Landmarks across Virginia, including the Wells Fargo Tower and the Silverline Center, together with more than 1,500 buildings and landmarks around the world, will be lighting up teal on November 3 to raise Alzheimer’s awareness as part of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s (AFA) Light the World in Teal program.  Light the World in Teal 2025 is the world’s largest-ever organized collective light-up for a single cause.
 
The annual program, held in November as part of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, aims to literally shine a spotlight on Alzheimer’s disease and show support for the millions of people affected by it. Teal is AFA’s Alzheimer’s awareness color.  
 
Participating Virginia landmarks include:
 

• Wells Fargo Tower (Roanoke)
• Silverline Center (McLean)
• The Berglund Center (Roanoke)
• Virginia Beach Convention Center
• Virginia Aquarium (Virginia Beach)
• Main Street Station (Richmond)
• Hampton Roads Convention Center
• Hampton City Hall
• Richmond City Hall
• Chesapeake City Hall
• Harbor Park Stadium (Norfolk)
• Project Lifesaver International (Chesapeake)
• Greenwich Road Flyover (Virginia Beach)
• Building 30/ECSS Building (Virginia Beach)
• Various Sunrise Assisted Living facilities throughout Virginia

“We are grateful to have some of Virginia’s most high-profile sites raising awareness and supporting the millions of people affected by Alzheimer’s disease,” said AFA President & CEO Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. “From large skyscrapers and stadiums to small town halls, every landmark that lights up teal on November 3 brightens the spotlight on Alzheimer’s awareness across the world.”
 
The Virginia landmarks are among more than 1,500 sites in all 50 states and 13 other countries/territories “going teal” for Alzheimer’s awareness on November 3. This is the 12th year of AFA’s Light the World in Teal campaign.
 
Individuals can also participate in raising Alzheimer’s awareness by “going teal” on their own November 3. You can wear teal or even use social media to raise awareness.
 
Nearly 7 million Americans, including 164,000 Virginia residents, are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease. The number of people with Alzheimer’s is projected to double by 2060, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
 
For more information about AFA’s Light the World in Teal program, including a list of participating landmarks, visit www.lighttheworldinteal.com. Families looking for additional information about Alzheimer’s disease or support services can contact AFA at 866-232-8484 or www.alzfdn.org.

Under the bright lights of the Worldgate Athletic Club & Spa, the Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia (SCNOVA) turned up the fun and philanthropy on September 16, 2025, with its fourth annual Pickleball & Golf Festival Fundraiser. From 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., a lively crowd of guests, sponsors, and local dignitaries gathered at 13037 Worldgate Drive for an afternoon packed with athletic action, community spirit, and heartwarming causes.
What started as a novel way to blend two of America's fastest-growing sports has evolved into a beloved tradition for SCNOVA, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering older adults in Northern Virginia. Attendees dove into the excitement on 10 pristine pickleball courts, where competitive spirits shone in a spirited tournament. For those preferring a more relaxed swing, the golf simulation lounge offered virtual rounds on iconic courses like Pebble Beach and Augusta National. The energy didn't stop there—guests savored gourmet treats, struck poses at a whimsical photo booth, and rummaged through swag bags brimming with goodies. The real thrills came from the raffle, stocked with themed baskets; player prizes for top scorers; and a silent auction boasting everything from luxury getaways to unique local experiences.
"We couldn't have asked for a better day," said Carolyn Pennington, SCNOVA's Executive Director. "Seeing our community come together like this—laughing, competing, and supporting one another—reminds us why we do what we do."
The event proved a resounding triumph, surpassing its fundraising goals through the generosity of sponsors, partners, and attendees. These funds will fuel SCNOVA's vital programs, ensuring older adults continue to thrive through independence, lifelong learning, and meaningful social connections. In a region where aging in place is a priority, SCNOVA's initiatives help seniors maintain active, fulfilling lives amid everyday challenges.
Special shoutouts went to the media sponsor, The Golden Gazette, for amplifying the buzz pre-event. Local leaders, including Delegate Holly Seibold, Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra, Supervisor James Bierman Jr., and Mayor Linda Colbert, lent their presence and endorsement, underscoring the festival's role in community building. Leading the charge was title sponsor Len Adler of The Adler Foundation, alongside a dedicated team of staff, development committee members, and volunteers who orchestrated every detail with seamless enthusiasm.
For those who couldn't make it this year, mark your calendars: The 2025 festival's successor is already in the works for 2026. Registration details will drop on www.scnova.org in August—don't miss your chance to paddle, putt, and give back.
At its core, SCNOVA is more than an event host; it's a lifeline for Northern Virginia's seniors. Through hundreds of trained volunteers, the organization provides essential services like transportation, friendly check-ins, home repairs via "handy helpers," and enriching classes that spark curiosity at any age. "Our goal is simple: Help our senior neighbors live full, productive lives right where they are," Pennington added.
Ready to get involved? Follow SCNOVA on Facebook (The Shepherd's Center of Northern Virginia), Instagram (@Shepherds_Center_Nova), and LinkedIn for updates, stories, and ways to join the fun. Whether you're volunteering as a driver, donor, or lifelong learner, your support makes a world of difference. Visit www.scnova.org or call 703-281-0538 to learn more.
As the paddles quiet and the golf sims power down, one thing's clear: SCNOVA's festival isn't just a game—it's a winning strategy for stronger communities.