Chicago Urban League Announces Support for Initiative to Promote Brain Health and Reduce Cognitive Decline in Illinois

The Chicago Urban League, in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, announces the launch of the Illinois Brain Health Project, a groundbreaking public health initiative designed to educate Illinoisans about the importance of brain health. This comprehensive campaign focuses on reducing cognitive decline by addressing modifiable risk factors and promoting healthy lifestyle practices, with a particular emphasis on reaching diverse, underserved, and higher-risk communities.

Many people overlook or neglect their brain health until they experience cognitive decline, not realizing that simple, everyday actions can help keep their brains healthy. This campaign is designed to educate local Illinois communities on the easy, everyday actions that can support brain health—like physical activity, quality sleep, and cognitive activity—that are within everyone’s reach, no matter their circumstances. The goal is to make brain health accessible and stress-free, so you can care for your brain without feeling overwhelmed. The campaign will launch with digital ads and a website (www.yourbrainwillthankyou.com).

“Ensuring that the communities we serve have access to information that can protect and improve their health is an increasingly important part of the Chicago Urban League’s work to advance equity,” said Karen Freeman-Wilson, President & CEO of the Chicago Urban League. “We’re pleased to collaborate with the Alzheimer’s Association of Illinois and other partners to share facts, tips, and tools to help everyone be more mindful of brain health.”

“We are proud to partner with the Alzheimer’s Association of Illinois on this innovative and memorable brain health awareness campaign,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.  “This campaign will promote the documented benefits of staying mentally and physically active and engaged. Dementia can be a devastating diagnosis for individuals and families, but there are steps you can take now to greatly reduce your future risk. Let’s do all we can to improve our brain health now and for our future. Your brain will thank you.”

“By focusing on reducing modifiable risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles, this initiative has the potential to improve outcomes for individuals at risk of cognitive decline, particularly in underserved communities,” said Delia Jervier, Regional Vice President and Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter Executive. “The Illinois Brain Health Project represents a significant step forward in creating a healthier future for all Illinoisans.”

Key Partners of the Illinois Brain Health Project

The Chicago Urban League is part of a planning committee convened by the Alzheimer’s Association of subject matter experts to inform the vision, strategy, and execution of the project. Organizations represented include the following:

AARP Illinois, Bright Star Community Outreach, Chicago Department of Family & Support Services, Chicago Urban League, CRIS Healthy Aging, Egyptian Area Agency on Aging, Enlace Chicago, Illinois Department on Aging, Illinois Public Health Association, Latino Alzheimer’s Coalition For Advocacy, Research and Education (LA CARE), The Midwest Roybal Center for Health Promotion and Translation | University of Illinois Chicago, National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Illinois OSF HealthCare, Rush University Medical Center, and SHARE Network.

The initiative will rely on partnerships with these organizations to ensure effective and equitable outreach. All materials will be available in Spanish as well.

Advancing Brain Health Across Illinois

The Illinois Brain Health Project underscores the commitment of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter and the Illinois Department of Public Health to addressing health disparities and supporting the well-being of underserved populations. By leveraging evidence-based strategies and fostering collaboration among health experts and community-based organizations, this initiative aims to create lasting change in brain health education and risk reduction.

For more information about the Illinois Brain Health Project, please contact Olivia Matongo at illinoisbrainhealth@alz.org.