UNION — For the second year in a row, classes at USC Union are raising funds toward ending Alzheimer’s disease.
On Sept. 22, USC Union’s University 101 classes — taught by Bobby Holcombe — participated in The Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Wofford College.
The cause is a personal one for Holcombe, as he said he has firsthand knowledge of the financial and emotional effect Alzheimer’s disease has on the individual and caretakers — most of whom are family members — as his father as well as other family members and friends have suffered from the disease.
“This illness does not profile one specific region, race, age or gender,” Holcombe said. “When it attacks, it strikes with vengeance. I want victims and caretakers to be aware of the services and resources that are offered to Union County residents.”
Holcombe referred to the Alzheimer’s Association of Spartanburg — located at 901 S. Pine St., Spartanburg — saying that Program Director Joyce Finkle advocates passionately on behalf of the cause. The Spartanburg office serves Union, Cherokee and Spartanburg counties.
University 101 curriculum includes various guest speakers and a community service project each semester. This semester, the classes raised a combined total of $5,321, topping last year’s total by $580. The total included proceeds from the Miss USC Union pageant held in March.
“I am both astounded and proud that as a collective group of students, University 101 made such a significant contribution to help find a cure for this disease,” Holcombe said.
Dr. Stephen Lowe, USC Union interim campus dean, expressed his support for the Alzheimer’s Project.
“This project represents USC Union’s growing and ongoing commitment to public service,” said Lowe. “Bobby Holcombe and his students represent the dedication of our students, faculty and staff to the larger community. They are to be commended for their role in the Alzheimer’s Walk.”
Although the walk was held Sept. 22, the fund raising will continue through November. Thus far, USC Union University 101 has placed second to Emeritus at Skylyn Place: Good Neighbors, which raised $7,247.57.
“With the community’s help, University 101 can be No. 1,” Holcombe said.
Those who would like to contribute can do so by sending a check — with “USCU UNIV 101 WALK 2012” indicated — to Alzheimer’s Association, 901 S. Pine St., Spartanburg, SC 29302.
Alzheimer’s Association Program Director Joyce Finkle can be reached at (864) 542-9998 from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. There is also a 24/7 toll-free help line — 1-800-272-3900.
Staff Writer Derik Vanderford can be reached at 864-427-1234, ext. 29, or by email at dvanderford@heartlandpublications.com.
Post a Comment
