About Us | Memories Matter

Our Story

How It All Started

Memories Matter was founded by Reem Merchant, a student at Arlington High School in Arlington, Massachusetts, with a simple but powerful belief: every person — especially our seniors — deserves to be seen, valued, and supported.

What began as a personal passion for helping seniors in the community grew into a full-fledged high school club dedicated to supporting those suffering from cognitive impairment and dementia, and working alongside the Alzheimer's Association to spread awareness, provide education, and raise funds for critical research.

From organizing pickleball tournaments and distributing Mother's Day flowers at assisted living facilities, to participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer's Disease, our club has become a force for compassion and change in the Arlington community.

Today, Memories Matter continues to grow, welcoming new members, launching creative fundraising programs, and building bridges between Arlington High School students and the seniors who need us most.

Our Mission

To support seniors in our community — especially those battling cognitive impairment and dementia — through direct service, awareness campaigns, and fundraising for the Alzheimer's Association.

Our Vision

A community where every senior feels valued, where Alzheimer's awareness is widespread, and where young people are empowered to create meaningful change.

Our Values

Compassion, service, education, community, inclusivity, and the belief that every memory — and every person — matters.

What We Do

Our Programs & Activities

Pickleball Tournament Fundraisers

We organize fun, community-wide pickleball tournaments where participants of all skill levels come together to play, connect, and raise funds for Alzheimer's research and support programs.

Walk to End Alzheimer's

Each year, our team participates in the Walk to End Alzheimer's, raising funds and walking alongside families affected by the disease to show our solidarity and support.

Assisted Living Facility Visits

We make regular visits to local assisted living facilities, organizing special celebrations like Mother's Day flower distributions, holiday events, and companionship activities.

Awareness & Education

We spread awareness about Alzheimer's disease and dementia through school events, social media campaigns, and community presentations in partnership with the Alzheimer's Association.

Alzheimer's Association Partnership

We work closely with the Alzheimer's Association to support their mission, volunteer at their events, and channel our fundraising to their vital programs.

Our Team

Meet Our Committee

Students and advisors dedicated to supporting seniors and fighting Alzheimer's

Allison Hei

Faculty Advisor

Provides guidance and support to help Memories Matter achieve its mission of supporting seniors in the Arlington community.

Student Committee Members

Reem Merchant

Founder & President

Founded Memories Matter to bring joy to seniors and raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease in the Arlington community.

Chiara Vivenzio

Committee Member

Class of 2028

Dedicated to making a difference for seniors in our community.

Katherine Lee

Committee Member

Class of 2028

Passionate about supporting the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

Sameera Phuyal

Committee Member

Class of 2029

Committed to bringing joy and support to seniors in Arlington.

Momoka Mishina

Committee Member

Class of 2029

Dedicated to raising awareness and supporting our community's seniors.

Anastasia Wollen

Committee Member

Class of 2029

Passionate about making memories that matter for our community.

Scarlett Audet

Committee Member

Class of 2028

Committed to supporting seniors and fighting Alzheimer's disease.

Nadeen Nistas

Committee Member

Class of 2028

Dedicated to bringing compassion and care to seniors in our community.

Want to Join Our Team?

We're always looking for passionate students at Arlington High School who want to make a difference!

Get Involved

Want to Join Memories Matter?

We're always looking for passionate students and community members who want to make a difference.

Get In Touch See Upcoming Events