BUFFALO, N.Y. (February 9, 2026) – The Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will present a conference on Saturday, February 28, focusing on the challenges for people of color when facing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. “Empowering Black and Brown Communities: A Brain Health Conference” will take place from 12 to 3:30 p.m. at the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers (BNFC), 2365 Main St., Buffalo. People also can participate via Zoom.

The conference will feature guest speakers and activities that will assist participants in learning more about brain health, Alzheimer’s and dementia and supportive services in Western New York.

“Everyone deserves a life with the healthiest brain possible. We know that people of color are more likely than white Americans to develop Alzheimer’s disease or dementia,” says Yessica Amezquita, program manager for the WNY Chapter. “We want to ensure that members of Buffalo’s Black and Brown community have access to the latest information about brain health and strategies for risk reduction.”

Guest speakers will share research-supported strategies to promote brain health and reduce Alzheimer’s and dementia risk. Speakers include Kelly Wofford, MS, director, Erie County Office of Health Equity, Ian Barrett, PhD, executive vice president and chief people officer, Kaleida Health, and Minnie James, chief social welfare examiner, Erie County Social Service. Rachel Laster, MS, of Real Life Dietetics + Consulting, will provide a healthy cooking demonstration. Halimah Ouedraogo, DrPHc, MAS, CGHP, of Ne Taba International will guide attendees through a Taekwondo Yoga workshop to learn strengthening physical movements and centering techniques.

“We worry about our physical health, but brain health is also incredibly important,” says Carolyn Camm, conference committee member and presenter. “My brain fuels my curiosity and helps me keep expanding my horizons.”

A free caregiver resource fair will offer the opportunity to learn more about participating organizations, including the Erie County Department of Aging, FeedMore, the Buffalo Center for Health Equity, UBMD’s Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease, the Western New York VA Healthcare System and Buffalo Black Nurses Inc. D’Youville and UB School of Nursing students will be on hand offering blood pressure tests – heart health being a key factor in Alzheimer’s risk reduction – and sharing information about local Alzheimer’s and dementia research.

Registration is required and can be done online at bit.ly/AlzEmpower26 or by calling 800.272.3900. The conference is supported in part by grants from the New York State Department of Health.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, call 800.272.3900 or visit alz.org.