ALS “Spring into Action” Gala Raises $350,000

Portland, March 12th, 2016. Over 500 supporters of the ALS Association Oregon and SW Washington converged on the Oregon Convention Center at the “Spring into Action” Gala. The event raised over $350,000 to support care services for local families living with ALS, participation in public policy efforts and critical research into finding treatments and a cure. Valerie Hurst, a reporter with KATU, was the event emcee. (photo credit, Michael Keo)

Valerie Hurst, emcee, and Graham Crow, auctioneer, share a moment reflecting on Valerie’s father who is living with ALS in Massachusetts.

Timber Joey joined the celebration to support the mission and help auction off an exclusive Timbers package in the Live Auction.

Lance Christian, Executive Director, shares ALS research updates from Dr. Joe Beckman with the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University

From The ALS Association:

Since its inception in 2002, our local chapter of The ALS Association is the central source for services and education for people with ALS, their families, caregivers, and health care professionals in all of Oregon and the six counties of SW Washington. The progression of ALS varies significantly from one person to another. Responding to each person’s individual needs, our local chapter is available to provide vital services and reliable information.

A sampling of services provided free of charge:

• On-staff Care Services Coordinators who offer individual support and home visits to assess the needs of those living with ALS, suggest equipment and help families plan for the future.
• A Medical Equipment Loan Program that shares equipment to aid in daily living activities and with mobility when insurance and other programs cannot fund needed items.
• A comprehensive Augmentative Communication and Assistive Technology Program to support people living with ALS in their communication and technology needs.
• Caregiver Support Program to relieve stress and “burnout”  which includes family caregiver support groups, Care Connections guidance, In-Home Caregiving financial support and Respite Care grants.
• Monthly Support Group Program for people living with ALS, family members, caregivers and friends.
• Support and resources for children who have ALS in their families.
• Bereavement support for family members and friends who have lost a loved one to ALS.
• Partnerships in ALS multidisciplinary centers and clinics staffed by professionals with ALS expertise.
• Outreach to the health care community, home health care agencies and the community with updates on current ALS needs and solutions.

Our chapter receives no government or insurance funding – we rely solely on our events, corporate and personal gifts, and local foundation grants.  

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