We are endlessly grateful to our volunteers for giving their time to better the lives of those impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Our volunteers are truly the heart of the Alzheimer’s Association here in North Carolina.
In honor of National Volunteer Week 2021, we’ll be spotlighting a different volunteer from our Chapter each day. Today we are featuring…
MARIANNE CHANTI-KETTERL
CHAPEL HILL, NC
What brought you to volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association?
My personal experiences. My grandfather, his twin brother, and an uncle all died with dementia. I now have an aunt, an uncle, and several second cousins with dementia as well. I know firsthand how devastating this disease is on the entire family and how it can affect the entire community.
What volunteer role(s) do you have with the Association?
I am a member of the Board of Directors for the Eastern North Carolina Chapter and a Community Educator. I also help out with The Longest Day [with a team for The Longest Ride]. I have participated in the bike ride since I came to Durham in 2016. And, of course I collaborate with the Walk to End Alzheimer’s every year.
What do you enjoy most about your volunteer role?
I really enjoy doing the community education programs; particularly for Spanish speaking participants. People are really appreciative when you empower them with education and resources. It makes them feel less lonely in this battle.
What piece of your role do you feel makes the biggest impact?
I am not really sure. I think everything we do makes a big impact. Working hard to find donations is imperative for the organization to function. But as I said, I think that educating people one-on-one definitely makes the biggest impact on that one person and their family.
If someone were considering volunteering with the Association, what would you say to them?
Don’t think about it twice! This is a big, energetic, loving, purple family who works hard to help those most in need and supports scientific work to find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other dementias. You will feel welcome, supported, and empowered.
THANK YOU, MARIANNE!
Alzheimer's Association North Carolina Blog 