"Being social and approachable are key factors to providing the best possible volunteer services. What stands out most in my mind from this experience is how the participants are appreciative that I'm a part of their group."

Previously a research scientist, Laurie McNamara worked as part of a team identifying novel therapeutics for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's. She has lent her knowledge to the Alzheimer's Association for the past year, assisting us in social and cultural outings for people with Alzheimer's and related disorders.  The outings are aimed at stimulating mental, social and physical abilities of the participants, while providing an afternoon of fun.  She believes that having an approachable and caring personality are key qualities for having an excellent volunteer experience, and that the donation of one's time can often be as significant and rewarding as financial contributions. 

“The more people who can spread the word about the disease, the more the public will be educated.”

As a retired Air Force Nurse of twenty-eight years, Mary Lynch began her work as a volunteer ten years ago, after being referred by an Alzheimer’s Association employee. Because Alzheimer’s disease has affected her family for over forty years, she has chosen to help achieve our vision of a world without Alzheimer's disease. Mary has provided office support for the organization and has been instrumental fielding calls and offering advice and referrals through our 24/7 Helpline. Mary provides a wide range of other services for the Alzheimer’s Association and has an expansive knowledge of memory loss, dementia, Alzheimer's, medications and other treatment options, as well as general information about aging and brain health. These are essential components that aren’t only beneficial to the people affected by this disease that she encounters through helpline, but to the staff who seeks her knowledge on a regular basis.

"Going to Sacramento, seeing how many Californians are affected, witnessing such powerful speakers, and seeing firsthand the power of numbers was my most memorable experience at the Alzheimer's Association."

Having been inspired to become a volunteer following the diagnosis of her husband’s early onset Alzheimer’s disease, Melanie Flynn became familiar with the organization as a participant in a support group. She has become an Alzheimer advocate, playing an important role in improving the quality of care and life for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families. As an advocate she is working to help shape laws at the local, state and federal level by communicating the Association's position to legislators and educating them about Alzheimer-related issues. She has assisted with helping to raise government funds for Alzheimer research and improving care and support.

"Getting to know the family caregivers at a deep and personal level, I've learned that we need to be flexible and adapt to the situations that are beyond our control, and that a sense of humor is essential."

Dedication, compassion and belief in the organization are all qualities that Sandy Braff believes are essential to being a volunteer at the Alzheimer’s Association. As a vital component of support groups, Sandy provides professional experience as well as group facilitation skills. Having been a part of this organization for over 21 years and having a background in counseling psychology, Sandy has said that she has learned so much about giving, aging, accepting and maintaining ones dignity as well as the importance of learning, helping, loving and embracing.

"The disease is a challenge to the community; Alzheimer's disease continues to affect an increasing number of people, particularly the growing aging population."

Sandy Silvers brings a vast amount of knowledge and skills to the Alzheimer’s Association helpline, including communication, compassion, patience, and empathy as well as the importance of being resourceful. As a retired Public Health Nurse Director, Sandy understands the importance of support and the self fulfillment one gains from providing assistance to others.

“The best part about being a volunteer at the Alzheimer’s Association as having the knowledge and ability to share information which helps manage a tragic disease.” 

Tom Bennett is a retired Sheriff, a current Disaster Coordinator for 211, an adjunct instructor at the Regional Public Safety Academy and a volunteer with both the Alzheimer’s Association and the Sheriff’s Department Search and Rescue. Seeing the connection between the Search and Rescue program and the frequent searches Sheriffs are called on regarding Alzheimer’s and Dementia, Tom realized how much his experience could help him become a Safe Return Trainer.  For the past year and a half Tom has lent his understanding and compassion to Alzheimer’s patients when they are reported missing.