Miss Maryland Volunteer 2026 Visits Salisbury to Promote Dementia Awareness

SALISBURY, Md. — Rebecca West, the reigning Miss Maryland Volunteer Organization titleholder, visited Salisbury and communities across Maryland’s Eastern Shore this week to promote dementia and Alzheimer’s awareness.

West, a senior at Frostburg State University, has centered her year of service on supporting individuals and families affected by memory loss. After her grandfather was diagnosed with dementia, she founded “Forget Me Not,” an initiative dedicated to providing resources and meaningful engagement opportunities for seniors.

Through her Purple Promise Initiative, West delivers sensory “Brain Baskets,” handmade fidget blankets and tap therapy sessions to nursing home residents. The program is designed to stimulate memory, encourage interaction and improve quality of life for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

During her visit to Salisbury, West met with local leaders, caregivers and families to share information about recognizing early signs of dementia and to encourage open conversations about support services available in their communities.

“I want every little girl and community leader to know that they can do it too,” West said. “I’m just from a small town in Frostburg, and I didn’t think something like this was possible. But because I found great mentors in Maryland, I was able to believe in myself and make a difference.”

In addition to her advocacy work, West maintains a 4.0 grade-point average while double majoring in early childhood and elementary education. She plans to pursue advanced degrees in counseling and educational leadership, with the goal of strengthening education across Maryland.

West is also fundraising for Alzheimer’s and dementia programs and plans to host her annual paint fundraiser in April. She said she hopes her visit to the Eastern Shore will inspire more families to learn the warning signs of dementia and join her in making the Purple Promise.