CaringKind to Host New York City's Longest-Standing Alzheimer's Awareness Walk & Brain Health Day

Thousands will gather in Central Park for the 37th annual event promoting connection, care, and brain health

NEW YORK, Oct. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CaringKind, the leading nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's and related dementias, will host the 37th Annual CaringKind New York City Alzheimer's Walk & Brain Health Day this Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Central Park's Naumburg Bandshell. You can register for the walk at CKWalk.org. Funds raised from the Walk help to further CaringKind's mission to ensure that everyone impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia has access to care, guidance, and connection at no cost.

The walk unites participants with a Brain Health Day, offering hands-on learning and support for those impacted by dementia at every stage of their journey, from prevention and early detection to caregiving, community engagement, and quality of life. The Brain Health Day is designed to empower attendees through education about brain health and wellness.

"Our Walk & Brain Health Day in Central Park is more than a fundraiser; it's a movement of compassion, science, and community. As the largest support group gathering in the nation, this event brings together Alzheimer's care providers, researchers, and families alongside clinical trial representatives and pharmaceutical innovators - all united in the mission to advance brain health. With the addition of the Dream Lounge and our expanding Connect2Living Villages, we're creating spaces where care, science, and hope meet, reimagining what it means to live well at every stage of the Alzheimer's journey. In addition, we are launching the inaugural 100 Women of Impact initiative, educating the community on brain health." – Eleonora Tornatore-Mikesh, President & CEO, CaringKind

This year's Walk will honor four outstanding leaders in brain health and dementia research: Dr. James Noble, Professor of Neurology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Clinical Core Leader of the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, a trailblazer in brain health and dementia research; Dr. Jessica Zwerling, Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry and Director of the Center of Excellence for Alzheimer's Disease at Montefiore-Einstein, who has dedicated her career to equitable access and culturally responsive dementia care; and Dr. Sam Gandy, Mount Sinai Professor of Alzheimer's Disease Research and Associate Director of the Mount Sinai Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, one of the foremost experts driving innovation and breakthroughs in Alzheimer's research and the science of brain health; and in memory of Geri Taylor, presented by her son, Mark Taylor, honoring a lifelong healthcare leader and fearless advocate inspiring dignity, inclusion, and empowerment for all those living with dementia. Returning as Masters of Ceremonies are Bill Ritter and Mike Marza, anchors from ABC7 Eyewitness News.

The day begins at 9:30 AM with the Brain Health & Wellness Experience, where participants can explore hands-on activities that promote cognitive engagement and mindfulness. Participants will have the opportunity to explore interactive wellness stations, expert-led resources, screenings, and family-friendly activities, hands-on tools, educational resources, and a Memory Wall honoring those living with or lost to dementia. At 10:30 AM, the community will gather for the Opening Ceremony and Walk — a two-mile loop through Central Park filled with music and moments of reflection.

Every step taken during the Walk helps CaringKind deliver on its mission to ensure that everyone touched by dementia has the strength and support to live fully and meaningfully. The organization provides personalized support through its expert Helpline (646-744-2900) and one-on-one care consultations, caregiver training and education for families and professionals, life-enhancing programs like Connect2Living and Early-Stage Engagement, and advocacy initiatives promoting brain health, early diagnosis, and stigma reduction.

Every three seconds, someone in the world develops dementia. In New York City alone, more than half a million people are living with Alzheimer's or related dementias. Women make up nearly two-thirds of both those diagnosed and those providing care, and communities of color face a higher risk of dementia yet often have less access to culturally responsive care. CaringKind bridges those gaps — meeting people where they are and making care accessible, inclusive, and compassionate for all.

Together, participants in this year's Walk honor memories, uphold dignity, and celebrate what it means to care — and to be cared for.

About CaringKind:

CaringKind is the leading expert in Alzheimer's and dementia care and support. With over 45 years of experience, CaringKind provides a comprehensive network of free programs and services that empower individuals and communities impacted by Alzheimer's and related dementias.

Through initiatives like Connect2Living, CaringKind is redefining what it means to live well with dementia, helping individuals, care partners, and families find purpose, connection, and community. The organization's programs include personalized care consultations, education and training for families and professionals, social engagement and cultural initiatives, support groups, and a Helpline that ensures everyone has access to expert guidance and compassionate care. CaringKind serves as a trusted partner in care, walking alongside people through every stage of Alzheimer's and dementia with dignity, understanding, and hope.

To register, donate, or learn more, visit https://caringkindnyc.org/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Andy Dueñas
[email protected] 

SOURCE CaringKind