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Alzheimer Society exceeds goal of raising more than $1.25 million
Coffee Break event helps make a difference
February 5, 2008 – The Alzheimer Society is pleased to announce it raised more than $1,277,100 during the 12th annual Coffee Break™ fundraiser in 2007, surpassing its goal of $1.25 million.
The grass roots event united people across the country in their efforts to help fund critical programs and services for the half a million Canadians living with Alzheimer's or a related disease. It was also a chance for participants to engage in healthy brain behaviour by socializing with their community, friends and family.
Coffee Break is the Alzheimer Society's nationwide fundraiser, held every September in thousands of communities across the country. The money raised helps chapters run and facilitate programs for people with Alzheimer's disease, their caregivers and their families.
"Without the generous support from the Canadian public and from our corporate sponsors, Coffee Break would not be the success that it is today," says Scott Dudgeon, chief executive officer of the Alzheimer Society of Canada. "Every year we are continually impressed by the generosity Canadians show in support of our vital programs and services for the many people with Alzheimer's or a related disease."
The Society thanks Joey's Only Seafood Restaurants, Pfizer Canada Inc. and Creative Memories for their ongoing support as sponsors for the annual event. Also, central to the event are the gifts-in-kind provided by Sara Lee Corporation.
"We are especially grateful for the efforts of retailers, who promoted the coffee break events in their stores or restaurants, encouraging their customers to donate to the Alzheimer Society," says Dudgeon. One such retailer, Bulk Barn, alone brought in over $155,000.00.
About Alzheimer Coffee Break
Alzheimer Coffee Break is the Alzheimer Society's nationwide fundraiser. Participants at locations across Canada make a donation in exchange for a cup of coffee, or the purchase of a coffee cup cut-out. Coffee breaks are unique to each location, and can take place anywhere. The 13th annual Alzheimer Coffee Break will kick off Thursday, September 18, 2008. If you would like more information about the event or to host a coffee break, please call
1-888-815-6829 or click here.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative brain disorder that destroys vital brain cells. Alzheimer's and related diseases affect an estimated 1 in 13 Canadians over the age of 65, or approximately half a million people. It is estimated that 750,000 Canadians will have Alzheimer's or a related disease by the year 2031 if a cure is not found.
The Alzheimer Society is a nationwide, not-for-profit health organization dedicated to helping people affected by Alzheimer's disease. The Society develops and provides support and educational programs for people with the disease, their families and their caregivers. The Society is also a leading funder of Alzheimer research and training in Canada.
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