The Longest Day Alzheimer’s Association & Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. hosted a Healthy Caregiver Festival on Saturday, June 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Edward Waters College Adams-Jenkins Sports Complex in Jacksonville, Fla.

The event launched in efforts to advocate for the extra funding needed for millions of Floridians who have Alzheimer’s disease, a disease of the brain that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior.

As guests entered, they signed a voluntary petition for the advancement of funds to those affected by the disease. Representatives from the Alzheimer’s Association set up vendors at different tables promoting awareness, while the members of the Gamma Rho Omega Chapter, Inc. enlightened the audience about the risk of Alzheimer's.

“Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health,” said Courtney Walker, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Activities such as Zumba and salsa dancing with local personal trainers got the crowd out of their seats and dancing to the beat as they packed out the gymnasium floor. Followed up by a presentation on the signs, tips and the basics of Alzheimer’s disease. Also instructions on donating to the Caregiver-Support Program aiding the ailment.

“Alzheimer’s disease is one of the fastest growing health challenges among African Americans. With that alone we need to organize support groups and educational programs in our communities nationwide,” said Dzestinee Bland, a biology student at the University Of Florida.

Guests were provided with door prizes, healthy snacks and pamphlets to take home as they exited the building.

“I will always support the Alzheimer’s Association because they are truly out there saving lives. People take for granted the little things like memory until you no longer have one, then what? Now imagine how that feels,” explained Aja Fisher, a theatre major at Spelman College. Fisher was overjoyed to advocate for the disease.