SOS supports MDA, which is the nonprofit health organization dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA was created in 1950 by a group of adults with muscular dystrophy, parents of children with muscular dystrophy and a physician-scientist studying the disorder. Since its earliest days, it has been energized by its number one 1 volunteer and national chairman, entertainer Jerry Lewis.
MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through research programs, comprehensive medical and support services, and far-reaching professional and public health education. With national headquarters in Tucson, MDA has more than 200 offices across the country, sponsors some 200 hospital-affiliated clinics and supports more than 330 research projects around the world.
Read more about the organization and learn how you can donate.
MDA Summer Camp – “The Best Week of the Year”
Since 1955, MDA has built bridges and knocked down barriers for youngsters with neuromuscular diseases by providing an unforgettable week at MDA summer camp. Campers say the week they spend at MDA camp is “the best week of the year.”
Each year MDA supports nearly 90 summer camps across the country. MDA Camp is a magical place where year-round skills are developed and where a child with a disability can just be a kid. Locally, MDA summer camp takes place in Spring Valley, New York. In addition to knowledgeable camp staff and medical personnel, most campers have his or her own one-on-one volunteer, who helps with all aspects of both fun and personal care.
There’s plenty of fun. At MDA camp, barriers simply do not exist. Each camp provides a wide range of activities especially designed for young people who have limited mobility or use wheelchairs. Accessible activities range from outdoor sports such as swimming, boating, baseball, football and horseback riding, to less physically demanding programs like arts and crafts and talent shows. Special guests such as firefighters and Harley Davidson riders add to the enjoyment.
Local Information
For information on how you can get involved with MDA locally, please call (845)708-0741 or email hawthornedistrict@mdausa.org.