Two million volunteers are the driving force that enables MDA to accelerate its worldwide research program and provide diagnostic and follow-up care through some 215 clinics nationwide. Volunteers are the backbone of the Association's programs, helping with summer camp, support groups, seminars, Telethon, special events and many other programs.

MDA special events are a fun way to raise vital funds for the battle against neuromuscular diseases. If you'd like more information about participating in the fun events described below, please call your local MDA representative. To learn more about national sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jerry Weinberg, MDA's President & CEO, at (520) 529-2000 or via e-mail at jerryweinberg@mdausa.org.

MDA Special Events

Other Volunteer Opportunities

To volunteer or learn more about event happenings in your local area, please contact your local MDA representative.

MDA SPECIAL EVENTS

Bowling Against Dystrophy
Participants from companies, youth organizations and bowling centers enjoy bowling events to raise money for "Jerry's kids."® It's fun for everyone. National sponsorship opportunities are available.

Golf
MDA golf tournaments across the country provide the opportunity to network with business associates and, most importantly, help "Jerry's kids." MDA staff can tailor a corporate golf outing to meet your objectives. National sponsorship opportunities are available.

MDA's Stride & Ride®
The MDA Stride & Ride is great way to involve family, friends and coworkers in your local ALS community. Stride & Ride is an all inclusive celebration that anyone can participate in. Simply gather your family and friends to get active in the fight against ALS by participating in a low mileage, non-competitive, indoor walk with up-front donations and simple incentive structures. The event, consider by some to be a MDA Family Reunion, is a festive parade-like atmosphere where your friends and loved ones can make a big difference.

Hop-A-Thon®
The MDA Hop-a-Thon Program is an educational special event for preschool through second-grade children at day-care centers, preschools and elementary schools. The program offers a week-long disability awareness lesson plan; hands-on activities for the children with books and a video; and other free educational materials.

MDA Lock-Up
Be jailed for your convictions in an MDA Lock-Up. Local business and community leaders agree to be "arrested" (for having a "big heart").

Shamrocks Against Dystrophy®
This St. Patrick's Day fund-raiser is held by restaurants, bars, retailers and businesses to help people with neuromuscular diseases. All materials are provided free by MDA. It's a great way to create a festive St. Patrick's Day atmosphere.

Youth Events
In addition to the events described above, several hundred junior high, high school and college student organizations have combined fun with fund raising in sponsoring special events such as Superdances, Mega Skates, festivals, faculty-student competitions, "spirit weeks" and other events to raise money for MDA. In addition, many young people volunteer for local Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon broadcasts and MDA summer camps.

Other Special Events
MDA staff members in your area are ready to help you make your special event a big success. They have lots of creative fund-raising ideas that are proven winners, plus "how-to" guides that make the events easy to organize.

OTHER MDA VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES


MDA-sponsored summer camps offer a wide range of programs for young people ages 6 to 21 who are affected by neuromuscular disease. Campers attend week-long sessions organized by MDA volunteers and staff. Camp activities are geared to the abilities of campers and may include fishing, swimming, horseback riding, boating, field hockey and baseball. Less physically demanding activities include arts and crafts, nature study, talent shows, cookouts and entertainment.

Volunteer counselors (who must be at least 16 years old) receive an orientation and training that includes wheelchair techniques, lifting and transfers, personal hygiene, and emergency procedures. The primary responsibility of each counselor is to provide both physical and psychological support to their camper, thereby helping them to enjoy camp. Medical staff are available throughout the week to meet any healthcare needs that may arise.

Please call your local MDA representative for more information on the date(s) and location(s) of the camp(s) in your area.

The Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon is one of television’s most enduring events. This outstanding entertainment spectacular with many of the nation’s biggest stars will play a vital role in bringing help and hope to hundreds of thousands of people with neuromuscular diseases. The volunteers who assist with Telethon pledge centers across the country in a variety of ways are vital to the success of the event. Please call your local MDA representative for more details.

To volunteer or learn more about events in your local area, please contact your local MDA representative.