Helping The ALS Association Do Whatever It Takes

ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. There is no cure for ALS yet, but The ALS Association with 37 chapters and 2 service areas across the country is fighting on every front. 

By leading the way in global research, providing assistance for people living with ALS through a nationwide network, coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care centers, and fostering government partnerships, the Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure. 

The Dormie Network Foundation supports The ALS Association’s fundraising efforts by donating auction packages to be used at various National Signature Events such as golf tournaments, galas, and online auction fundraisers.

“We’ve enjoyed having the Dormie Stay & Play as part of our Bid to Defeat ALS and An Evening of Hope events,” said Anne Rawlins, Director of Development for the Tennessee chapter. “We’ve had a lot of interest and were able to sell more than one package at each event! It’s been a special addition.”

In 2020, the Foundation helped to raise $30,500 across The ALS Association chapter network of National Signature Events. As of August 2021, funds raised using Dormie Network packages exceed $19,000 YTD. Even better, funds from the Foundation auction packages stay in the community to provide social workers, support groups, wheelchair loans, and assistance ramps.

“These funds are critical, as there is no cure for ALS, and on average a 2–5-year life expectancy when diagnosed,” said Jordan Bousman, Manager of National Signature Events. These funds, in conjunction with those raised by other Association partners, helped to launch the ‘Whatever It Takes’ initiative in May, to make ALS a livable disease.

Following the popularity of the 2014 Ice Bucket Challenge, the Association was encouraged and empowered to increase their impact in the rare disease space. Their immediate priorities for the next three years include:

• Ensure Access & Prevention: Ensure people with ALS have access to effective treatments, and cases of ALS are being prevented.
• Empower & Engage: Empower people with ALS to engage with the world in the way they want.
• Reduce Burdens: Reduce the physical, emotional, and financial burdens of living with ALS.
• Ensure Support for All: Ensure all people with ALS and their caregivers receive high-quality services that benefit them.
• Create Accountability: Create a culture of accountability to ensure meaning impacts for people with ALS.

“It’s unacceptable there’s a disease we don’t have a treatment for,” continued Jordan. “Our goal is to make ALS a livable disease, and ultimately, find a cure. With continued partnerships like with the DNF, we will achieve this goal.”

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ALS Association’s Mission: To discover treatments and a cure for ALS, and to serve, advocate for, and empower people affected by ALS to live their lives to the fullest.