Pictured is Amber Beason presenting the traveling business trophy to Team Bevacqua Marching with McKissock, who raised nearly $2,100 last year. Left to right are Deborah Smith, team member; Amber Beason, Regional Alzheimer's' Associate Manager; Jim Fehlman McKissock Employee Engagement Vice President; and Carmen Bevacqua, Team Captain and Engagement Committee member.

Carmen Bevacqua had good motivation to lead a fundraising effort for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s – family.

Each year, a traveling trophy is presented to the business team that raises the most funds for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. While Whirley Industries held the trophy for one year, it has been in the hands of ‘Team Bevacqua,’ composed of McKissock employees for the past three years.

“My father passed away from Alzheimer’s back in 2020, and my company colleagues combined teams in his honor. I had cared for him many years before his passing. My aunt and cousin’s husband also passed away from this terrible disease as well,” said Carmen Bevacqua, captain of ‘Team Bevacqua Marching with McKissock.

McKissock matches the amount that its employees raise, and at this time, it is the only area business that does. They challenge other companies to do the same.

Jim Fehlman, McKissock Employee Engagement VP, said, “We support our employees and their endeavors in fundraising; it is part of our culture.”

Bevacqua said, “We welcome any other businesses to enter teams of any size to compete with us.”

Greg Austin, president of Targeted Pet Treats, attended the presentation. His team is tied with McKissock for the 2024 fundraising efforts, and he would love to win the title this year.

Warren’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held Sept. 28 at Betts Park, 100 Ludlow St, Warren.

Registration is at 9 a.m., and an opening ceremony will occur at 10 a.m.

The event is open to the public and open to new registrations for individuals and teams alike.

For information about donating or registering for the walk, contact Amber Beason at anbeason@alz.org or 814-602-0955.