On June 22, Valley View welcomed residents, team members, families, and the community to its annual Longest Day fundraising walk.

The event raises awareness for those in our community who suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias and has been held at Valley View for several years, but this year’s walk had some notable changes that set it apart.

“The week of the event, the outside temperature was over 90 degrees with high humidity,” Senior Director of Resident Services Geli Losch said. “Our team made a quick decision to bring the event indoors.” 

The change of location—from an outdoor route through Valley View Village to inside Valley View Haven and Terrace—proved to be a happy adjustment. On the morning of the event, more than 125 people gathered in the chapel for a meaningful opening ceremony, with CEO Nicole Sarver speaking on the importance of dignity, choice, and a voice for those living with dementia-related illness, and support for their loved ones.

After the opening, participants walked on an indoor route that led through the Haven and Terrace before returning to the chapel for live music, ice cream, and popcorn. 

The event was championed by a committee of Valley View team members, community leaders, and resident representatives, and amplified throughout the community during the Memorial Day parade, as well as local billboards, radio stations, and newspapers. Free purple bracelets were given out to help “Paint Mifflin County Purple for Alzheimer’s Awareness.” The event raised funds through donations, a raffle, and a salad sale, with all proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

“The Longest Day walk was such a great way to bring our community together and show hope and compassion for community members who are living with the disease,” Memory Lane Coordinator Drex Treaster said. “It was a great morning for a great cause.”

This article is part of our 2024 Spring & Summer Newsletter. Find other articles or view the online newsletter here.