The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County is thrilled to announce the incredible outcome of their inaugural Oma's Ride! Held under sunny skies on September 29th, 2024, the event brought together 100 cyclists of all ages and has raised over $54,000.
Participants included an inspiring 11 year old and a remarkable 93 year old. Some supporters who could not attend in person rode virtually to raise funds on their own.
“Our Society is so grateful for the incredible response to Oma’s Ride,” says Ann-Marie Kungl, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County.
“All who joined experienced a gorgeous sunny day, cheering on cyclists, and an afternoon in the gardens at Quayle’s Brewery enjoying a tasty lunch. They also had the opportunity to mingle with the Barrie Public Art Club plein air artists, the Barrie Colts Charlie Horse, and get their caricature done by the lovely Linda Laforge.”
A Very Worthy Cause
All of the money raised through Oma’s Ride stays in the local community.
The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County has earmarked these funds for creating more access to social recreation programming like art, music, and movement activities for people living with dementia and their care partners.
The event donation link will remain active until October 31. Anyone can donate and help the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County to achieve their goal of raising $60,000.
Donations can be made online or by calling the main Barrie office at (705) 722-1066 ext. 221.
Personal Connection
Oma’s Ride has a very personal connection to Ann-Marie. It was organized as a tribute to her Oma who lived with dementia.
The idea was made possible through two key community partners: the Barrie Colts Foundation and Catherine Pearson and her team at Quayle’s Brewery. These two strong partners helped to ensure that Oma’s Ride was a success.
Ann-Marie adds, “Safety is key to any road event and ensuring all have a great experience. We are so thankful for Ian Gordan, his moto safety team, Rowena and the OPP team, the Crank and Sprocket Bicycle Co. tech team, and Simcoe County paramedics. These partners collectively supported a phenomenal on-road experience for riders and we are grateful for their involvement.”
“On a more personal note, I would like to thank all the sponsors, friends of the society, the Kungl, Longworth and Baker families, volunteers, donors, my amazing staff team and Board and broad community supporters. There are no words to express my deep gratitude for making this idea a reality, and a very successful one at that! We continue to hear glowing feedback and are excited to do this event again in 2025!” says Ann-Marie.
Looking Ahead to the Next Oma’s Ride
The plans are already in the works for the 2nd annual Oma’s Ride. Details and dates will be coming soon. The organization is currently looking for a title sponsor.
In the meantime, community members can support The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County at their upcoming Bowling for Brain Health event in January as well as their annual Walk for Memories on Sunday, May 25.
You can learn more about how the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County supports local individuals living with dementia as well as their care partners by visiting them online, emailing [email protected], or calling (705) 722-1066 ext. 221.