in Dryden] for $20,” she noted. “And they can sponsor those riding or get pledges themselves to be there.”
In addition, Spencer said local residents can stop by the lunch, which is being held at the Fort Frances Legion this year
The ride will be starting in three locations—Dryden, Kenora, and Fort Frances.
Riders in Fort Frances will sign in between 8:30-9:30 a.m., when they’ll travel to Nestor Falls to meet up with riders from Kenora and then head back to Fort Frances for lunch.
Alternately, local riders also can register after lunch and ride out of town with the rest of the group heading to Dryden for supper.
Besides dinner in Dryden, there also will be an awards ceremony and plenty of great prizes up for grabs.
“The more people we have, the better,” Spencer stressed. “It’s all about awareness.”
“This is one of our most important fundraising events at the Alzheimer Society,” said acting executive director Rossana Tomashowski.
“This year’s goal is to raise $50,000 to help support over 1,071 people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in the Kenora and Rainy River Districts,” she noted, adding the demand for services is climbing steadily as the number of Canadians with dementia surges.
It is estimated 1.3 million Canadians will be affected by 2038.
“There’s already a great need for services in Kenora and Rainy River Districts but these numbers will intensify the demand,” Tomashowski warned.
“Fundraisers like ‘Ride for Memories’ fund real, tangible, hands-on services that help our clients.”
She also stressed every dollar raised through their fundraising initiatives stays in the district.
“For many, the Alzheimer Society is their lifeline,” Tomashowski said. “The Alzheimer Society provides families and individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease education and support.
“The Society works to ensure people have access and knowledge to community support services,” she added.
To register for the “Ride for Memories,” visit www.alzheimerkrr.com or call toll-free 1-800-682-0245 to get your registration package.
People also can donate online or call the regional office if they have any questions.
