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 2022, we’ll be spotlighting a different volunteer from our Chapter each day. Today we are featuring…
BERNIE FRANKO
GREENSBORO NC
What brought you to volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association?
I was motivated both personal and professionally to volunteer. Personally, my Grandmother Marie Franko (we called her Grammies), suffered and eventually died from Alzheimer’s disease. She had 9 children and 27 grandchildren. They were the focus and joy of her life. At the end of the disease she could no longer recognize any of them. Professionally, I am a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, and I see not only the physical and emotional strain on families but also the incredible financial strain. The disease can wipe out a nest egg that took a lifetime to build, and destroy a financial legacy.
What volunteer role(s) do you have with the Association?
Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Guilford County Executive Leadership Team committee member and Corporate Fund Raiser through the Edward Jones National Walk Team
What do you enjoy most about your volunteer role?
Working with the people that are part of the Walk, both the staff and the volunteers. We all are bonded together with a loss felt by the disease, but the staff and volunteers are incredibly positive, energetic and are united and determined to make a difference.
What piece of your role do you feel makes the biggest impact?
Raising money and awareness. The sponsorship dollars help fund research and support for those suffering from the disease. We also highlight the resources and support the Association Association has for families and other people that are living with the disease.
If someone were considering volunteering with the Association, what would you say to them?
Do what you can. There is a role and place for everyone. Small acts of kindness and volunteerism go a long way. Unfortunately, we have all been touched by this disease, but we can all take some measure to help battle against it.
THANK YOU, BERNIE.
Volunteers truly help move our mission forward. Interested in becoming a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association in NC?
Visit alz.org/get-involved-now/volunteer or call 800-272-3900.
Alzheimer's Association North Carolina Blog 