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It was an overwhelming show of support for NorthBay's team at the Walk to End Alzheimer's event, held on Saturday, Sept. 13. Not only did NorthBay's four teams field the largest number of walkers - or about one quarter of 3all participants who signed up to walk that day -- but NorthBay participants raised, by early estimates, about $17,000. That surpasses the goal of $15,000 set by Sandy Perez, NorthBay Adult Day Center's program manager.  

 "NorthBay, as an organization and its people, is just phenomenal in its support of causes," Sandy said, as she rounded up NorthBay team participants for a group photo. "Justina Dombrowski is an example of that kind of support," as she pointed to the dozens of cookie treats that Justina, Clinical Systems Analyst in IT, had donated from her business, Just Delightful - A Cakery, as a sweet treat for the walkers. "I try to do as much charitable work as I can," Justina explained, including serving as a vendor at this year's Wine & Food Jubilee. "I had three grandparents with Alzheimer's, so this is a cause that is close to me," she added.

Also feeling extremely passionate about giving back to the NorthBay Adult Day Center, in the name of the Alzheimer's Association, was Char Barros, whose husband, Leslie, spends four days a week there. It was the first time the Barros family participated in the Walk and when Char put out the call for support on Facebook, she was overwhelmed when friends, family members and even a former employer stepped up to donate $3,500. "Leslie loves coming to the center. He has such a good time there and there's always so much to do; he's exhausted when he comes home. And, we love that so much of the money comes back to the Adult Day Center. I'm amazed at the show of support,"

The Alzheimer's Association has promised to return at least 50 percent of all funds raised to the non-profit teams, which is an unusual proposition among national organizations, Sandy noted. "We will most definitely put the funds to good use."