What began with a $218 Easter basket drawing in March has grown into a $7,300 contribution toward Alzheimer’s disease research and support, thanks to a communitywide effort led by Cedarhurst of West Plains.
Residents, staff, families and community supporters rallied behind the senior living community's Walk to End Alzheimer’s team over the past six months through giveaway drawings, bake sales and craft displays.
Life Enrichment Director Kim Harralston first brought the idea of holding monthly fundraisers to the community's Resident Council early this year. The campaign took on added personal significance following the passing of resident Pamela Causey in April.
In her memory, Causey’s son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Causey and his wife Joanna, challenged the community to raise $3,000, pledging to match the total dollar-for-dollar.
The community surpassed the challenge through a variety of fundraising activities. Highlights included drawings for two handmade quilts, one donated by family member Denise Fetter in honor of her parents, Cedarhurst residents Wayne and Gloria Mong. Weekly therapy dog visits by Molly, brought in by John and Amanda Shelley, raised $603 in donations.
An August bake sale featuring goods from local baker Rhonda Ball, alongside resident-made craft sales and events during Cedarhurst’s Route 66 Centennial Celebration, brought the community's total to $4,300. The Causey family then fulfilled their matching pledge to push the final total to $7,300.
"As a life enrichment director, fundraising for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is one of the most meaningful accomplishments that I can do for all seniors," Harralston said.
Cedarhurst residents, team members and supporters will take their fundraising total to Springfield on Sept. 26 to participate in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Jordan Valley Park. Cedarhurst Senior Living is participating as a national team in the 2026 event.
