By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA –Hundreds of motorcycle riders will rev up for a cause on June 27 as they take part in the 10th annual Rides4ALZ, a fundraising ride benefiting Alzheimer’s San Diego.
The event brings together the local riding community to raise awareness and support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Participants will depart at 8 a.m. and ride an approximately 94-mile route starting at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido and ending at Kit Carson Park, all to help raise $250,000 in support of the people and families in San Diego County living with dementia.
Funds raised through Rides4ALZ help keep Alzheimer’s San Diego’s education classes, support groups, social activities, and other dementia-specific programs 100 percent free for local individuals and families, ensuring those experiencing cognitive decline receive dignity, connection, and support throughout their memory loss journey.
“Our annual Rides4ALZ is much more than a motorcycle ride and fundraising event. It is a powerful demonstration of what community looks like when we come together to support families in need that are facing the overwhelming challenges of memory loss,” says Eugenia L. Welch, president and CEO of Alzheimer’s San Diego. “As we celebrate 10 years of this event and our organization, we are incredibly grateful to the riders, supporters and families who continue to stand beside us and help ensure San Diegans living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias feel seen, supported and never alone.”
With an estimated 102,000 San Diegans living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, and nearly 300,000 unpaid family caregivers providing support, the need for accessible local resources continues to grow. Alzheimer’s San Diego provides free programs, services and memory screenings to ensure individuals and families have somewhere to turn at every stage of their journey with dementia. These programs remain free thanks to ongoing community support and fundraising events like Rides4ALZ.
Last year, about 200 riders came together in support of Alzheimer’s San Diego, raising more than $115,000 for its various free programs and services. Since its inception, Rides4ALZ has grown into a beloved community tradition, uniting not only families experiencing forms of dementia, but also motorcycle enthusiasts interested in coming together to support a shared mission and raise awareness of the impacts of memory loss.
“Rides4ALZ started with a simple idea, to combine my passion for motorcycling with a deeply personal commitment to supporting families affected by Alzheimer’s disease,” says founding organizer Scott Drury, and Alzheimer’s San Diego board chair. “My mother’s diagnosis showed me firsthand how important it is to have strong community support, and I’ve learned as a caregiver that every day brings both challenges and moments to cherish. This ride is about bringing people together, honoring those affected, and ensuring that every dollar raised stays right here in San Diego County to support neighbors helping neighbors.”
Participants will conclude their ride at the park, where a community after-party will bring together riders, families and supporters to celebrate the conclusion of this year’s Rides4ALZ fundraiser.
The event is open to both riders and non-riders and will feature tacos, live music by the Harmony Grove Band and family-friendly activities. Children and dogs are welcome.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase drawing tickets for a chance to win prizes, including an electric bicycle, a wine-tasting experience, tickets to sporting events and other giveaways.
This year’s Rides4ALZ is sponsored by title sponsor Icon Utility Services and military sponsor Jingoli Power. Through Jingoli Power’s support, the first 100 active-duty service members and military veterans can register to ride free by using the promo code MILITARY.
Community members interested in sponsoring the event or hosting a vendor table at the after-party are encouraged to contact Rides4ALZ@alzsd.org.
Anyone with questions about memory loss or who is in need of support is welcome to contact Alzheimer’s San Diego at (858) 492-4400 or visit alzsd.org.
