MDA Campaigns Support Summer Camp, NMD Community
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To help support its popular summer camp and the neuromuscular disease community, the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has launched campaigns through October that involve more than 1,000 retailers nationwide.
Proceeds from the MDA’s summer retail campaigns will benefit research, care, and advocacy for those living with muscular dystrophy, as well as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and related neuromuscular disorders.
The campaigns — called “pinup” and “roundup” — also will help fund the MDA Summer Camp, which is available to children ages 8–17 years old at no cost to families, and is staffed by health professionals and trained volunteers. After two years of virtual camp, the organization is returning to in-person experiences at locations throughout the U.S. However, it is still offering a virtual option.
“I’m excited that MDA Summer Camp is returning in person this year as well as virtually,” Alicia Dobosz, the MDA’s senior director, recreation and community programs, said in a press release. “This hybrid model means that any child in the United States living with a neuromuscular disease — including those with less mobility — can still participate.”
“Summer Camp provides kids with new experiences that build life skills and confidence, and it also lets them form new friendships. These personal connections are priceless because they provide our kids with support throughout the year,” Dobosz added. “That is why we say, ‘Summer Camp isn’t just a place, it’s a feeling,’”
To ensure the safety of campers, volunteers, and staff, the organization is returning in-person locations in stages. Because of COVID-19, the MDA will adhere to local, state, and facility guidelines, and also may have measures in place that are specific to its program. All procedures and guidelines will be established in consultation with MDA medical advisors.
As for the fundraisers, the pinup campaign entails providing a “pinup” in exchange for a donation. Each pinup will be displayed in retail locations. With the roundup campaign, purchases will be “rounded up” to the next dollar amount, with leftover change going to the MDA.
Retailers participating in the campaign include: Alaska Commercial Company, Albertsons Companies Foundation, American Furniture Warehouse, Bojangles, Circle K, Food Depot, Green Valley Grocery, Gordon Foods, Graham C-Stores, Graham Enterprises, Marden’s Surplus, Pete’s Market, Pizza Hut, SPB Hospitality, Vallarta Supermarkets, Walgreens, abnd Weis Markets. Visit this site for more information about the retail program and how to get involved, or send an email to [email protected].
Visit this webpage to register or volunteer for MDA Summer Camp. A video about the camp is available here.
“We are so grateful to our dedicated volunteers, retail partners, and generous sponsors for helping MDA build Summer Camp back stronger!,” said Dobosz.
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