Born and raised in Honolulu, Steven Tam spent many years recruiting and then training recruits at Prudential Locations Real Estate. Steven’s ability to connect with others not only made him an effective leader, but an impactful volunteer, as well.
Alzheimer’s Awareness Begins
When Steven’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2009, he left his full-time real estate career to assist his mother with caregiving. Steven knew nothing about Alzheimer’s, so he decided to attend a presentation by the Alzheimer’s Association — a crash course about the disease. There began a beautiful relationship. The Alzheimer’s Association provided him with resources and a network of others in same situation. Empathetic staff and volunteers taught him what to expect as the disease progressed.
The interaction with the Alzheimer’s Association prompted Steven to look for professional opportunities to help the community. What he found there was a need to support caregivers. That led him to AARP, where he headed long-term care, caregiving and financial security campaigns. He also managed BrightStar Care of Honolulu, which provides in-home services to those with dementia and other disabilities.
Following his father’s passing in 2013, his desire to make a difference in the lives those affected by Alzheimer’s increased. He became a volunteer at the Hawai‘i chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, helping with programs and events. He became more involved and was eventually became the director of development. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing the fundraising programs. After three years, he retired in 2020.
Volunteering With Aloha
Steven has volunteered as a community educator for about 10 years. He encourages others to volunteer and urges caregivers to seek support.
“Remember, you are not alone and be willing to ask for help — because people are willing to help more than you know,” says Steven.
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION (nonprofit)
677 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste. 301, Honolulu, HI 96813
To volunteer: alz.org/volunteer, alohainfo@alz.org
808-591-2771 | alz.org
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