Alzheimer Society analyzing options to serve County families

The Alzheimer Society of Prince Edward County confirms the appointment of Laura Hare as Interim Executive Director following the retirement of long-serving director Linda Jackson.
Hare has been the Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of Belleville-Hastings-Quinte since May 2004 and has worked with the local society on many projects and events over the years.

Laura Hare

“Laura has accepted the position as interim, “ explained society president Jon Leavens, “as the board of directors is carefully analyzing various options for ensuring the sustainability and growth of services in the County for families facing the challenges of dementia.”

Hare, while continuing as Executive Director for the Belleville Society, will be at the Picton office one day a week, usually on Mondays.  Barry Flanigan continues in his part-time role as an Education and Support Co-ordinator for the Picton and Wellington areas.  Sharon Brewster, an Alzheimer Society Education and Support Co-ordinator based in Trenton, will support families in Ameliasburgh.  Linda Steacy is now providing full-time administrative support at the King Street, Picton office Monday to Friday, 8:30 – 3:30.

“The new team is looking to build on Linda Jackson’s extensive community connections,” said Hare. “With one in 11 over the age of 65 living with dementia, there are a lot of County residents who will need the support of the Alzheimer Society.”

With just 35 per cent of the society’s budget funded by the government, the society’s volunteers are organizing the next community fundraiser – Walk for Memories.  Walks are scheduled for Saturday afternoon, Jan. 25 at PECI in Picton and the ESSROC Centre in Wellington.

For more information on Walk for Memories and to sign up, please go to walkformemories.ca or call the Alzheimer Society office (613) 476-2085.