Advocating Change
Time and Talent
Engaged 936 volunteers who gave 10,148 hours of service to the Chapter; a total estimated value of more than $216,766. Volunteers assisted at fundraising events, provided support in the office or served on a committee, helped people with MS in the community, and in many other ways.
Stand to Cure MS
Implemented the Chapter’s third annual “Stand to Cure MS”, a two-day grassroots awareness program taking place in 33 grocery stores throughout Utah. It was driven by more than 200 people, who manned informational stands and served lemonade, raising $5,374 as well as educating hundreds.
Met with federal and state public policy makers advocating for MS research funding, respite programs and to safeguard local services important to people with MS including Medicaid, and the implementation of new health care reform.
Shining a Light on MS
Generated public awareness via many avenues during MS Awareness Week including distribution of 400 orange awareness ribbons, a legislator reception at the Idaho statehouse, the lighting of the top floor of a Salt Lake City high-rise (Hamilton Partner’s at 222 Main Street), and news anchors at a Boise TV station wearing orange, among other ways. Garnered more than 140 news stories (print, TV, radio, Web) throughout Idaho and Utah including a local client highlighted by the Society in a New York Times magazine special insert.
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