Team Golomboski: A Family’s Fight for Hope and Awareness in Rhode Island

Team Golomboski is a Rhode Island–based team built on love, family, and the will to make a difference. Founded by siblings Alicia Golomboski and Joseph Golomboski Jr., the children of Joseph Golomboski Sr., the team was created to honor their father’s courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and to continue his fight through advocacy, community engagement, and hope.

What began as a small family initiative has grown into a powerful movement dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and supporting the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) Rhode Island Chapter. Every dollar raised by Team Golomboski stays in Rhode Island to support local families, educational programs, and life-changing research.

Since its formation, Team Golomboski has proudly raised over $20,000 to benefit the APDA Rhode Island Chapter, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s disease across the state.

Our Story

The story of Team Golomboski begins with Joseph Golomboski Sr. — a man remembered for his strength, humor, and unshakable love for his family. When Joseph Sr. was diagnosed with Early On-Set Parkinson’s disease, he faced every challenge with courage and grace. His strength became the foundation for his children’s mission and the inspiration behind Team Golomboski’s ongoing work.

In 2014, Alicia and Joseph Jr. joined the APDA Rhode Island Optimism Walk for the first time in honor of their father. That walk marked the beginning of a new purpose — to fight back against Parkinson’s through awareness and community unity. Every year since, Team Golomboski has proudly participated in the Optimism Walk, now in loving memory of Joseph Sr., keeping his legacy alive through action, hope, and advocacy.

From that first walk to large-scale fundraisers and awareness campaigns, Team Golomboski has grown into a vibrant organization that blends compassion, creativity, and purpose — proving that one family’s determination can spark change for an entire community.

Why the APDA RI Chapter Matters

The APDA Rhode Island Chapter provided hope, resources, and community support to the Golomboski family throughout Joseph Sr.’s journey with Parkinson’s. Their programs—ranging from support groups to exercise and wellness classes—make a real difference in the lives of those facing this disease. For Team Golomboski, supporting APDA RI means giving back to the organization that stood by their family when they needed it most.

Honoring a Legacy

Joseph Golomboski Sr. was more than a father — he was a role model of perseverance and optimism. His legacy continues to guide his children and inspire the organization that bears his name.

Today, Alicia Golomboski proudly serves on the Board of Directors of the American Parkinson Disease Association Rhode Island Chapter, helping lead initiatives that directly benefit local patients and families. Joseph Golomboski Jr. serves as President of the American Parkinson Disease Association Rhode Island Chapter, overseeing events, fundraising, and awareness efforts with creativity and dedication.

Together, they have transformed their family’s personal experience into a movement of hope and community impact — one that keeps Joseph Sr.’s spirit alive in every project they undertake.

Our Mission

Team Golomboski’s mission is to raise awareness, support Parkinson’s research, and empower individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease. The organization combines creativity, compassion, and community spirit to inspire hope and drive progress.

One of its most impactful initiatives, “Annual Parkinson's Awareness Month Comedy Show,” unites the community and advocates alike for an unforgettable night of entertainment and purpose. Each event channels the power of laughter into action — with all proceeds benefiting the APDA Rhode Island Chapter.

Our Core Values

Team Golomboski is guided by the same values that defined Joseph Sr.’s life:

• Family – The heart of our mission and the source of our strength.
  
  

• Compassion – Driven by empathy and the desire to make a difference.
  
  

• Community – Building unity through shared purpose and support.
  
  

• Perseverance – Continuing the fight with courage, hope, and optimism.
  
  

• Creativity – Using music, art, and storytelling to inspire and connect.

Our Impact in Rhode Island

Since joining the APDA RI Optimism Walk in 2014, Team Golomboski has become a cornerstone of the Parkinson’s awareness community in Rhode Island. Through concerts, fundraisers, and outreach efforts, the organization has raised over $20,000 to directly support the American Parkinson Disease Association Rhode Island Chapter.

These funds have helped strengthen programs that provide education, resources, and emotional support to families affected by Parkinson’s disease. Beyond financial impact, Team Golomboski has built a lasting community — uniting patients, caregivers, and advocates in a shared mission of hope and resilience.

Looking Ahead

As Team Golomboski continues to grow, Alicia and Joseph Jr. remain committed to carrying their father’s legacy forward. Their vision is to expand awareness, increase fundraising for the APDA RI Chapter, and continue inspiring others through creative, community-centered events.

With every step in the Optimism Walk, every dollar raised, and every song played, Team Golomboski proves that love, family, and faith can drive powerful change.

Join the Movement

You can help continue the legacy of Joseph Golomboski Sr. by supporting Team Golomboski in their mission. Whether through attending an event, joining the APDA Optimism Walk, volunteering, or donating, your participation fuels hope and progress.

Together, We Stand Strong Against Parkinson’s Disease. 

Meet Team Golomboski

Standing Strong Against Parkinson’s Disease

These photos capture the heart and spirit of Team Golomboski—a family and community united in love, hope, and determination. Founded by Alicia and Joseph Golomboski Jr. in honor of their father, Joseph Golomboski Sr., the team proudly carries forward his legacy through action and compassion.

From APDA Rhode Island Optimism Walks to community fundraisers and awareness events, every picture tells a story of resilience and purpose. Behind every smile, sign, and step is a shared commitment to support those living with Parkinson’s disease and to keep hope alive for a cure.

Each face in these photos represents strength, family, and the belief that together, we can make a difference. Whether walking, volunteering, or celebrating life, Team Golomboski stands united — for Joseph Sr., for every family affected, and for a world without Parkinson’s.