The Purpose Behind Ray and Hope

The Purpose Behind Ray and Hope

At the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay, we are always looking for new and creative ways to connect with people across our region. This year, two very special visitors have joined our mission, Ray and Hope. The Aliens are a pair of blue Northern Aliens with big hearts and an even bigger purpose.

Who Are Ray and Hope?

Ray and Hope are more than playful characters, they are symbols of unity, curiosity, and support. By traveling from business to business, community to community, they represent the idea that dementia affects many, and that together we can build more inclusive spaces for people living with dementia and their care partners.

With their striking blue appearance, Ray and Hope are hard to miss. Their journey across Thunder Bay and the surrounding region sparks curiosity, invites conversations, and gives families living with dementia a chance to feel seen and supported.

Beyond awareness, Ray and Hope also play a key role in raising funds for the programs that matter most to our clients. The dollars collected through this initiative help grow and sustain programs people rely on, while also supporting the operational costs that allow us to continue offering compassionate, reliable care across the region.

Why they Matter

The journey with dementia can feel overwhelming, isolating, and uncertain. Ray and Hope remind us that no one has to go through it alone. Each stop on their travels is a chance to:

• Raise Awareness: By showing up in local businesses, schools, and community spaces, Ray and Hope help spread understanding about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
• Spark Conversations: The aliens act as icebreakers, encouraging people to ask questions, share stories, and talk about topics that are sometimes difficult to bring up.
• Support Local Programs: Funds raised through Ray and Hope’s journey directly support the programs our clients value most, helping them grow and ensuring we can continue meeting the needs of people living with dementia and their care partners.
• Build Inclusive Communities: Their presence symbolizes that our region cares, and that together we can create dementia-friendly spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported.

Join the Journey

Community members can get involved by hosting Ray and Hope at their business or organization. Each location that welcomes them sends a powerful message of solidarity and hope to families affected by dementia.

Hosting one of the aliens is simple but meaningful. When Ray or Hope arrives, you’ll display them in a visible spot, like your storefront, lobby, or community space where people can see and interact with them. Many hosts also take photos with the Northern Alien, share them on social media, and encourage conversations with customers, staff, or visitors about why dementia awareness matters. Some organizations even choose to add their own creative touches, like decorating around the aliens, hosting small fundraisers, or creating themed menus. 

We encourage everyone who spots Ray and Hope to take a photo, share it on social media, and tag Northern Aliens and the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay. The more people who engage, the stronger our collective voice becomes.

A Message of Hope

Dementia touches many lives - but so does resilience, compassion, and community spirit. Ray and Hope carry a message that while the journey may be challenging, there is support, there are resources, and there is always hope.

Together, we can make our communities brighter, more inclusive, and filled with understanding. And sometimes, all it takes to start that conversation is two curious little aliens named Ray and Hope.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Northern Aliens for partnering with us and for sharing their story. Ray, our original Northern Alien was inspired by the real-life journey of living with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. By bringing Ray and Hope into our campaign, Northern Aliens has helped us honour that story while creating new opportunities for awareness, fundraising, and connection across our region.

This initiative is carried forward in memory of Ray - a reminder of the courage, creativity, and community that shine through even in the face of dementia. May Ray’s legacy continue to spark curiosity, compassion, and hope for all who cross paths with our campaign.