From a young age, Alexa Burton saw how Alzheimer’s disease impacts the people she loves.

One grandmother died because of Alzheimer’s when Alexa was very young. Throughout elementary and middle school, she watched as the disease slowly changed the other. Conversations became harder; memories faded. Moments ordinarily taken for granted became precious and fleeting. Determined to help fight the disease, Alexa reached for her running shoes.

As a middle schooler, Alexa used her passion for running to raise money to fight the disease that had taken so much from her family. Race after race, she ran in honor of her grandmothers. Every mile logged and finish line crossed was an opportunity to share her story and inspire others to join the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

It’s been more than 10 years since Alexa completed her first race. Now a rising junior in college, Alexa hosts a community run every summer with her sister, Neve, and her family. Her fundraising has brought hope to hundreds of people and raised tens of thousands of dollars for Alzheimer’s research. Learn more about Alexa here: https://curealz.org/alexa-burton-hero-spotlight/

We are proud to call Alexa one of our Heroes. At Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, Heroes are individuals, families, and groups who raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s research. Because 100% of donations from our community support our research program, every dollar raised by CureAlz Heroes moves science forward.

Heroes of all ages can turn their passions, interests, and even family traditions into meaningful fundraising efforts. No matter the age or idea, every effort makes a difference.

Summer is a great time to support and encourage young fundraisers, and there are plenty of ways to make memories while giving back.

For families with young children:

• Make a lemonade or snack stand: Kids can decorate signs, help pour drinks, and collect donations from neighbors.
• Bake or craft together: Spend an afternoon baking cookies or making a handmade craft. Deliver them to friends who donate.
• Host a backyard “fun run”: Create a short course in your yard or local park and invite friends and neighbors to join for a small donation.

For older kids and teens

• Host a community event: A neighborhood pickleball tournament, trivia night, or movie night is a fun way to bring people together.
• Showcase their talents: Musicians can host a concert, artists can sell prints, thespians can host a performance, and athletes can ask their coaches to turn a game into a cause night.
• Take on a challenge: Run a race or complete another endurance effort while asking friends and family to contribute.

When young leaders and families come together around a shared mission, the experience can be just as powerful as the impact, and kids learn that even small efforts can change the world.

For more fundraising resources or to get started, visit give.curealz.org/hero