The Alzheimer’s Association Blondes vs. Brunettes flag football game will kickoff at 3 p.m. on May 16 at the Girls Preparatory School’s Lower Field. The two teams, divided based on the age-old rivalry between blondes and brunettes, aim to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease among a new generation. Funds raised will benefit the care, support, advocacy and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. According to the Alzheimer's Association2014 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures, nearly two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease are women.
A volunteer event driven by young women, the first Blondes vs. Brunettes game was held in Washington D.C. in 2005. Since its inception, Blondes vs. Brunettes has expanded to more than 35 cities, including Boston, Buffalo, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Minneapolis-St. Paul and New York. Together, Blondes vs. Brunettes have raised more than $5 million in an effort to tackle Alzheimer’s disease.
"As a member of the event committee, I am so excited to help bring this event to Chattanooga. My Grandmother had Alzheimer's. I know about the struggles many caregivers face on a day to day basis and the invaluable support the Alzheimer’s Association provides,” said Sarah Gardner, an Underwriter at Unum and the Brunettes’ team captain.
Special Events Manager Beth Cragon is coordinating this new event and also shares her excitement about the inaugural game, "We are really excited to bring this fun event to the Chattanooga area,” says Cragon. “It is already in over 30 cities all over the country and we are excited about the opportunity to bring it to Chattanooga. This is a fun, new event that gives the young community leaders in our area the opportunity to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's.”
For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, Blondes vs. Brunettes, or becoming a sponsor, call 800-272-3900.