During the San Diego County Board of Supervisors meeting on June 24, 2025, significant proclamations were made to honor Alzheimer's Disease and Brain Awareness Month, as well as to recognize the contributions of the Foundation for Care Integration. These discussions highlighted pressing health issues and the vital support systems in place for affected individuals and their families.

The meeting commenced with a proclamation recognizing June as Alzheimer's Disease and Brain Awareness Month, presented by a member of the Board. The speaker emphasized the profound impact of Alzheimer's on the community, noting that over 100,000 residents in San Diego County are currently living with the disease. This number is expected to rise, particularly among communities of color. The proclamation acknowledged the critical role of caregivers, who provide nearly two billion hours of unpaid care annually in California, often at great personal cost.

Julie Collins, a board member of the Alzheimer's Association of San Diego and Imperial Counties, accepted the proclamation and expressed gratitude for the recognition. She highlighted the association's efforts in supporting nearly 7 million Americans aged 65 and older with Alzheimer's, including 75,000 residents in San Diego County. Collins detailed the association's initiatives, which include educational programs for caregivers, fundraising for research, and advocacy for better resources. The organization has funded over $20 million in Alzheimer's research through local institutions, aiming to improve treatment options and ultimately find a cure.

The meeting also featured a proclamation honoring the Foundation for Care Integration, with Supervisor Jim Desmond recognizing the organization's commitment to supporting veterans and seniors. Tara Izzo, the foundation's executive director, spoke about their mission to provide personalized care and community support, emphasizing the importance of connecting young volunteers with seniors, particularly veterans. The foundation's grassroots outreach efforts aim to ensure that these individuals receive the care and respect they deserve.

In conclusion, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors meeting underscored the ongoing challenges posed by Alzheimer's disease and the essential services provided by local organizations. The proclamations not only recognized the contributions of caregivers and support organizations but also reinforced the community's commitment to addressing these critical health issues. As the county moves forward, continued advocacy and support for research and care initiatives will be vital in improving the lives of those affected by Alzheimer's and ensuring that veterans and seniors receive the care they need.