In 2017, our former president, Scott Drury, came up with the idea for an annual motorcycle fundraiser, Rides4ALZ, which combines his love for motorcycles with his commitment to helping find a cure for the disease. And Drury's family is among 250,000 others who have loved and cared for someone impacted by Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

Since the inaugural event, Rides4ALZ has blossomed into a community ride that brings together hundreds of San Diegans and employees from SDG&E, along with an impressive list of sponsors. Despite the pandemic, more than 200 bikers still came together in 2020 and raised $180,000 for Rides4ALZ.  This year, the results are even better!

Saturday, July 10, will mark the fifth year celebrating this charity ride that helps support local people living with dementia, their caregivers, and to fund research for a cure. At our company, the event was so successful in engaging our employees that one of them out-fundraised every rider by a landslide. Mark Foster, a construction manager, raised over $23,000 for Rides4ALZ in just a few short weeks. Foster is joined by more than 30 SDG&E colleagues who are riding or volunteering in support of this year’s event, including president and chief financial officer, Bruce Folkman.

“It is very rewarding to support Rides4ALZ and Alzheimer’s San Diego, where I’m able to combine a passion for the outdoors and riding with such a worthy cause,” says Bruce Folkman. “This event ultimately helps so many individuals in our backyard as they grapple with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.  I look forward to this event every year.”

Following the 108-mile motorcycle ride, riders, family, friends, and Alzheimer’s San Diego supporters will gather at AleSmith for the Rides4ALZ After Party. After Party tickets are just $20 and include admission, lunch, a drink ticket, and door prize tickets.

To learn more about the July 10 event, including how to register, donate, or attend the After Party, visit www.alzsd.org/events/rides4alz. Every dollar raised will stay local in San Diego County to help the community we know and love.

Alzheimer’s San Diego is a local, independent nonprofit organization that helps families impacted by dementia by providing a wide range of innovative programs and services – all of which are free thanks to donations! 100,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s and related dementia in San Diego County.