Oars of Hope
Join us in the fight against Alzheimer’s
Our Mission
At Oars of Hope, we believe that raising awareness is the key to unlocking a future free from Alzheimer’s disease. Our commitment is to generate support and funding for the Alzheimer’s Foundation, empowering their vital work in research and care. By fostering understanding and compassion within our community, we aim to create a wave of change that uplifts families and drives innovation in treatment. Together, we can navigate these challenging waters and steer towards a horizon of hope and progress.
Why “Oars” of Hope?
Oars of Hope was founded, in part, to unite rowing, erg and paddling enthusiasts in the fight against Alzheimer’s. We seek to provide engaging virtual and community events which provide a platform in which passionate athletes are united in a mission-driven cause where competitive spirit is channeled into truly meaningful results.
Oars of Hope seeks to connect the fitness community through events that aren’t just about rowing the most meters…but, about making those meters matter.
Join us in a transcendent experience – where you can paddle with purpose…where every stroke matters… and the meters you row can make a real difference in the lives of others!
But it’s not just about rowing…
If you are passionate about helping others, your voice can be as powerful as any athlete at the helm of their chosen craft. Join our journey, sponsor a rower or team and share our mission with those you care about. Your contributions are instrumental in creating a supportive environment where passion meets purpose.
Together, let’s make waves that resonate far beyond the shoreline.
Dedicated to Supporting Alzheimer's Awareness
Stand with us in the vital battle against Alzheimer’s as we join forces to cultivate a world filled with empathy, support, and renewed hope for all those impacted by this challenging journey.
Every dollar raised brings us closer to reaching our goal of raising awareness and funding for Alzheimer’s research and care. 82% of you donation will be supporting Alzheimer’s most important inititives.
How Your Gift Makes an Impact
Your generous donations will:
1. Help Fund Research: Your support through Oars of Hope funds crucial Alzheimer’s research. Despite the widespread impact of this disease, it’s underfunded. Every dollar you give helps the Alzheimer’s Foundation drive forward in the search for better treatments and one day, a cure.
2. Provide Much Needed Support for Caregivers and Families: When you donate, you’re helping families get vital support through the Alzheimer’s Foundation’s 24/7 Helpline, caregiver resources, and educational programs. You’re giving caregivers the tools they need to keep going.
3. Raise Awareness: By supporting Oars of Hope, you’re spreading the word about Alzheimer’s. Together with the Alzheimer’s Foundation, we’re helping more people understand the disease and its impact, breaking down stigma, and inspiring others to join the movement.
4. Build Community: Your generous gift is helping to create a community of support, that brings together people affected by Alzheimer’s. Through online groups and events, families find connection, strength, and hope in knowing they’re not alone.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Dean DeMario
Treasurer
William B. Madden
Secretary
Michael A. Madden
Chief Executive
Blair Lacourte
Board Member
Bruce McDonald
Board Member
Programs and Events
Oars of Hope Virtual Holiday Challenge
Oars of Hope Virtual Rowing Event
November 27th - December 24th
This holiday season – don’t procrastinate…join our cause and PARTICIPATE!
Oars of Hope
A 30-day virtual indoor rowing event organized to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care and research.
Nearly every family knows someone affected by this terrible disease. We seek to unite people who care from across the globe to find a cure.
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner looking to get in shape, have some fun and support a worthy cause…every stroke makes a difference.
Working together…we CAN make a difference!
Oars of Hope – Mission on Main Street
Mission on Main St. is more than a fundraising campaign — it’s a platform for local pride, civic action, and collective purpose. This initiative was created to give neighborhoods, small businesses, and everyday citizens the tools and inspiration to raise awareness and funding for Alzheimer’s in ways that are meaningful, visible, and impactful.
Click to Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
Click to Enlarge
How to Get Involved with Oars of Hope
Join us in the battle against Alzheimer’s.
Row with Oars of Hope
…and enlist proud sponsors.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, every meter you row helps us reach our goal!
Sponsor or Donate
Sponsor a team, or individual rower or make a direct donation.
Every dollar brings us closer to a cure!
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by promoting this cause to the ones you care about. Almost everyone knows someone who has been affected by this cruel disease.
Embrace the Voyage to Restore Hope and Support Those Affected by Alzheimer's
Find YOUR Inspiration!
Maine Hometown Heroes
Across Maine and beyond, stories of courage remind us why we row, ride, and rally for hope. These hometown heroes show what it means to fight back — through action, advocacy, and unwavering determination — serving as inspiration for us all to do what we can to help find the cure for Alzheimer’s.
Tracey Collins – Racing Al
Racing Al follows Koenraad Kolhman on his extraordinary cross-country cycling journey from Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine, inspired by his friend Tracey Collins, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. The ride became a powerful symbol of friendship, hope, and perseverance — uniting communities across America to raise awareness for those living with the disease. The journey is now being developed into a full-length documentary, and Oars of Hope is proud to help raise funds to bring this inspiring story to life.
Ralph Carmona – Inspiring Hope
Maine’s own Ralph Carmona is redefining what’s possible in the face of Alzheimer’s. As the only person living with the disease to complete the Boston Marathon, Ralph continues to inspire through his advocacy and optimism. He also participated in clinical trials for Leqembi, the first FDA-approved Alzheimer’s treatment shown to slow cognitive decline (approved in 2023). His story is one of endurance, courage, and the belief that every step forward brings new hope to millions of families.
Sponsors and Key Donors
Special Thanks and Recognition
While space does not allow us to recognize everyone, we want to express our sincere gratitude to all who participated and contributed to help make it possible to support advances in Alzheimer’s research, care and support. Without you…none of tis would be possible.
Bronze $250+
Dow & Coulombe
Mike Bennett
Cat
Michael Anderson
Silver $500+
Paquin & Carroll
Gold $1000+
Bruce McDonald
Blair LaCourte
