How Dallas Realtor Deb Williams Turned a Football Rivalry Into a Fight Against Alzheimer’s
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There’s no obvious connection between a woman’s flag football game, helping older adults make life-changing decisions, and changing the future of memory care. Unless you’re Deb Williams.
The longer you talk with the Allie Beth Allman & Associates Realtor, the more connected those seemingly different worlds become. Eighteen years ago, she helped launch BvB Dallas, an annual fundraiser that has since raised $7 million to advance local Alzheimer’s research and care.
The North Texas chapter traces its roots to a sister event in Houston. Watching the game firsthand — and seeing its potential to make a difference — got her thinking: “Wouldn’t it be incredible to bring this to Dallas?”
Deb and co-founder Erin Feingold White, whose grandmother was struggling with Alzheimer’s, got to work. They hoped the inaugural game would raise $20,000. Instead, it brought in $60,000, laying the foundation for what has become BvB’s largest and most successful chapter.
“The cause is deeply personal,” says Deb. She lost her father to the disease and her mother struggled with dementia. One memory, however, still makes her smile. “My mom was selected to participate in a Baylor Scott & White memory care clinical trial funded through a BvB grant. It was a full-circle moment for me.”
Those experiences also helped shape the direction of her career.
“Alzheimer’s is not a personal disease. It’s a family disease,” she says. “The whole family is affected because they have to completely rearrange their lives to figure out how to care for this person who can no longer care for themselves.”
Deb carved out a niche helping older adults and their families make informed decisions before they become urgent ones. Holding both Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) designations, she’s as much a coach as she is a Realtor.
“I approach it like I’m the project manager, bringing together all the moving pieces — from downsizing and senior living specialists to estate and financial planners.”
The need is clearly growing. Adults aged 61 and older now account for nearly half of all homebuyers and nearly 60 percent of sellers, making seniors one of residential real estate’s most influential demographics.
Among her best pieces of advice: encouraging clients to explore independent living before it becomes a necessity.
She likens today’s communities to “cruise ships on land” — places filled with friendships, activities, dining, and opportunities to stay engaged. “Too many people wait so long they miss the very years those communities were designed to enjoy.”
Deb is equally passionate about helping the next generation find its footing.
“There’s something really powerful about raising young professionals to be future leaders.”
She gives a shout-out to General Manager Rochelle Gotsdiner, who spent nine seasons as a player before stepping into the organization’s top volunteer role. “She’s one in a zillion — an out-of-the-box thinker focused on building positive outcomes.”
Deb isn’t exaggerating. Rochelle wasted no time tapping Richardson-based Texas Counter Fitters as this year’s presenting sponsor. “They do so much more than write a check. They want to make an impact,” she says.
“We couldn’t have a better partner, adds Deb. “They really understand what it means to build community.”
The ultimate goal: Tackling Alzheimer’s forever.
“BvB is about fun and philanthropy. A feel-good night for a great reason.”
What: 2026 BvB Dallas Flag Football Game
When: Saturday, August 8 | 7:05 PM Kickoff
Where: Bishop Lynch High School, 9750 Ferguson Rd., Dallas
