Walking Together to End Alzheimer’s: JFS Richmond Joins the Fight

Jewish Family Services Richmond is once again joining the fight against Alzheimer’s as part of the 2025 RVA Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the nation’s largest event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for care, support and research.

JFS Chief Administrative Officer Robin Abbott is serving on the event’s Community Engagement Committee this year, helping to connect more local organizations to the cause.

“I’ve always participated in the walk because I’ve worked in senior living for many years,” Abbott said. “When I came to JFS, it just made sense to continue supporting it, especially because we serve primarily seniors, and dementia is one of the fastest growing diagnoses affecting them.”

The need is staggering. One in three seniors dies from Alzheimer’s or other dementia, and nearly seven million Americans live with the disease today. In 2024 alone, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the United States $360 billion, a number projected to climb to nearly $1 trillion by 2050.

Last year marked the first time JFS fielded a team for the Richmond walk. For 2025, Robin invited her coworker Erin Tucker to join her as team co-captain, and together they have set a goal of raising $2,000.

This year’s fundraising, however, looks different thanks to a creative project that has captured attention and support. An artist friend of Abbott’s donated a small print which Abbott reproduced as note cards. Packs of four cards are available for $10, with every dollar benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association and counting toward the JFS team’s total.

“Instead of just asking folks for money, we now have these beautiful cards that people are excited to purchase,” Abbott said. “Probably half of what we’ve raised so far is thanks to the sale of these note cards.”

The JFS team will come together on November 8 to take part in the Richmond walk.

“We’d love to see our friends, clients and partners join us,” Abbott said. “Whether it’s by walking, donating or simply helping us promote the cause, every step makes a difference.”

To join JFS Richmond’s team or to donate, visit https://act.alz.org/site/TR?team_id=951975&pg=team&fr_id=18960.