IRON MOUNTAIN — The Alzheimer’s Association — Greater Michigan Chapter will host its annual Iron Mountain “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” Saturday, Sept. 7 at Family Ties Adult Center/Dickinson Iron Community Service Agency.

Registration for the 1- mile or 5K walk will begin at 9 a.m., followed by a 10 a.m. ceremony and 10:15 a.m. start.

More than 600 communities nationwide participate in “Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” which is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Registration is required for all attending and, while there is no participation fee, those involved are encouraged to fundraiser for the organization and bring attention to the cause.

The event will also feature complimentary refreshments, pre-ceremony entertainment, and viewing booths.

“We encourage people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to help us take the first step towards a world without Alzheimer’s by joining us for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” said Jennifer Lepard, president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association-Greater Michigan Chapter.

“With more than five million people in the U.S. suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, it is estimated that this year alone, the disease will cost the nation $290 billion. This event helps us provide care and support for the 190,000 Michiganders affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, and helps us to fund important research to end this terrible disease.”

Participants who have raised $100 or more will receive a t-shirt and, on walk day, all registrants will receive a wristband and a Promise Garden flower.

Flowers come in four colors to represent the individual’s connection to the disease: blue for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia, purple for someone who has lost a loved one to the disease, yellow for caregivers and orange for anyone who supports the cause and vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.

To donate, visit act.alz.org/walk, select a location then chose an individual or team to support, or the cause in general.

All contributions are tax deductible. A $25 donation from event participants and attendees is suggested.

“Our goal is to raise $5,000 so every donation is important,” added Lepard.

Barring severe weather, the event will take place rain or shine. For more information or to volunteer, contact Tammy Tomassucci, 906-774-8032, or by email, ttomassucci@dicsami.org.

Plenty of free parking is available adjacent to and behind DICSA, 1238 Carpenter Ave., Iron Mountain.

Founded in 1981, the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter is a private, nonprofit, voluntary health organization and one of more than 80 chapters across the United States.

The Greater Michigan Chapter is headquartered in Southfield, with regional offices in Grand Rapids, Marquette, Midland and Traverse City.

Covering 60 counties, its services are available to more than 138,000 individuals and their families who have Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.

The vision of the organization is to create a world without Alzheimer’s disease while optimizing the quality of life for individuals and families affected by dementia-related disorders. For more information, visit www.alz.org/gmc or call 248-351-0280.