John Jay grad raises money for Alzheimer’s Association

CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - Alzheimer’s is an affliction that is more than on the minds of people. 

“Everyone knows someone,” said Kyle Marin of the Hudson Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. 

The exact number among Westchester seniors is 13%, so one John Jay alum didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to help.

Brooke Habinowski seized on the annual South Salem Memorial Day Run/Fundraiser to organize the community and donate funds for the association. 

“We raised $1000,” said the 2024 grad, who tied the good deed through the South Salem Presbyterian Church.

Along with $800 raised in The Chip Andrus Chili Cook Off, which was spearheaded by church members Katie Watkins and Robyn Musicant, an $1800 check was presented at services. And the money will be well spent, according to Marin. 

“Everything we provide is free,” he said. “Fundraisers like this allow us to continue to serve.”

So not only care, but families are also often left in a lurch after a diagnosis. 

“We help figure out a plan because people don’t know what to do,” said Marin.

They also reach families in rural areas where services are not so easily attained, but either way, Habinowski didn’t want to forget the caregivers.  

“It takes a huge toll on them too,” said the St Lawrence College freshman.

Still playing soccer, she also does volunteer work through St Lawrence and hopes to figure out a way to connect what she does there to this community. A volunteer program manager, she’s got a title down here too. 

A deacon, Habinowski has the full backing and appreciation from Minister Mark Salmon - especially in terms of the way she gets the youngers swept up in good work. 

“She’s always a spark plug with the kids,” he asserted.

Her fire never needs to be ignited, though, and the proof is provided by the support she rounded up. There were 400 runners, 37 sponsors and plenty of volunteers to organize, but the biochemistry major still deferred credit. 

“This event would not be possible without everyone coming out rain or shine to support the growth of our local community,” said Habinowski.

Up for another go in May, she’s confident that the tie will be made to the trotters again. 

“The running community desires to be challenged and pushed to their limits, and I am extremely excited to be able to do that once again this year,” she concluded.