ALZHEIMER’S WALK RALLIES 1,000

On Oct. 4, over 1,000 participants came together at Sonoma State University for the 2025 Sonoma-Marin Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s disease — currently the most common form of dementia — is among the leading causes of death in Marin and Sonoma counties. The walk brought together individuals living with the disease or a related dementia, their families, caregivers, friends and community sponsors in a powerful show of solidarity. Smaller walks also took place in Marin County, expanding the reach and impact of the event.

The event was made possible by the dedication and support of more than 100 volunteers. Over 20 local businesses joined as sponsors and hosted tables at the walk. Walkers were cheered on by local high school bands, the Redwood Empire Chinese Association’s dragon dancers and Petaluma High School’s cheerleaders.

The colorful flowers carried by many of the walkers symbolized their connection to the cause: blue for those living with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia; yellow for caregivers/ care partners providing care and support; purple for those who have lost someone to the disease; and orange for supporters of the cause and to the mission.

“Every dollar raised helps ensure that families in our community have access to critical resources — from education and support groups to our 24/7 Helpline — and brings us one step closer to a world without Alzheimer’s,” said Shelley Dombroski, senior regional director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Northern California/ Northern Nevada.

Special guests included KRON4 news anchor Grant Lodes, who led the stage ceremony; Assemblyman Damon Connolly, who officially kicked off the walk with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting; and Heather Harris, director of wellness and enrichment at The Tamalpais of Marin, who energized participants with pre-walk warm-up exercises. The Alzheimer’s Association, with offices in San Rafael and Santa Rosa, has served more than 2,800 North Bay residents over the past year, many through its 24/7 Helpline which connects families to its educational programs, care consultations and support groups. Funds raised by the walk keeps these vitalservices available.

The event to date has raised over $551,000, bringing the Sonoma-Marin Walk closer to its $600,000 goal. Fundraising efforts will continue through the end of the year. Visit alz.org/ sonomamarinwalk to support this year’s fundraising. For more information, call the San Rafael office at 415-472-4340, Santa Rosa office at 707-573-1210 or the 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.