Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton

The Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton was established in 1986 by a group of local volunteers. “The first meeting was held in Petrolia at Twilight Haven Home for the Aged which is now known as Lambton Meadowview Villa. Dorothea Rivett was a driving force for the Society. If it wasn’t for her and the rest of the volunteers, this chapter wouldn’t be where it is today,” says Chief Executive Officer, Melanie Bouck. In 1993, they incorporated as a registered non-profit organization and established a new Board of Directors. At the same time, they relocated from Petrolia to an office in Point Edward. Today, they reside in The Chris Dawson Centre, located at 420 East Street North.

Throughout the years, the Society has grown not only in terms of people power but also in programming. “We started out with a couple of staff members and now have nine program staff who work within the office and sixteen personal support workers, providing respite care. We have really grown over the last few years,” says team member, Christine Wright. Programs are meant to change, grow, and expand as dictated by the needs of the community. “While we are funded in part by the Erie St. Clair Local Health Integration Network (LHIN), we rely on special events, grants, donations, bequests, and in-memoriam donations to provide our programs and services. All donations stay local.”

One of the newest events that has quickly gained community attention is the Alzheimer Society’s Home Improvement – Kitchen Edition Lottery. “The lottery was launched in May of 2021 and was wildly popular,” says Marie Marcy-Smids, Manager of Fund Development and Communications. Ticket purchasers have a chance to win a $50,000 custom kitchen. The first draw took place in February 2022, and the raffle is making its return with a 2023 upcoming draw date.

“We were fortunate to be able to partner with seven very community-minded local businesses who agreed to donate products and services,” shares Marcy-Smids. The title sponsor, Sarnia Cabinets, is providing $22,500 for design, install and cabinetry. Other vendors include Pete’s Plumbing, Progressive Countertops, Burdett Electric, Twin Bridge Lighting, Custom Floors Carpet One, Northend Appliance, and Bigras Painting. “The inaugural year of the lottery netted the Society over $70,000; we are hoping to generate $85,000 this year,” says Marcy-Smids.

The timeline for the lottery is more condensed this year with the launch occurring at the Brigden Fair in October. Tickets are available at various outlets as well as at the Alzheimer Society's booth at Lambton Mall. Tickets can be purchased online as well as from the Alzheimer Society website.

Tickets are $50.00 and the draw will take place on February 16th at Lambton Mall.