Step Up Like Grass Home: Join the Long-Term Care Challenge!

Last year, Grass Home Long-Term Care Home in Riverview, NB, was named the first-ever winner of the Long-Term Care Challenge for the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s. By raising the most funds per number of beds of any participating home, they earned the inaugural Forget-Me-Not Award—a beautifully carved wooden trophy that now proudly sits at their home, representing their incredible team effort and deep commitment to people living with dementia.

Since 2021, Grass Home has raised an incredible $8,260 to support Alzheimer’s care and research. But as anyone who knows them can tell you, what makes their efforts truly special is the heart behind every dollar.

“It’s important to me that our residents stay connected to the community,” says Stephanie, Grass Home’s Activity Coordinator and the powerhouse behind their fundraising efforts. “I couldn’t get everyone to the Walk in Moncton, so I decorated the courtyard, made a special treat, and we walked right here at home. There was so much joy and laughter—we’ve taken part every year since.”

A Walk with Heart

At Grass Home, the Walk is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of life and community. Residents are invited to walk laps around the courtyard, cheered on by staff, music, and sweet treats. What began as a small gathering has grown into a spirited annual event, complete with a little friendly competition.

“Last year, there was some friendly competition with residents trying to get the most laps in,” Stephanie shares.

Stephanie’s commitment comes from a deep understanding of the disease and the people it affects. “Working in long-term care, you quickly realize that dementia affects everyone differently,” she says. “We create personalized care plans and work closely with families. My role is to help residents find meaningful engagement in their days—because people with dementia can still have a good quality of life. Music, pet therapy, intergenerational visits—these moments really matter.”

Fundraising with Fun—and a Few Pies

Grass Home’s creativity doesn’t stop at the Walk itself. Their team organizes a variety of fundraising initiatives, including:

• A staff 50/50 draw
• Online donations from friends and family
• Raffle baskets filled with items donated by local businesses

But the biggest hit? The now-legendary pie-to-the-face challenge.

“For every $500 we raise, the owners, Lynn and John, and some staff take a pie to the face,” Stephanie says. “Our residents love it—some even volunteer to be the throwers and pick their favourite staff member to pie!”

It’s a fun, light-hearted way to involve residents, families, and the whole team in something that truly makes a difference.

A Cause Close to Home

For Stephanie and the Grass Home team, fundraising for Alzheimer’s is personal.

“We care for many residents living with dementia. Their families have often used the Alzheimer Society’s services before moving in, and we’ve even hosted training from Society staff to help our own team continue learning. Supporting this cause helps ensure those services can continue—and we all hope for a cure someday.”

Be Part of the Challenge

Grass Home has set a high bar—but they’ve also shown that creativity, compassion, and a sense of fun can turn a small idea into something truly impactful.

Now it’s your turn. If you work in long-term care, we invite you to rally your team and join the 2025 Long-Term Care Challenge. Create your own Walk Day at your home, raise funds, build community, and compete for this year’s Forget-Me-Not Award. We’ll even send you a kit with everything you need to get started!

Together, we can bring joy to residents, support families, and help build a future without Alzheimer’s.