Memory Matters Invites Community to Stay Home and Relax This Year
Memory Matters Utah (formerly the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Society) considered throwing the black-tie fundraiser gala of the year but has decided against such an endeavor during the hectic holiday season.
“Providing seniors and caregivers with memory resources, education and support shouldn’t require generous people go through a huge, expensive ordeal,” Memory Matters Utah Founder and Director LuAnn Lundquist said. “So instead of our amazing volunteers spending weeks planning the details of a fabulous black-tie fundraiser, we’re going to keep the team focused on providing compassionate support for those affected in our community.”
Memory Matters Development Director David Moore agreed. “We could have thrown an extravagant fundraiser worthy of our cause, but that’s not Memory Matters’ style. Our style is to keep things low-cost and effective,” Moore said.
What is given up
For instance, here is what Memory Matters estimates a night out at a gala fundraiser would cost the average couple:$150: Two tickets to a holiday, black-tie fundraiser.
$150: Two tickets to a holiday, black-tie fundraiser.
$250: Fabulous dress and accessories for her.
$100: Matching tuxedo rental for him.
$150: Cost of impulsively raising your hand before the auctioneer said, “. . . Going, Going, Gone!”
$650: Evening total
What is gained
“Instead of asking donors to spend their Friday night in a rented tux or uncomfortable heels,” Lundquist said, “we are asking generous benefactors to donate to our cause only a portion of what such a night might have cost.”
Lundquist suggests the following:
Your self-determined ticket price (donation) to the Memory Matters Utah nonevent of the year. Then stay home and enjoy a quiet evening knowing that your donation has helped immensely.
What is at stake
Over half of all Utah seniors live in Washington County, and according to a recent Intermountain Healthcare study, the ratio of seniors in Washington County will soon be more than 1 in 3. “Right now, over 3,500 seniors in Washington County are suffering with dementia,” Lundquist said, “and that number is going to skyrocket as this segment of the population grows. It affects police, first responders, hospitals, local businesses – all of us on the road. Everyone is affected by these statistics.”
Memory Matters works to reduce isolation and increase wellness for individuals with dementia and their caregivers through activities, support, education and consultations. “With the help of volunteers and the generous support of donors,” Lundquist said, “we are able to walk alongside those who are navigating the difficult path of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and give encouragement and support to their caregivers.”
Reserve your seat today
To reserve your virtual seat at the Memory Matters Gala nonevent you can donate online at: www.memorymattersutah.org, call their office at 435-319-0407 or send a check or money order to:
Memory Matters Utah 168 North 100 East, Suite 104 St. George, Utah 84770
Memory Matters Utah is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its mission is to reduce isolation and improve wellness for individuals with dementia and their caregivers through activities, support, education and consultation.
