The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County is hosting their first Oma’s Ride on Sunday, September 29. The event is set to be great fun for an incredibly important cause.
“As a complement to our annual May Walk for Alzheimer’s, this new fundraiser brings together community and is an opportunity to raise dollars for our high demand social recreation programming,” says Ann-Marie Kungl, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County.
“We are bringing together cyclists, local businesses, Simcoe County tourism, and sport and recreation partners to highlight the importance of brain health through a fun event that showcases what our region has to offer while supporting our local charity.”
Perfect for All Levels of Riders
Oma’s Ride is designed for all levels of riders to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Starting at the breathtaking Quayle’s Brewery, riders can choose from three different routes through the gorgeous fall colours.
“Oma’s Ride is a not a race. It is a day for community to come together, enjoy beautiful cycling routes of 20, 50 and 100km distances through Oro-Medonte, and the Townships of Severn, and Georgian Bay,” explains Ann-Marie.
She continues, “Riders and supporters will gather at the unique Quayle’s Brewery in celebration of this inaugural event to raise funds for the Society’s social recreation programs that focus on art, music and movement. Riders will enjoy lunch together and Barrie Art Club plein air painters will be on-site capturing the beauty of Simcoe County.”
Supporting Our Community
Oma’s Ride will not only be a wonderful day for all participants, but it will also raise much needed funds for important community services. Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County provides a wide range of supports for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their care partners.
“Fundraisers like Oma’s Ride help to raise awareness about the Society’s broad range of programs and services across Simcoe County while raising important funds to support programming we don’t get provincial funding for. We are a not-for-profit charity that relies on volunteer support, grants and donations as government funding covers 65% of our budget and the need for our resources is great and growing,” says Ann-Marie.
For Ann-Marie, the ride is not only important to her as a fundraiser for the Society, but also as a tribute to her Oma who lived with dementia. Together with her sister Jenny and brother Ben and their families, the siblings celebrate the legacy of their Oma.
“Donations given locally stay local and we have an amazing team who offer a broad range of programs and supports. Our Society is here to help and is your local resource,” says Ann-Marie.
Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County also has an education team that provides free training to community partners, businesses, and clubs on how to be dementia friendly.
You can help to be part of creating a more inclusive and connected community by scheduling training for your organization.
In addition, Ann-Marie urges anyone who needs support for themselves or a loved one to contact the Society. “Don’t wait to reach out if you or someone you know could benefit from connecting with us. Call to find out how we can support you and our team will help.”
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.
And don’t forget to register for Oma’s Ride!
