Alzheimer Disease International

Alzheimer University

How to set up an effective Alzheimer Association

25th - 28th May 2006

Dr. Stephen Abela, Chairperson and Dr. Charles Scerri, General Secretary represented the Malta Dementia Society during a 3-day training seminar known as Alzheimer University organised by Alzheimer Disease International. The programme was held in London and consisted of a series of workshops designed to strengthen organisations by focusing on fundamental issues in the setting up and running an association. The course covered the basics of identifying aims, fundraising, recruiting volunteers, running support groups, raising awareness and providing information.

There were 14 participants from 7 countries - Bermuda, Barbados, Bulgaria, Croatia, Iran, Lebanon and Malta. This was a good opportunity to make new friends from other organisations around the world. The participants were able to work closely with ADI staff members who have been following the development of our association from its start and who have been advising and supporting all along. The speakers hailed from well-established and renowned organisations in the United Kingdom - Alzheimer's Society, Alzheimer Scotland, Alzheimer's Ireland and Compass Partnership.

At the end of the course, Stephen and Charles identified three objectives to put into action over the next twelve months. These are to develop a programme for volunteers, to build on fundraising initiatives and to strengthen ways of providing information on dementia.