AFA Teens
AFA Teens for Alzheimer's Awareness, the official teenage branch of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America ( http://www.alzfdn.org/ )
AFA is a national nonprofit organization comprised of member organizations across the United States dedicated to providing optimal care and services to individuals confronting dementia, and to their caregivers and families.
Founded in 2002 by a teenager, AFA Teens seeks to mobilize teenagers nationwide to raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease and to engage teenagers in the cause.
Our Mission is to:
* Raise awareness among teenagers and the general public about Alzheimer’s disease.
* Provide education, counseling and support to young family members.
* Enable teens to share feelings and experiences with other teens and experts.
* Refer teens and their family members to various programs and support services of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America and its member organizations.
* Help support the mission and services of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.
Welcome Message: Letter from the President
Dear Teen,
Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that causes gradual loss of memory, perception and the ability to care for oneself. It is estimated that as many as 4.5 million Americans currently have Alzheimer's disease. More than 15,000 people have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in my own community. It is time for teens to show their support for those affected by this devastating disease.
When I was in high school in 2002, I began conducting a comprehensive science research project on Alzheimer’s disease. While the scientific implications of my research were important, I wanted to go beyond academia, take off my latex gloves and lab coat, and address an issue often overlooked — educating society, and especially youngsters about Alzheimer’s disease.
I decided to take action, and was introduced to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), an organization so incredibly dedicated to helping those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. With the help and guidance of AFA, I founded AFA Teens for Alzheimer’s Awareness.
AFA Teens is the official teenage branch of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. AFA Teens hinges on three functions: awareness, volunteerism and support. Our objectives are to educate and inform the public about Alzheimer's disease, provide support to teenagers with families who have been affected by this disease, and involve youth in fundraising activities.
So what can you do? How can you get involved? The possibilities are limitless. I invite you to test your wings of volunteerism, compassion and dedication through AFA Teens. Join the AFA Teens network. Start your own local branch of AFA Teens. Organize a fundraiser in your school or community. Teach the public about Alzheimer's disease. Mobilize other teenagers. Inspire. Motivate. Reach out. Whichever way you wish to get involved, AFA Teens will help you make a difference.
Yours truly,
Neha Chauhan
Founder and President