On Monday, June 2, 2014, the Alzheimer's Association, New York City Chapter will present actor Dominic Chianese with its Creative Leadership Award for his work as the founder of the "Joy Through Art" foundation, a non-profit organization that brings performing artists into nursing homes. The award will be presented at the annual "Forget-Me-Not" Gala, An Evening to End Alzheimer's. Chianese was previously honored at the event in 2005 for his riveting and realistic portrayal of dementia sufferer Uncle Junior on the hit HBO series The Sopranos. Chianese will perform.
Members of New York City's philanthropic, business, health care and Alzheimer's communities will join forces at the annual event, which will be held at The Pierre in Manhattan and is expected to raise $1.5 million. The event will be emceed by David Hyde Pierce, Tony Award winning actor and tireless advocate in the Alzheimer's community. Senior citizens in New York City nursing homes have known Dominic for more than three decades and have enjoyed a front row seat for his intimate music performances. In the 1980s, when working as a recreational staff member in a nursing home, with guitar in hand, Dominic would sing songs and share stories with the residents. They lined up in the corridors and would wait hours for him to show up. They became family. After 30 years of bringing them the joy of music, he knew this would be his legacy. So, Dominic created the "Joy Through Art" foundation, a non-profit organization that, today, brings professional performing artists into nursing homes. These visits improve the lives of the residents through the enriching experience of live music and theater, helping to fulfill their emotional needs and dispel their loneliness.Tickets start at $1,250 and are now on sale. To purchase a ticket for more information, visit www.alz.org/nyc or contact Karen Holland atkholland@alznyc.org or at 646-744-292.
About the Alzheimer's Association, New York City Chapter: The Alzheimer's Association, New York City Chapter provides free information, confidential assistance and support for those with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, as well as for their family members, caregivers and professionals. Our core programs include a 24-hour Helpline, Care Consultation, Education and Training, Support Groups, Early Stage Services and MedicAlert® + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return®. The Chapter actively advocates at the city, state and federal level to support related legislation and heighten public awareness. The Chapter's mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Videos