Medway, MA The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 4 made a $100,000 donation from their charitable foundation to the Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter to support research, treatment, and advocacy for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia. The funds were raised by union members and partners through their union’s annual golf outing. 

Since its formation in 2018, the Operating Engineers Local 4 Charitable Foundation, Inc. has contributed to numerous causes throughout the region. This contribution continues the union’s long history of supporting organizations across New England and recognizes the Alzheimer’s Association’s leading role in research, advocacy, and care.

“We’re immensely proud to help advance the fight against Alzheimer’s disease,” said Local 4 business manager William McLaughlin. “Through life-changing research on treatments, prevention, and more, the Alzheimer’s Association is bringing us closer to winning the fight against a disease that has affected far too many families. This donation allows our members to support the organization’s incredible work.” 

In addition to industry-leading research, the Alzheimer’s Association provides care and support infrastructure for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The organization is the largest nonprofit contributor to Alzheimer’s research and aims to ultimately develop a cure. 

“This donation is going to make a real impact,” said Jim Wessler, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter. “Millions of people are facing Alzheimer’s disease, and this generous gift brings us one step closer to a cure. Thanks to the support from the members of Local 4, the Alzheimer›s Association will be able to provide much-needed care and support services for families, as well as fund critical research.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2020, as many as 5.8 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s disease. Younger people may get Alzheimer’s disease, but it is less common. The number of people living with the disease doubles every five years beyond age 65. This number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million people by 2060.

This contribution follows Local 4’s extensive track record of charitable giving to organizations across Massachusetts and beyond. For decades, the union has been able to advance the work of charitable causes where their membership lives and works. In addition to their most recent contribution, Local 4 has supported veterans, cancer treatment and research, substance abuse, food banks, and more.