The 2026 Merced County Walk to End Alzheimer’s is set to take place on Oct. 3 at Applegate Park in Merced, bringing together communities across the county to honor loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s disease and raise support for those facing the disease.
Sponsored by the Los Banos Rotary Club, the annual event will begin at 8 a.m. and will include an opening ceremony, the Promise Garden ceremony, community resource booths, and a family-friendly walk route.
Mario Peña, regional director for the Alzheimer’s Association in Fresno, Madera and Merced counties, said the organization is working to strengthen its connections throughout Merced County so more individuals and families know they are not alone and know where to turn for support and resources.
“We want the walk to be more than an event,” Peña said.
“It should reflect the relationships we are building throughout the community and the impact of bringing people together around this cause.”
One of the most special moments of the walk will be the Promise Garden ceremony, which allows participants to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s.
Participants hold colored flowers representing their personal connection to the disease.
Peña described the ceremony as a moment of “remembrance, hope and unity.”
“It reminds everyone that behind every flower is a personal story and that no one should face this disease alone,” he said.
The Los Banos Rotary Club’s Rotarians for Remembrance team has set a $1,500 fundraising goal.
The team is inviting families, caregivers and community members who want to make a difference to join and walk alongside them, or make a donation.
According to Peña, fundraising at the event has an impact that extends beyond Walk Day.
Money raised supports Alzheimer’s Association programs, education, caregiver resources and community services that families can access throughout the year.
The association is also providing support directly to families in Merced County.
Peña said families in the area are seeking access to caregiver support and connections to local resources as they navigate the challenges of caring for someone with dementia.
“One thing that may not be fully recognized is how many families are navigating dementia while also balancing work, caregiving and other responsibilities,” Peña said.
“Many may not know what resources are available or where to turn for help.”
One resource available to local families is the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.
Trained specialists can provide care guidance, information about local resources, education and emotional support at no cost.
The helpline is available in more than 170 languages.
While the walk is intended to support those directly affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, Peña encouraged people who have not personally experienced the disease to participate as well.
“You don’t have to be personally affected — yet,” Peña said, noting that research studies and statistics indicate that many people will encounter Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia during their lifetime.
The event offers community members an opportunity to support families, honor those they have lost, and contribute to resources and research aimed at addressing the disease.
