United Toyota Imperial Valley Hosts Summer Celebration to Support Alzheimer’s Walk

-Editorial 

United Toyota Imperial Valley will host a summer celebration on Aug. 21, to kick off the upcoming walk season supporting efforts to end Alzheimer’s disease.

The event will take place from 5 to 6 p.m. at Toyota United Imperial, 2351 California 86 in Imperial. Organizers said the gathering will provide an opportunity for community members to connect, find inspiration, and build momentum for the Alzheimer’s fundraising and awareness effort.

The event will include pizza, ice cream and prizes.

Jim Shinn, LCSW, of the San Diego/Imperial Chapter, wrote about the use of the five love languages as a framework for family members caring for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Shinn identifies service, affirmations, quality time, physical contact, and gifts as ways caregivers can express support and maintain connections with loved ones as the disease progresses. He notes that caregiving can include daily assistance with medical appointments and personal care, while affirmations, shared activities, music, appropriate physical contact, and thoughtful gifts can also help strengthen relationships. Shinn emphasizes that caregivers should consider each person’s preferences and comfort, particularly regarding physical contact and communication. 

The 2025 Imperial County Walk to End Alzheimer’s raised $3,505, surpassing its fundraising goal and contributing to the Alzheimer’s Association’s nationwide effort, which raised more than $112 million. Funds raised locally support support groups, community education, office hours, direct assistance, outreach efforts, and a 24/7 helpline for Imperial Valley residents affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. 

For more information, contact Kim Rivera at Kimberly.Rivera@unitedtoyotaimperial.com.