Proceeds from September and October sessions to support the Alzheimer’s Society of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District
(SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – September 14, 2022): The Algoma University Thunderbirds Women’s Basketball team is excited to give back to the community through a new P.D. Day Camp program for elementary students in grades 4 through 8. On Friday, September 23rd and Monday, October 24th, the varsity team and coaching staff will host half-day all-gender skills development camps at the George Leach Centre, located on the Algoma University campus. Camps, with a registration fee of only $20 per session, run from 9 AM – 12 PM each day.
The team and Head Coach Ryan Vetrie are well known for their success with basketball programming such as Jr. Thunderbirds, along with the 705 Basketball League, set to return this fall for the first time since the pandemic. “The P.D. Day Camp program is special to us all, as it is the team’s way to connect with the community on a deeper level,” stated Coach Ryan Vetrie. “Of course, the team frequently works with youth to develop their skill set, but this time, the proceeds from the camp will be donated to charity – the Alzheimer’s Society of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District.”
Alzheimer’s disease is one of many types of dementia and has the highest prevalence of all dementias. With age being a major risk factor, those affected by Alzheimer’s disease typically have symptoms that worsen over time. Some of the characteristics include confusion, changes in mood, and loss of coordination. In some cases, an individual can forget how to perform simple tasks, such as getting dressed. Many families are affected when a loved one is diagnosed with a dementia, but with the services provided by the local Alzheimer’s Society, people can live well with dementia and their quality of life will improve, often delaying admittance into long-term care.
“We were so pleased to hear that the Thunderbirds Women’s Basketball Team has chosen our local Alzheimer Society to benefit from the PD Day Development Camps, and would like to extend our most heartfelt thanks. Funds will support local services such as family support and counselling, education, recreation therapy and the Adult Day Program,” says Bea Fioramanti, Fund Development Coordinator.
As Thunderbirds, we want to bring awareness, whilst giving back to such an important organization. If you are unable to attend, but still want to support the cause, the team will also be accepting donations.
Those interested in participating may register online here.
Photo: Bethany Balaktsis, Gracie Batongbakal, and Qeila Mbonihankuye of the Algoma University Women’s Basketball Team
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