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 2025, we’ll be spotlighting a different volunteer from our Western Carolina Chapter each day. Today we are featuring…
Ramona Holloway
Gastonia, NC (Gaston County)
What brought you to volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association?
I want this organization to thrive to benefit other families like mine. I learned sanity saving tips for managing my mom’s dementia from the Alzheimer’s Association. Communication strategies were a game changer in relieving tension, soothing mom’s anxiety and helping her to maintain her dignity. After my mom passed away I found some Alzheimer’s Association information she’d printed out and used as a resource in the early stages. Through the organization, I was able to connect with other caregivers who understood the difficult journey. We could commiserate, share information and ultimately feel less alone.
What volunteer role(s) do you have with the Association?
My official role is serving on the board of the Western Carolina Chapter. I represent the Association at church, community and civic events where people are seeking information and connection. I participate in at least two Walk to End Alzheimer’s events each year and use my Family Dance Party CLT fundraiser to spread awareness and honor family caregivers during The Longest Day campaign. This year I’ve also stepped into advocacy, and I’m using my social media platforms to inform people about supporting legislation important to caregivers and Alzheimer’s research. [Ramona is a long-time media personality who has amassed a loyal following which has followed her family’s dementia journey over the years.]
What do you enjoy most about your volunteer role?
I enjoy the smiles on the faces of dementia patients and comments from family’s of patients that I’ve made a difference and they feel heard and seen.
What piece of your role do you feel makes the biggest impact?
I make the biggest impact by sharing my story of dementia caregiving through radical self care, acceptance and faith.
If someone were considering volunteering with the Association, what would you say to them?
Call me! It’s good for you in three major ways: Mentally because dementia and its friends, anxiety and depression, thrive in isolation. Physically because there are walks in the fall and lots of activities to attend during The Longest Day campaign in spring. Emotionally because spending time with good people doing good things just makes you feel good!
THANK YOU, RAMONA!
Volunteers truly help move our mission forward. Interested in becoming a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association in NC? Visit alz.org/volunteer or call 800-272-3900.
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