NAPLES, FL. – The Fifth Avenue South Business Improvement District in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, Florida Gulf Coast Chapter will host the second annual “Purple Evening on Fifth” on Thursday, April 14^th. This event will bring awareness to Alzheimer’s disease and help raise funds for research and programs to support caregivers.

From 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Fifth Avenue South will be draped in purple with live entertainment, drawings, prizes and much more at Sugden Plaza. Business sponsors for the event include Brightstar Care, Naples Paradise Living Group, and Tieger Public Affairs.

“We are very excited about this year’s event, especially “Bubbles and Bling” where we are going to be giving away a pair of diamond earrings, compliments of Provident Jewelry, to one lucky winner,” said Lisa Kiddon, Development Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association, Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. “This special event is about raising awareness and resources to advance a cure or treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. We hope everyone comes out to support our efforts and support the businesses on Fifth Avenue.”

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, which is expected to increase to 12.7 million by 2050 if a cure or treatment is not found. The state of Florida ranks second in the nation in the total number of people aged 65 and older with Alzheimer’s (580,000), supported by more than 800,000 caregivers. That number is estimated to jump to 720,000 by 2050. It is further estimated that Collier and Lee counties have over 40,000 residents combined living with the disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association, Florida Gulf Coast Chapter serves 16 counties with education and support as well as raising funds for research. The Association’s mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.

“Evening on Fifth is our once-a-month tradition featuring live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of the Avenue, plus dining, shopping and more,” said Bruce Barone, Jr., executive director for the Fifth Avenue South BID. “We are delighted to partner with the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association and support their efforts to help address the growing Alzheimer’s issue in our state and community.”

Featuring more than 220 businesses, including high-end shops, world-class dining, unique boutiques and galleries, and exciting entertainment options, Fifth Avenue South is the vibrant heart of Naples.