I'm fundraising for...
We are honoring my grandpa Fred Gisler, who died at the age of 92 with unspecified dementia when I was a teenager. My grandfather was a gentleman, a jazz musician, a world traveler and a polyglot who earned his MBA and Masters of Public Health in a late career switch to lead fiscal affairs at Oklahoma's Department of Health and later came out of retirement to lead the Area Agency on Aging for the State of New Mexico. As he progressively began to lose his memory, he wrote an unpublished manuscript "Memory, Mind and Soul" that reflected on a search for meaning and truth of this experience.
It is in his honor, and in reflection of my own battle for my health and a career switch that more closely focuses on access, equity, and research (one that I am now realizing parallels his own) that I share this fundraiser. His own obituary from September of 2005 requests that donations be made to organizations conducting research in senile dementia - and so here, 20 years later, I hope that I can do that justice - in my work at the Association, and here in this small fundraiser.
The Alzheimer's Association is the single largest private funder of research on Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, Care and treatment has improved profoundly since my grandfather's death. The Association provides quality care and support through their free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900), in-person and virtual support groups, education programs and more. It also empowers the Association to accelerate the world's most promising research toward treatment, prevention, and, ultimately, a cure.
Event Information
Schedule of Events
10:30 am: Check In Opens
11:45 am: Opening Ceremony
12:00 pm: Jump
Location
Berean Lake at Berean Park
49 Reservoir Road,
Highland, NY 12528
About Subzero Heroes
The first Subzero Heroes was held on a chilly morning in February 2010 when 25 brave souls jumped into a frozen lake and approximately 80 others watched (and laughed). Since then, the event has expanded dramatically. Subzero Heroes is one of our most popular fundraisers -- and because of the strong media interest, one of our most visible. Funds raised for Subzero Heroes helps support the Alzheimer's Association's goals of providing care, support, and research on behalf of the more than 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer's and their families.
Don't Forget Your Costume
From superheroes to bowling pins and everything in-between, costumes have always been a big part of Subzero Heroes. Get creative and invite your team to join in your theme (including sidekicks).
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Where do the funds go?
The funds raised through this event benefit the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. See this page for more information on our fundraising standards.
Do I have to register in order to participate?
Yes! All participants (Heroes and Sidekicks) must register and sign a waiver in order to participate.
Is there an age minimum to participate?
All Jumpers (Heroes) must be 18 years or older on the day of the event to jump. No one less than 18 years of age may jump.
There is no minimum age for Sideicks (those who do not jump). A parent or legal guardian's signature is required to participate.
What is the difference between a Hero and a Sidekick?
Heroes are those who are jumping into the lake and agree to raise a minimum of $250. You must be 18 years age or older to jump.
Sidekicks are part of the Heroes team. At the event, they are found cheering on their Hero(es) from the sidelines. They also help the Hero raise funds and reach fundraising goals. Sidekicks do not jump.
Fundraising
How do I start fundraising?
The best fundraising efforts start by sharing your personal story about why you're participating in this event. You can share your story on your personal fundraising page by logging in to your dashboard. Once your page is updated, share it with friends, family, and coworkers via email, social networking, and word of mouth.
How is the money collected?
Donations can be made online with a credit card or by check or money order made out to the Alzheimer’s Association. Checks can be deposited instantly using the ALZ Fundraising mobile app. You can also mail donations to the Hudson Valley Chapter located at 2900 Westchester Avenue #306, Purchase, NY 10577.
To download the mobile app, visit the App Store or Google Play and search for "ALZ Fundraising."
Event Specific
This is an outdoor event so please dress appropriately.
