From the beginning, CART has been a novel fundraising program. Originally founded by Roger Ackerman, a Rotarian in Sumter, SC, members were encouraged to voluntarily empty their pockets and purses of change, or whatever amount they choose, at weekly Rotary meetings. While the name itself (CART) stands for “Coins for Alzheimer’s Research Trust,” as the organization grew, we also began accepting contributions of currency, checks and credit cards from Rotarians in clubs and districts all along the East Coast.

The heart of Rotary is members who share a common passion for community service and friendship. Rotarians are “people of action” and number more than 1.4 million around the world. CART is a natural fit for one of Rotary’s seven areas of focus, “disease prevention and treatment.” To learn more about Rotary clubs in your community, visit the Rotary International website.

“Together, we see a world where people unite and take action, to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.” 

The CART Fund Board of Directors is made up of representatives from participating Rotary Districts, with both the District Governor Nominee and the District CART Chair designated as voting members. The Executive Committee, chaired by the CART Board President, provides leadership and oversight for the organization. A part-time executive director manages the day-to-day operations, including volunteers, fundraising and administrative needs.

CART is not an official Rotary International partner, but some individual Rotary clubs in the U.S. have chosen to support The CART Fund as a one-time project, while more than 25 districts and 440 clubs have made financial donations as an ongoing project in FY 2022-23, contributing more than two million dollars.  Rotary groups clubs into local districts for administrative purposes, and CART has “regional chairs” among our participating clubs and districts that serve as a liaison between our organization and Rotary leadership.

We are also a proud charter member of the Alzheimer’s/Dementia Rotary Action Group providing a global platform for collaboration, education and support. You can often find us in a “House of Friendship” or exhibition space at Rotary trainings, conferences and conventions. If you would like to have a CART dsplay at your event, or if you’d like to invite one of the prestigious CART researchers to speak, we would be happy to make arrangements for you.

For information on how your Rotary Club or District, or you as an individual, can join our fight against Alzheimer’s disease, please contact Executive Director Tiffany Ervin.