KINGMAN, Ariz. — The Lingenfelter Center’s 13th Annual Race to Remember delivered something new this year: nearly every Alzheimer’s and dementia resident rolled out to the starting line and completed the first mile of the course, helped by staff, volunteers, and an energetic Lee Williams High School cheer squad.
The center, an 88‑bed Alzheimer’s care residence with a strong national reputation, hosts the race each year to support its activities department. Administrator Stephanie Covanovich said the funds directly expand the experiences available to residents.
“We have this race to raise funds for our activities department to enrich the lives of the residents through more robust activities such as outings, maybe to Bearizona, or to Laughlin, as well as taking the residents simply to a movie or to the Mohave County Fair,” Covanovich said.
Those activities, she added, are part of why the center stays near full capacity and remains highly regarded.
“We’re one of the few facilities in Arizona that offers specialized dementia care training with a focus on dementia‑related behaviors in a secure setting, which is why we’re highly sought after.”
The Lingenfelter Center’s CEO, Kristen Ott, granddaughter of founder Dr. Lingenfelter, grew up inside this care community and has spent more than two decades in the field. She said the race reflects the center’s core mission.
“We really try to get them out of the buildings because the more activity, it just enriches their life and enhances their quality of life,” Ott said. “We really try to get them out of these four walls to enhance their daily life.”
This year, that philosophy was on full display. Residents didn’t just watch the race—they participated, completing the first mile before returning to the finish line to cheer on runners crossing in.
The Lee Williams High School cheer squad, nearly 50 strong, lined the course to support both residents and racers. Senior cheer captain Bella Kristiansen said the event gave her team a chance to connect with the community.
“I kind of think it helps you branch out to your community,” Kristiansen said. “It helps you get a feel for who you live around and kind of helps build that better community with other people.”
With volunteers pushing wheelchairs, cheerleaders shouting encouragement, and residents smiling through the morning breeze, the Race to Remember lived up to its name—celebrating memory, dignity, and the community that surrounds those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
