In the early 1990’s, I attended my first walk for multiple sclerosis. My husband had been diagnosed in 1988 and at some point, I think I just needed to do something to feel like I was helping him…or someone. We lived in the Los Angeles area at the time.
We live in Reno, NV now, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society has an annual walk in April or May. “The Society’s mission is: We mobilize people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS.” Although the chapter office is located in California, there is a local office that helps coordinate events which include:
Fundraising events: “Day-of event needs include: set up, registration, prize distribution, cheering squads, performers, rest stop, and finish festival volunteers.” Even if you cannot participate, you can help by raising funds for someone who can walk.
Advocacy volunteers: Write letters, e-mails or call congressional leaders
Volunteers for special events.
Fundraising is a great way to be involved.
The MS Society offers support groups in the community and educational programs.
As my husband’s disease progressed, it became necessary for him to use a wheelchair. It was unexpected and we had no way of immediately accessing a wheelchair for him. We found a great organization, Care Chest, that provided a chair for him to use until we could buy one.
“Care Chest is a Northern Nevada non-profit agency serving individuals in need by providing medical resources, free of charge.” Care Chest had their annual bowling tournament in September. Two other events this year were The Nevada Tennis Open and the Country Rockin’ Raffle. They partnered with KBUL 98.1 fm to raise money by giving away an autographed acoustic guitar.
Donations of items they need is a great way to help out, They maintain a wish list on their website at www.carechest.org and they are always looking for corporate sponsors.
If you can’t get out of your house to help but you have access to a computer, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of America encourages people to “create their own event”. Send them a pitch with your idea.
MSAA is a national nonprofit organization whose mission is to enrich the quality of life for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). Their focus is program oriented rather than research oriented like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. They also offer support groups and awareness events serving the Western region of the United States.