For Eagle's Trace, More Than Just a Walk to End Alzheimer's™

September 18, 2013

HOUSTON, TX---Nationally, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's™ is the largest of its kind to elevate awareness and funds for care, support and research.  Held annually in more than 600 communities, it calls on people of all ages to participate in helping to reclaim the future for millions.
Locally, it can be a creative way to support a worthy cause.  From a prom to a television appearance, residents and employees of Eagle's Trace, the Erickson Living retirement community, seized the moment.  
They participated in the Katy/West Houston Walk to End Alzheimer's on Saturday, September 14th.  The event, coordinated by the Houston and Southeast Alzheimer's Association chapter, was held at LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch in Katy.
Ozzie Ausburne, program manager for the community's continuing care neighborhood, co-captained Team Eagle's Trace with Carlea Brock, social services manager for continuing care.
"We took an 'old-school' theme with special twists," described Mr. Ausburne.  "We partnered with a service group created by our continuing care residents called the Volunteer Club to create a country store and host a 2nd-Chance Prom and a pep rally.  They were fun ways in which to collect money for the Walk to End Alzheimer's."
Through September 18th, Team Eagle's Trace raised over $7,137 for the event.  The walking group consisted of fifty enthusiastic members, including residents, employees, family and even a team dog, Brennan, a Great Pyrenees. 
To generate public awareness, Team Eagle's Trace took to the airwaves on August 30th.  Team members appeared on Great Day Houston, the KHOU 11 News program hosted by Deborah Duncan, to promote the walk.
To raise personal awareness, Eagle's Trace partnered with HBO to present the Alzheimer's Project.  The interactive, two-day event put guests through the sensory life of an Alzheimer's resident.  Participants also viewed first-hand accounts from caregivers and learned about recent research and breakthroughs.
"Encouraging people to be involved was important because the event directly aids the Alzheimer's Association," stated Mr. Ausburne.  "And partnering with our residents was inspirational.  The Volunteer Club is composed mainly of memory care residents who were eager to contribute their time and talents.  We can't wait till next year!"
To learn more about the Walk to End Alzheimer's™, please visit www.alz.org/walk.

About Eagle's Trace:  Eagle's Trace is one of sixteen continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living.  Located in Houston, Texas, the scenic 70-acre campus is home to more than 650 residents.  Eagle's Trace is the ideal greater Houston retirement destination offering a true sense of community, convenience beyond compare and a sensible financial structure.

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