Waltonwood Cary Parkway, a premier senior living community, is inviting the public to try its hand at blackjack, Texas hold’em, roulette and more as they host a casino night fundraiser on Friday, October 26 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The free event is open to public at the senior living community (located at 750 SE Cary Parkway) and will feature casino games, light appetizers and refreshments. Guests will have the chance to bid on raffle baskets as well as make donations. The proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association and Dementia Alliance.
“This disease affects a significant number of families, and we want to support the research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association,” said Richard Mabe, executive director at Waltonwood Cary Parkway. “The casino night fundraiser is a fun way to bring dozens of people together to raise money and awareness for an important cause. This is the first time we’ve hosted a casino night fundraiser, but it won’t be our last. We are dedicated to giving back to organizations that fight for a cure. This disease touches so many lives, including residents who call Waltonwood Cary Parkway home. We hope the public will join our community and its residents for an exciting night of entertainment. We anticipate a successful event for both organizations.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, with more than five million people living with the disease and 47 million people worldwide suffering from dementia. Waltonwood Cary Parkway understands the importance of raising money and awareness for the disease and wants those affected to know they are not alone in this fight. Residents and sponsors are excited for the fundraiser, including Irene Garver, 98. She enjoys gambling and knows this is the perfect event to get people together and raise money.
“The casino night fundraiser is for a purpose, not just for fun,” said Garver. “I am very fortunate because Alzheimer’s and dementia hasn’t affected my family, but I understand so many others are in a different situation. This is a wonderful event that Waltonwood is putting on, and I hope it brings out many people. The casino theme is touching to me because my mother was fond of gambling. She lived to age 105 and would frequent the casinos in Lake Tahoe and Reno. This will be a special event, and I am thrilled to participate in it.”
“I am honored to sponsor an event for such an important cause,” said Chris Edwards with RE/MAX United in Cary. “So many people are impacted by Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia, including myself. After my mother-in-law was diagnosed with dementia, I created Rotarians Against Alzheimer’s and Dementia (RADA). Our group uses music to help renew lives lost to Alzheimer’s and dementia. We give iPods to seniors who live in communities and let them listen to the music of their choice. I noticed there was a void when it came to music therapy, and I decided to fill it. It’s been a powerful tool to help bring back lost memories. I work closely with Waltonwood Cary Parkway, and I’m grateful to support its fundraising event.”