Alzheimer's disease is an affliction that affects 1 in 8 older Americans. Chances are a relative or someone you know has had their life negatively impacted by the disease. Author Nicholas Sparks' bestsellilng novel, "The Notebook" was based on the protagonist having this tragic and degenerative condition that eventually wipes away human memories. The national Alzheimer's Association is the leading, global voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care and support, and the largest private, nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's research. For the past few years, the Austin chapter has hosted the Tackle Alzheimer's Blondes vs. Brunettes® charity football game which has raised thousands of dollars for the organization. The game began in Washington DC in 2005 and has spread to other cities like the "Live Music Capital" since.
The players are women with spouses, boyfriends and neighbors acting as coaches, volunteers, and cheerleaders. The group has issued a call for interested players to get involved now as registration ends in less than one week, this Sunday, March 29.. The group is encouraging young professional men and women (typical age range is 25-35, but it's not exclusive) to join the cause and help tackle Alzheimer's. Anyone is eligible to participate by committing to raise a minimum of $500 for the Alzheimer's Association. Online registration is open now on the event website. This is a chance for you to join the most effective organization in the world in the battle against this disease.
Weekly practice will begin on Sunday, April 1, and Friday, June 8 will mark the fourth annual game, set to kick off at 8pm at House Park. This year is sure to be a great game as the Blondes look to defend last year's win and the Brunettes look to reclaim the title after winning the first two years in a row. The winning score was a pass thrown by "This Is Life in Austin" founder and publisher, Lyssa. Read her account of her 2011 game-day heroics here.
Aside from the benefits of helping a worthwhile organization that has been named the top large nonprofit to work for and is number five in the top 50 nonprofits overall by the NonProfit Times, there are a couple of fun events associated with the game. On April 28 a Kick-Off Event will be held at the Rattle Inn upstairs deck with outstanding views of downtown. The event is free to attend and you will get a chance to check out Ray Benson's new place off West Sixth, hear some live music and meet others involved.
A closing event, the 4th and Goal Gala will be held on May 19. The event is ticketed ($35-$50/person) with discounts for early-bird purchasers. Last year's event included drinks from Republic Tequila, Deep Eddy Vodka, Abita beer and Wines.com and live music. Details are still being finalized for this year's gala. Follow Alzheimer's Association - Capital of Texas on Facebook for updates on the event.
Looking to get involved? Want to see the game for yourself? Donate to one of the players today and you get FREE admission to the game!
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Tackle Alzheimer's Blondes vs. Brunettes® on the field.
