A new fundraiser coming to Simcoe County is giving local music lovers a chance to step into the spotlight while supporting a cause that touches more families every year.
The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County is hosting what organizers believe is the region's first-ever "Bandeoke" event, combining karaoke with the energy of a live band. Instead of singing along to a recorded backing track, participants will perform with local rock-and-roll group Mil and the Thrills.
"It's karaoke, but with a twist," said Jaimie Grant of the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County. "We will have a six-piece band behind people."
The event is set for Nov. 4 at Donaleigh's Irish Public House, with doors opening at 7 p.m.
Grant said the idea is popular in the United Kingdom, but appears to be a new concept locally.
"As far as I'm aware, it's never happened in our region or even provincially," Grant said. "It's an inaugural event."
The evening will feature a rock-and-roll theme, with singers choosing from an extensive song list provided by the band. Organizers are also hoping the event becomes the first of many.
While the focus will be on music and entertainment, Grant emphasized that the fundraiser serves an important purpose. Proceeds will support programs and services for people living with dementia and their care partners throughout Simcoe County.
The organization receives government funding for some education initiatives, but many of its programs rely heavily on community fundraising efforts.
"We're doing this because it's all for a good cause," Grant said. "All of the proceeds are going to support people who are living with dementia and their care partners, which will then help us provide free programming for all those people who are living with that challenge."
Programs supported through fundraising include Minds in Motion and Creative Spark, among others.
According to Grant, demand for support continues to grow as more families are affected by dementia diagnoses. She said the disease is increasingly impacting younger people than many residents might expect.
"This isn't just happening to your great-grandparents anymore or your grandparents," Grant said. "It's now happening to your parents and, in some cases, your spouse or your siblings."
Listen below to our interview with Jaimie Grant
Beyond raising money, the Alzheimer Society hopes events like Bandeoke will spark conversations about dementia and encourage people to seek support earlier.
"The most important thing I want to tell people when they maybe think something is wrong with themselves or someone that they love is to pick up the phone and call us because everything is free," Grant said.
She noted that individuals do not need a formal diagnosis to access information, guidance or resources from the organization.
"If you're having difficulties, I really hope that you can reach out to us. We are your friends."
Grant said residents should pay attention to significant changes in memory or behaviour, particularly if family members or friends are noticing repeated stories or confusion that seems unusual.
"Sometimes it's nothing, but sometimes it's something," she said.
The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County currently works with 135 volunteers and is always looking for more community members to become involved, whether for occasional events or ongoing support roles.
Residents interested in volunteering, donating or accessing services can contact the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County at 705-722-1066 or visit its website.
For those looking to support the cause while belting out a favourite classic rock tune, Grant hopes they will head to Donaleigh's and help launch what could become Simcoe County's newest fundraising tradition.
