Annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s Brings Imperial Valley Community Together at United Toyota

-Editorial 

Community organizations, social service agencies, families and residents from across Imperial Valley gathered at United Toyota of Imperial on Oct. 23 for the annual Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s, an event focused on raising awareness, supporting families affected by the disease and promoting available community resources.

Organized by the Alzheimer’s Association San Diego/Imperial Chapter, the event featured 24 exhibitors representing nonprofit organizations, health care providers and community service agencies, along with food, entertainment and educational activities.

Agnes Zsigovics, MSW, community engagement manager for the Alzheimer’s Association San Diego/Imperial Chapter, expressed appreciation to United Toyota for hosting the event and helping promote Alzheimer’s awareness.

“We are so impressed with them and so very grateful,” Zsigovics said, recognizing United Toyota General Manager George Clue for accommodating the event by relocating vehicles to provide space for participants and exhibitors.

She said the dealership also supported promotional efforts through its podcast and radio outreach.

Zsigovics highlighted the event’s continued growth, noting that participation among community organizations more than doubled compared with the previous year.

“We have twenty-four exhibitors, and last year we had ten,” she said.

The event included a one-mile awareness walk scheduled for 5 p.m., with the Heber Middle School drumline helping launch the activities. Participants carried colorful flowers representing individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

Zsigovics emphasized the importance of connecting families with educational resources and support services, particularly those caring for relatives experiencing dementia.

She encouraged residents to contact the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24-hour helpline at 800-272-3900 for information about the disease, caregiving assistance, educational programs, and local support groups.

The organization also offers support groups in English and Spanish, including meetings on the first Wednesday of each month.

Imperial County has the highest reported prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in California and ranks ninth nationally among nearly 3,000 counties, according to information presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. Researchers continue to investigate factors that may contribute to the county’s elevated rates, including the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension, both recognized risk factors for dementia. 

Other potential contributing factors under examination include environmental pollution and levels of physical activity. Increased participation in clinical trials could help researchers better understand the disease, identify additional risk factors and explore potential prevention strategies.

Richard Perkins, host of the United Toyota Podcast, said the dealership’s involvement reflects its commitment to supporting community causes.

“As an employee here, it just gives you a sense of pride,” Perkins said.

He thanked United Toyota General Manager George Clue, Kia General Manager Jesse, and dealership owner Don Foreman for supporting the event and other community outreach activities.

Perkins also shared his personal connection to Alzheimer’s disease, explaining that two of his aunts died from the illness and that family friends are currently affected.

He said those experiences have motivated him to support initiatives that increase public understanding of the disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s takes place annually in more than 600 communities nationwide and is considered the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

Established in 1989 as Memory Walk, the initiative has mobilized millions of participants to support research, education and services for people living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological condition affecting memory, thinking and daily functioning. It is the most common cause of dementia and presents significant challenges for patients, families and caregivers.