The Gardens on Tenth is inviting residents and community members to come together June 17 for the annual Walk for Alzheimer’s, an event aimed at raising awareness, supporting families affected by dementia, and strengthening community connections.
Hosted in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, the walk will take place on June 17 from 10-11:30 a.m. and is open to people of all ages.
For Carissa Kiansky, life enrichment coordinator at The Gardens, the event represents much more than a fundraiser.
“The Alzheimer’s walk is a very meaningful event for The Gardens on Tenth,” she said. “It brings our residents, families, staff and community together to support an important cause that touches many lives.”
Kiansky noted the walk offers residents an opportunity to connect with others, share memories, support one another and raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
“It also creates a strong sense of community and reminds everyone that no one has to face this journey alone,” she said.
The need for awareness remains significant, particularly in smaller communities where families often rely heavily on local support networks.
“Raising awareness helps people better understand Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and the challenges families face every day,” Kiansky explained. “Awareness encourages compassion, reduces stigma and helps families know where they can find support and resources.”
She added that community conversations can lead to earlier diagnoses, improved care and stronger support systems for those affected by dementia.
Funds raised through events such as the walk also help support research, education and programs offered through the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
“Continued fundraising helps provide resources, counselling, education and community programming while supporting ongoing research toward better treatments and, hopefully one day, a cure,” said Kiansky.
Participants can expect a welcoming and family-friendly event. The morning will include a brief program, the walk itself, and opportunities to connect with others before gathering for a hot dog lunch sponsored by Co-op.
Kiansky said partnerships play a key role in making the event successful.
“Partnering with the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba brings valuable knowledge, resources and support,” she said. “Their involvement helps educate the community about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia while also connecting families with important programs and services.”
The Gardens on Tenth also works to support families throughout the year by hosting a monthly Alzheimer’s caregiver support group led by Rebecca Atkinson, South Central Regional Coordinator for the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
The group provides education, resources and a supportive environment for caregivers and family members navigating the challenges of dementia.
Kiansky said staff at The Gardens regularly witness the impact Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can have on both individuals and their loved ones.
“It can be a very difficult journey, not only for the person living with dementia but also for loved ones and caregivers,” she said. “Many families experience changes in communication, memory and daily life routines.”
For anyone considering attending the walk for the first time, Kiansky hopes they will simply come and experience the sense of support the event provides.
“Whether you have been personally affected by Alzheimer’s disease or simply want to support an important cause, everyone is welcome,” she said. “By attending, you are helping raise awareness, showing support to families and helping create a more compassionate community.”
She added that even small acts of support can make a meaningful difference.
“It is a meaningful event, and even small acts of support can make a big difference.”
