Alzheimer’s Association asks Miami Lakes to support November 15 walk and week of awareness

Volunteers and staff from the Alzheimer’s Association presented to the Miami Lakes Town Council on July 26 and requested the town’s support for their annual fundraising and awareness walk and for a weeklong local proclamation promoting awareness and resources.

Volunteer advocate Joey Kennon and Maylene (Mila) Espino of the Alzheimer’s Association described the disease’s prevalence in Florida and Miami‑Dade County and highlighted the association’s caregiver support and educational programs. Espino said Miami‑Dade County has among the highest prevalence rates in the state and the association’s materials and helpline provide support for caregivers and patients.

The association asked the town to: - Help raise awareness and create teams to participate in the Alzheimer’s Association walk on Nov. 15 at LoanDepot Park (Marlins Park). - Consider a proclamation for a week of awareness Sept. 21–27 and to ‘‘paint the town purple’’ during that week to raise visibility. - Allow the association to deliver outreach and educational presentations to town departments and the public, including virtual and in‑person options.

Why it matters: Council members and staff welcomed the request. Speakers noted the town could help raise funds and awareness at the local level, and the volunteer said the organization provides a 24/7 helpline and translator services for caregivers seeking information or support.

Next steps: Presenters left contact materials and a folder for distribution to council and staff. The mayor and council asked staff to accept the folder through the town clerk and to coordinate with the association on next steps for a proclamation and departmental briefings.