We are pleased to announce the Foundation’s second major contribution of $13,872 to Alzheimer Society of Calgary.

Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is one of the most significant social and health crises of the 21st century. These are fatal, degenerative brain diseases affecting 10% of Calgary seniors and that number is expected to double in the next 20 years. There is no known cause or cure. For every person with the disease, another 10-12 are directly impacted, often providing care and support as the condition progresses. Half of people diagnosed live at home and 97% have a family member who takes on responsibility for their care. Without vital action, families will be overwhelmed. Access to (and availability of) key resources such as education and support is a chief topic of concern.

The Alzheimer Society of Calgary is a leader in the provision of high quality, evidence-based programming for people impacted by dementia in Calgary and area in the areas of education, support and care. The funding that ARTA, through its Charitable Foundation, has provided has been earmarked for Learning & Support Services educational programs, including:

  • Dementia education for the public: 6 free-of-charge educational sessions held by local dementia experts which aim to increase understanding of dementia, reduce stigma and create connections to other resources.
  • Barrier-free access to education: Custom education sessions and multi-language resource materials for diverse communities and low-income seniors (distributed online, in print and via community partners).
  • Caregiver Strategies, a monthly program, and Considering Care Options, held three times a year, to increase dementia care knowledge for caregivers; skill-building; alleviating stress; providing guidance through transitions and encouraging the development of informal support networks.

The cheque was presented by Brian Scott, Chair of the Alberta Retired Teachers Charitable Foundation, Gordon Cumming, Director of the Teachers Charitable Foundation, and Pamela Moysa, the Foundation Administrator to Jill Petrovic, Director, Philanthropy, of Alzheimer Society Calgary at the Calgary Retired Teachers’ Association’s annual Steppin’ Out Conference on  April 27, 2018.