Hundreds crossed the finish line in support of raising funds to end Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. –Photo by Dan Gerber.

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s was held on September 14, and began at the Square on Second in downtown Manteno. More than 250 participants, with 45 teams, participated on the beautiful Saturday to raise money for further care, support, and research efforts for the Alzheimer’s Association.

It was a beautiful day as hundreds hit the streets of downtown Manteno in support of ending Alzheimer’s disease. –Photo by Dan Gerber.

Each registrant received a Promise Garden flower. Those carrying blue flowers represented someone living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia; Purple – for those who lost someone to the disease; Yellow – for someone currently supporting or caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s; and Orange – for those who support the Alzheimer cause and vision for a world without Alzheimer’s or other dementia.

Downtown Manteno was a sea of purple as residents participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. –Photo by Dan Gerber.

Many local businesses were in attendance, along with Kankakee area radio stations broadcasting live. To date, $51,000 has been raised in the area for Alzheimer’s.