‘Be Their Muscle’ MDA campaign marks 10 years of workouts, fundraising
Nonprofit, Burn Boot Camp once again team up against neuromuscular diseases
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The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and Burn Boot Camp, partnering once again for the 10th annual Be Their Muscle campaign, are calling on everyone across the U.S. to join a workout and help raise awareness and funding to support the neuromuscular disease community.
Throughout April, more than 400 Burn Boot Camp locations in 44 states will unite in a fundraising campaign and workouts, with all proceeds benefiting MDA’s mission. Funds raised will support research, care and advocacy initiatives for people with muscular dystrophy (MD) and other related disorders. Those interested in joining may sign up for a workout session at a Burn Boot Camp location or make a direct donation.
“For 10 years, Burn Boot Camp has turned strength into impact for families living with neuromuscular diseases. This partnership helps our mission at the Muscular Dystrophy Association to speed research breakthroughs, support expert multidisciplinary care, and fuel advocacy efforts nationwide,” Ruth Ann Daily, MDA’s chief development officer, said in a press release announcing this year’s progrm.
On its website, the MDA notes “April is National Volunteer Month,” with links to various signups for supporters to get involved.
Daily specifically expressed appreciation to Burn Boot Camp and the couple who launched the fitness franchise in 2012 for a decade of partnership.
“We are deeply grateful to Morgan and Devan Kline, and the entire Burn Boot Camp community for building the ‘Be Their Muscle’ movement that continues to enhance the lives of the families we serve,” Daily said.
Be Their Muscle campaign has raised nearly $4M
Over the past 10 years, the Be Their Muscle campaign, resulting from a collaboration between MDA and the boutique fitness company, has raised more than $3.8 million.
The goal this year is to raise at least $1 million more, per the website. Thus far, more than $38,000 has been raised toward that goal.
The Burn Boot Camp community brings hope, energy, and heart to the mission of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and that support reminds us that we’re never alone.
MDA funding has helped accelerate the development and approval of more than 30 treatments, with more expected this year, according to the organization. It also helped fund MDA’s network of multidisciplinary clinics providing care and support at more than 150 medical institutions, and fueled efforts to expand access to healthcare, therapies, newborn screening, as well as educational, employment, and other resources.
Raised funds will continue to support these efforts, as well as MDA’s Summer Camp program, running this year from June 7 through Aug. 21.
The 23 weeklong summer camps are free of charge for children and adolescents in the U.S. The experience aims to help build independence, foster friendships, and inspire confidence for youth ages 8-17. Activities and programs include arts and crafts, sports, and games. Volunteer camp counselors and health professionals work to ensure a safe, accessible environment, as well as consistency in routine medications and treatments.
“The ‘Be Their Muscle’ campaign shows what real strength looks like — people coming together to lift families like mine,” said Lily Sander, MDA National Ambassador, who lives with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. “The Burn Boot Camp community brings hope, energy, and heart to the mission of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and that support reminds us that we’re never alone.”
