The South Carolina Federal Foundation
Pedaling for a Purpose
Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia that affects a person's memory, thinking, and behavior. Researchers believe there are many risk factors that play a role in causing this disease, including age, family history, genetics, head injuries, and certain medical conditions.
As one of the nonprofit organizations supported by the South Carolina Federal Credit Union Foundation, this fight to end Alzheimer's is a cause close to our hearts. Since 2016, we have donated over $343,000 to the South Carolina Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Our contributions supported the organizations care and support efforts, global research, and advocacy, providing much-needed resources for the thousands of families in South Carolina that are affected by this devastating disease. Our fundraising also helps provide 24/7 care and support via the Alzheimer's helpline (1-800-272-3900) and relief programs for caregivers.
Another way we support Alzheimer's research is through the Ride to End Alz SC, a 3-day cycling event dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the disease. Cyclists begin their journey in the Upstate traveling over 255 miles to Charleston over three days. This year, 461 people participated in the event, and $1.2 million was raised to help the Association continue its research.
South Carolina Federal employees began volunteering for the Ride in 2018, and each year, Team Blue shows up in full force to support the riders. Our employees write cards of encouragement, which are placed in the snack bags we provide for cyclists, man the water stations and prepare PB&J sandwiches while wearing matching PB&J costumes. If you catch a glimpse of the ride, you might see Team Blue in their royal blue t-shirts, waving pom poms and cowbells in the air, sometimes cheering so loudly they even lose their voices.
In 2022, we had a new reason to support the event: one of our employees was going to take on the 3-day challenge and participate in the ride. Scott Lambert, Indirect Lending Relationship Manager, trained for months until race weekend, where he laced up his shoes, buckled his helmet, and prepared for the ride of his life. Witnessing the event from a rider's perspective truly deepened our appreciation for the physical and emotional dedication required to participate in the ride.
In 2023, Colonel Kelvin L. Brown, one of our board members, also joined the ride for the first time. This year, Lambert and Col. Brown were joined by another first-time rider and South Carolina Federal employee, Tyler Aikman, who manages our Greenville Memorial Financial Center.
Participating in the ride for the first time was both challenging and rewarding. The support from South Carolina Federal and the community was incredible. Knowing that our efforts are making a difference in the lives of those affected by Alzheimer's kept me motivated during the 257-mile journey.
-Tyler Aikman, Greenville Memorial Financial Center Manager
-Tyler Aikman, Greenville Memorial Financial Center Manager
Our support extends beyond the physical event, with many employees participating virtually each year. During the entire month of July, nine employees participated virtually and rode on an indoor or outdoor bike. They also collected donations from friends and family, raising over $7,000 for the Association.
South Carolina Federal's journey with the Alzheimer's Association is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact in the communities that we serve. The funds we raise, the hours we volunteer, and the miles we ride all contribute to the fight against Alzheimer's. We are proud of our team and grateful for the opportunity to support such an important cause.