The RivAlz Blondes vs. Brunettes women’s flag football game organized as a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association Western New York Chapter is getting a boost from a Buffalo Bill.
Linebacker Lorenzo Alexander is lending his expertise to the program as honorary chairman for the May 5 game that pits teams against each other based on hair color. The game also serves as a reminder of the toll Alzheimer’s takes not only on those living with a diagnosis, but care partners, family members, friends and co-workers.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that cannot be prevented, slowed or cured and across New York State, its impact is devastating: close to 400,000 individuals are living with dementia, with another one million people providing some kind of direct care for those individuals. The Alzheimer’s Association provides resources to all those impacted with free educational programs, online communities for caregivers and those living with the disease, access to resources across WNY such as support groups, professional training and a 24/7 toll-free Helpline staffed by master’s level clinicians.
“I am honored to advise such a dedicated team of athletes who not only work hard to play, but they work hard to raise awareness about dementia and the work of the local chapter,” said Alexander. Alexander is a Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, which is presented annually by the National Football League honoring a player’s volunteer and charity work, as well as his excellence on the field. In addition to supporting the RivAlz BvB program with player guidance and awareness of the program and the services of the chapter, Alexander runs his own charity, the Lorenzo Alexander ACES Foundation. The foundation’s goal is that every youth will be inspired to obtain a higher education, pursue a career and maintain a strong family unit while giving back to their community.
The RivAlz BvB game will take place on Sunday, May 5, at Clarence High School. Fundraising by team members and all proceeds from game tickets support the Alzheimer’s Association and its WNY programs and services. For program information, visit BvBBuffalo.com or call 1-800-272-3900.
