Who Knew $32,000 Could Fit in a Boot?

GREENFIELD, Wis., June 29, 2011—The Greenfield Fire Department Local #1963 teamed up with the Muscular Dystrophy Association this last week in the battle against neuromuscular disease.

The fire fighters removed their boots on the corner of 76th Street and Layton Avenue to collect money from motorists and pedestrians as a part of MDA’s annual Fill-the-Boot program. In just three days, the Fire Department raised $32,762.

MDA and the Greenfield Fire Department would like to thank TGI Fridays, Pizza Hut and Applebee’s for providing lunch, Sendik’s for offering water, North Shore Bank for counting donations, Greenfield Patch for covering the event, and M&I Bank for supplying parking spots

All donations will benefit local MDA clients and services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Camp Lake, funding clinic visits at Froedtert Memorial Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, and financing wheelchair repairs.

MDA’s Fill-the-Boot program is supported by fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin fire fighters raised $600,000 for MDA.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (262) 432-3269.

Wisconsin Benefit Rides Attract Over 2,000 Motorcyclists and Raise $200,000 for MDA

Cal and Laura Niemeier flex their muscles before they kick off the Tub Run for the 17th consecutive year. Cal was diagnosed with ALS in April 2010.   

GREEN BAY and JANESVILLE, Wis., June 28, 2011— Thousands of motorcyclists rallied in Wisconsin this month to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. 

With the help of local HOG chapters and motorcycle dealerships, MDA hosted two benefit rides, raising over $200,000 for the Association. 

The Packerland Ride attracted over 700 motorcyclists to Green Bay on June 4 with festivities including a 60-mile scenic ride ending at Doc’s Harley-Davidson in Shawano County, raffle, auctions, food and entertainment. 

The ride, which was organized by the Wolf River Harley Owners Group Chapter, raised over $48,000 for MDA. 

Nearly 1,600 motorcyclists kicked off the 17th Annual Tub Run on June 18 in Janesville, Wisconsin. Tub Run events ran throughout the weekend and raised over $149,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.  Pledge riders alone raised over $23,000, nearly doubling the 2010 contributions. 

Five pledge riders raised over $1,000 and had the opportunity to lead the ride with longtime Tub Run supporter, Cal Niemeier. Niemeier lead the Tub Run for 17 years, carrying the American flag on his motorcycle. However, in April 2010, doctors diagnosed Niemeier with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). This year, he and his wife, Laura, lead the ride together with the five pledge riders.  

The top overall pledge rider, Dave Alwin, won a four-day trip for two to Las Vegas to see the MDA Telethon. He gave the trip to Cal and Laura.   All proceeds from the Tub Run will benefit local clients of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and help finance clinic visits, support groups, and a weeklong stay at MDA Summer Camp.  

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education. To volunteer or for more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (800) 572-1717.

Gresham Fire Fighters Give Neuromuscular Disease the Boot

GRESHAM, Wis., June 28, 2011–The Gresham Fire Department will go beyond the call of duty July 2, when they join in the battle against neuromuscular disease. 

The fire fighters will remove their boots to collect donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association at the July 4th Parade. The Gresham Fire Department will participate in the Fill the Boot fundraiser from 12-2 p.m. 

All donations will benefit local MDA clients and services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Green Lake, WI, funding clinic visits at Prevea and Marshfield Clinics, and financing wheelchair repairs. 

MDA’s Fill-the-Boot program is supported by fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin fire fighters raised $600,000 for MDA. 

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call 920-499-4571.  

MDA Summer Camp 2011: Camp Lake, Wisconsin

This year, 41 campers and over 80 volunteers came together at the Salvation Army Wonderland Camp in Kenosha County for MDA Summer Camp. For five days, the kids enjoyed arts and crafts projects, played adaptive sports and fished. Each camper is accompanied by a volunteer counselor to ensure that exceptional needs are met at all times. Take a look at these some of these amazing experiences:

Looks like one of the counselors took their eyes off of the golf cart...

 Waitin for those fish! 

Franklin Fire Fighters Kick Off Their Boots

 

WHO:              The Franklin Fire Department and the Muscular Dystrophy Association

                                            

WHAT:            Franklin Local #2760 will participate in MDA’s annual Fill-the-Boot campaign. The fire fighters will take off their boots and collect money from passing motorists and pedestrians.

WHERE:         The intersection of 76^th St. and Rawson Ave.

WHEN:            June 8-10, 2011 from 2-6 p.m.

WHY:               The annual Fill-the-Boot campaign is a national program to support MDA. All donations will benefit local MDA clients and finance services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Camp Lake, support groups, clinic visits at Children’s Hospital and Froedtert Memorial Hospital, and wheelchair purchases and repairs.

Green Bay Local #141 Flex Their Muscles and Raise Over $41,000 for MDA

Check out the Green Bay Fire Department during their Fill the Boot collection. Thanks to WLUK for the excellent coverage of the event!

GREEN BAY, Wis., June 24, 2011—The Green Bay Fire Department Local #141 fought through the rain this week and raised over $40,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The firefighters removed their boots and at various intersections throughout Green Bay and collected money from motorists June 20-22. In the three day collection, the Department raised $41,202 for MDA’s annual Fill-the-Boot fundraiser.

All donations will benefit local MDA clients and finance services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Green Lake, support groups, clinic visits at Prevea Health and Marshfield Clinic, and wheelchair purchases and repairs

MDA and the Green Bay Fire Department would like to thank the Green Bay residents for their generous support and donations.

The annual Fill the Boot campaign is a national program supported by fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin fire fighters raised $600,000 for MDA.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (920) 499-4571.

  

Milwaukee Area Fire Fighters Raise Over $18,000 for MDA

 Franklin native and MDA client, Leah Vogedes, 5, helps

Franklin fire fighters fill their boots during their collection

            June 8-9. 

  

MILWAUKEE, Wis., June 20, 2011—South Milwaukee, Franklin and St. Francis fire fighters fought more than fires this month when they joined the battle against neuromuscular disease.

The fire fighters stood on various intersections in Milwaukee County and used their boots to collect over $18,000 from motorists and pedestrians for the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s annual Fill the Boot fundraiser.

South Milwaukee Local #1633 collected Friday, June 3 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the intersection of Rawson Ave. and Nicholson Ave.. They raised $5,878.02.

Franklin Local #2760 removed their boots June 8 and 9. The firefighters stood at 76^th and Rawson Avenue, collecting $8,406.45. The department had to cancel the final collection June 10 due to inclement weather; however, they will be setting a rain date later this summer.

St. Francis Local #2717 stood on Howard Ave. and Rawson Ave. June 17. In just nine hours, the fire fighters collected $3,880.03.

All of the money collected during the Fill the Boot drives will benefit local MDA clients and services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Kenosha County, funding clinic visits at Froedtert Memorial Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, and financing wheelchair repairs.

MDA’s Fill-the-Boot program is supported by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) and non-union fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin fire fighters raised $600,000 for MDA.

The tradition began in 1952, when a father in desperate need ran to IAFF member George Graney’s Fire Engine Company 1 in South Boston.  IAFF Local 718 immediately rounded up 20 fire fighters and set in motion a door-to-door canister drive that raised $5,000.

Realizing the potential that fire fighters had to offer the cause and their excellent image in the community, Graney approached and persuaded other IAFF members to support MDA.  In August 1954, IAFF named MDA as their “charity of choice” and their signature fundraising activity has been the MDA Fill-the-Boot drive.  The IAFF has emerged as the single-largest sponsor of MDA, contributing nearly $300 million since 1954 – all to benefit Jerry’s kids.  

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (262) 432-7992.                 

Local Harley riders to hit streets again for muscular-dystrophy benefit -- GazetteXtra

Check out the Janesville Gazette's coverage of the 2011 MDA Tub Run! Thanks for covering this, Janesville Gazette. Looks like it will be a beautiful weekend for the Tub Run. Many thanks to the South Central Wisconsin Janesville Harley Owners Group, Kutter Harley-Davidson and Dean for sponsoring the event!

Local Harley riders to hit streets again for muscular-dystrophy benefit -- GazetteXtra

St. Francis Fire Fighters Go Bootless for MDA

 
ST. FRANCIS, Wis., June 13, 2011–St. Francis fire fighters will battle more than fire this Friday when they join in the fight against neuromuscular disease.

St. Francis Local #2717 will remove and collect money in their boots for the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Fill-the-Boot program June 17. The firefighters will stand at the intersection of Howard Ave. and Rawson Avenue and take donations from motorists and pedestrians from 9 a.m.-6 p.m..

In 2010 the fire department raised $4,911 for MDA. They hope to raise $5,000 during this year’s collection. All donations will benefit local MDA clients and services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp, funding clinic visits at Children’s and Froedtert Hospitals, and financing wheelchair repairs.

MDA’s Fill-the-Boot program is supported by fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin fire fighters raised $600,000 for MDA.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (262) 432-7992.

MDA Summer Camp 2011: Your Chance to Experience "The Best Week of the Year"

 

WHAT:           An opportunity to visit MDA Summer Camp and see what it has to has to offer. MDA Summer Camp offers local children affected by neuromuscular diseases the opportunity to participate in typical camp activities such as fishing, sports, and arts and crafts in a completely accessible environment.

                        Come by to experience all that MDA Summer Camp yourself!

WHO:             The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)

WHEN:           Pilgrim Center Camp (serving children from Green Bay, N. Wisconsin, UP of Michigan): Wednesday, June 15, at 3 p.m.

                        

                        Salvation Army Wonderland Camp (serving children from Southern Wisconsin) Wednesday, June 15, 2011 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

WHERE:        Pilgrim Center Camp

                        W1010 Spring Grove Rd.

                        Ripon, WI, 54971

                        (920) 748-6750

                        Salvation Army Wonderland Camp 

                        9241 Camp Lake Road

                        Camp Lake, WI 53109

                        (262) 889-4305

 WHY:              MDA Summer Camp is funded by generous local community support, allowing these campers with muscle-wasting diseases to experience many activities they otherwise could not at no cost to their families.

Harley-Davidson Brings Bike Demo Fleet to Tomahawk Fall Ride

TOMAHAWK, Wis., June 13, 2011 – Harley-Davidson will help kick off the 2011 Tomahawk Fall Ride to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association September 15-18 with the 2012 Bike Demo Fleet.

Tomahawk Fall Ride participants will have the opportunity to test ride Harley-Davidson’s newest arrivals through the scenic Wisconsin Northwoods. Harley-Davidson will announce the 2012 motorcycles the week of July 18 in Anaheim, Calif. and this will be one of the first local opportunities to see and test ride the bikes in the 2012 Demo Fleet.  

The Tomahawk Fall Ride is a 4-day motorcycle event that brings together motorcyclists in the beautiful Wisconsin Northwoods to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This year, the event is also an official H.O.G pin stop so H.O.G. members can pick up their commemorative pins.

All money raised at SARA Park benefits local clients of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and help finance clinic visits at Marshfield Clinic and Prevea Clinic, support groups, and a weeklong stay at MDA Summer Camp in Green Lake. 

For more information about the Tomahawk Fall Ride, please visit the event website http://www.tomahawkfallrideformda.com or contact Heather Micoley at (920) 499-4571 or hmicoley@mdausa.org.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (920) 499-4571.

Franklin Fire Fighters Kick Off Their Boots

 

WHO:              The Franklin Fire Department and the Muscular Dystrophy Association

                                            

WHAT:            Franklin Local #2760 will participate in MDA’s annual Fill-the-Boot campaign. The fire fighters will take off their boots and collect money from passing motorists and pedestrians.

WHERE:         The intersection of 76^th St. and Rawson Ave.

WHEN:            June 8-10, 2011 from 2-6 p.m.

WHY:               The annual Fill-the-Boot campaign is a national program to support MDA. All donations will benefit local MDA clients and finance services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Camp Lake, support groups, clinic visits at Children’s Hospital and Froedtert Memorial Hospital, and wheelchair purchases and repairs.

Racine Local #321 Fires Up the Oven for MDA Client Family

Racine Local #321 welcomed MDA Local Goodwill Ambassador Jacob Smith and his family to the firehouse for a home cooked meal and tour of the station Monday, June 5. According to Jacob’s mom, Bobbi, the Smith family enjoyed lasagna dinner with the entire department, including the battalion and station chiefs.

“As always with the fire fighters, the hospitality was second to none!” Bobbi said.

After the lasagna dinner, Jacob and his family rode around downtown Racine in the fire truck, slid down the fire poles and received t-shirts from the firehouse.

MDA would like to thank Racine Local #321 for their continual dedication and hospitality to MDA clients.

Greenfield Fire Department Postpones Fill The Boot Due to Heat, Rain

GREENFIELD, Wis., June 7, 2011 –The Greenfield fire fighters will postpone their collection for MDA’s Fill the Boot fundraiser due to a heat advisory and predicted rainfall. Greenfield Fire Department Local #1963 will now collect donations from motorists and pedestrians June 20-22 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the intersection of 76^th Street and Layton Ave. MDA apologizes for any inconvenience.

Brookfield Business Leaders Head to Jail

 Reagan Imhoff, 6, is Wisconsin's MDA Goodwill Ambassador. She will be allowed visitation rights from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Mitchell's Fish Market at Brookfield Square. 

BROOKFIELD, Wis., June 3, 2011 –75 local business leaders will head

to “jail” at Mitchell’s Fish Market, 275 N. Moorland Rd., on Thursday, June 9 to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

These jailbirds will be arrested at their places of business and transported to the restaurant from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in order to raise “bail” for the MDA Lock-Up fundraiser. They will enjoy a complimentary lunch while attempting to raise at least $1,600 for MDA, the cost of sending two children to MDA Summer Camp in Kenosha County.

Reagan Imhoff, the 2011 Wisconsin Goodwill Ambassador will visit the Lock-Up from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Reagan, 6, has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and will be attending Summer Camp for the first time June 12-17 at Camp Lake this year.     

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.

For more information about our Lock-Up, donations and other MDA activities in Wisconsin, please contact MDA at (262) 432-7992.

Greenfield Fire Fighters Give Neuromuscular Disease the Boot

MDA Goodwill Ambassador Jacob Smith, 10, helped the Greenfield Fire Fighters collect over $30,000 last year and will be visiting the intersection of 76th and Layton during the June 9 collection to help the department meet their goal of $35,000.

GREENFIELD, Wis., June 2, 2011—Greenfield Fire Fighters Local #1963 hope to raise over $35,000 during their annual street side collection for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

                        

The fire fighters will remove their boots to collect money from motorists and pedestrians June 8-10 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the intersection of Layton Ave. and 76^th St.

All donations will benefit local MDA clients and services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Camp Lake, funding clinic visits at Froedtert Memorial Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, and financing wheelchair repairs.

The department raised over $30,000 last year and hopes to surpass that during this year’s collection. Jacob Smith, the 2011 Southeastern Wisconsin Goodwill Ambassador will visit the fire fighters during the June 9 collection. Smith, 10, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, will be attending Summer Camp in Camp Lake this year.     

MDA’s Fill-the-Boot program is supported by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) and non-union fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin fire fighters raised $600,000 for MDA.

The tradition began in 1952, when a father in desperate need ran to IAFF member George Graney’s Fire Engine Company 1 in South Boston.  IAFF Local 718 immediately rounded up 20 fire fighters and set in motion a door-to-door canister drive that raised $5,000.

Realizing the potential that fire fighters had to offer the cause and their excellent image in the community, Graney approached and persuaded other IAFF members to support MDA.  In August 1954, IAFF named MDA as their “charity of choice” and their signature fundraising activity has been the MDA Fill-the-Boot drive.  The IAFF has emerged as the single-largest sponsor of MDA, contributing nearly $300 million since 1954 – all to benefit Jerry’s kids.  

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (262) 432-7992.                 

Thousands Expected to Ride Throughout Wisconsin for MDA

GREEN BAY and JANESVILLE, Wis., June 1, 2011— Thousands of Wisconsin motorcyclists are expected to rally together at two rides this month to benefit local Muscular Dystrophy Association clients.

The Packerland Ride departs at 12 p.m. Saturday, June 4 from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), 2740 West Mason St., Green Bay. Festivities include a 60-mile scenic ride ending at Doc’s Harley-Davidson in Shawano County, W2709 State Highway 29, Bonduel, raffle, auctions, food and entertainment.

The ride, which was organized by the Wolf River Harley Owners Group Chapter, is expected to attract hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts. Registration is $20 and runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, June 3 at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and at Doc’s Harley Davidson of Shawano County. Registration continues Saturday, June 4 at NWTC from 9-11:30 a.m..

All proceeds of the Packerland Ride benefit local clients of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and help finance clinic visits at Prevea Clinic in Green Bay, support groups, and a weeklong stay at MDA Summer Camp in Green Lake, Wisconsin. 

The 17^th Annual Tub Run departs from Kutter Harley-Davidson, 3223 N. Pontiac Drive, Janesville, at 12 p.m. sharp Saturday, June 18. Post-ride entertainment includes live music, bike games, silent auction and a steak dinner at Thresherman’s Park Hwy 51 North, Edgerton.

Festivities begin Friday, June 17 at Kutter Harley-Davidson with a $15 Poker Run at 3 p.m., and continue at Thresherman’s Park with a pork barbeque, live music by the Back Alley Band and free overnight camping. The last bikes are allowed in at 9 p.m..

Registration is $25 per rider Friday, June 17 from 1-7 p.m. and Saturday, June 18 from 9-11 a.m.. However, riders can waive the registration fee and become “Pledge Riders.” Riders who raise more than $100 receive a 2011 MDA Tub Run Pin, T-shirt and Steak Dinner at Thresherman’s Park. For every $100 raised, riders will be entered into a raffle to win a 2011 Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster. 

Pledge Riders who raise over $1000 have the unique opportunity to support local ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) patient, Cal Niemeier. Niemeier, who was diagnosed with ALS last year, is a longtime supporter of the Tub Run. Since its inception, he lead the Tub Run, carrying the American flag on his motorcycle. “Cal’s Pals,” Pledge Riders who raise more than $1000, will receive a commemorative red hat similar Niemeier’s and lead the race with Niemeier.

The top overall pledge rider will win a four-day trip for two to Las Vegas to see the MDA Telethon.

Participants can sign up to become a pledge rider at http://www.joinmda.org/tubrun2011. 

All proceeds of the Tub Run benefit local clients of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and help finance clinic visits at UW Health, support groups, and a weeklong stay at MDA Summer Camp in Camp Lake, Wisconsin. 

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education. To volunteer or for more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (800) 572-1717.

Nearly 40 Campers Head To MDA Summer Camp in Green Lake, Wisconsin

GREEN LAKE, Wis., May 31, 2011—It’s that time of the year again! The Muscular Dystrophy Association welcomes 38 campers from northern Wisconsin and over 70 volunteers to the annual MDA Summer Camp at The Pilgrim Center Camp in Green Lake, June 12-17.

MDA Summer Camp is a memorable, weeklong experience at Green Lake for children affected by neuromuscular disease. Camp activities include arts and crafts projects, sports and fishing, which are adapted for youths between the ages of six and 17 with neuromuscular disease. Each camper is accompanied by a volunteer counselor to ensure that exceptional needs are met at all times.

The theme of this year’s Summer Camp is “Roadtrip Wisconsin”. Each day of camp features a different activity, including an Oneida Indian Ceremonial dance presentation, a picnic with local fire fighters, a Wisconsin sports themed dance, and visits from a scientist and the FBI. Harley Day, one of the most popular Summer Camp events, is Wednesday, June 15. Area motorcyclists will visit camp and offer sidecar rides to the campers.

Summer Camp is one of MDA’s many programs made possible through generous corporate and public donations. It costs $800 to send one child to camp for one week. The generosity of local communities enables these children and young adults to experience a wide range of activities specially designed for those with limited mobility at no cost to their families. For more information or to donate to MDA Summer Camp, contact Carolynne Younk at (920) 499-4571.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education. For more information about Summer Camp and other local MDA activities, please contact MDA at (800) 572-1717.

Milwaukee Fire Fighters Remove Boots For MDA

MILWAUKEE, Wis., June 1, 2011—Milwaukee County and South Milwaukee fire fighters will go beyond the call of duty this week when they join the battle against neuromuscular disease.

The fire fighters will use their boots to collect money from motorists and pedestrians for the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s annual Fill the Boot fundraiser. Milwaukee County Local #1072 will be on the streets June 3 and June 10 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at the intersection of Layton Ave. and Howard Ave.. South Milwaukee Local #1633 will collect June 3 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the intersection of Rawson Ave. and Nicholson Ave.

The Milwaukee County and South Milwaukee fire departments hope to raise $7,500 and $5,000, respectively. All donations will benefit local MDA clients and services like sending children and young adults to MDA Summer Camp in Camp Lake, funding clinic visits at Froedtert Memorial Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, and financing wheelchair repairs.

MDA’s Fill-the-Boot program is supported by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) and non-union fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin fire fighters raised $600,000 for MDA.

The tradition began in 1952, when a father in desperate need ran to IAFF member George Graney’s Fire Engine Company 1 in South Boston.  IAFF Local 718 immediately rounded up 20 fire fighters and set in motion a door-to-door canister drive that raised $5,000.

Realizing the potential that fire fighters had to offer the cause and their excellent image in the community, Graney approached and persuaded other IAFF members to support MDA.  In August 1954, IAFF named MDA as their “charity of choice” and their signature fundraising activity has been the MDA Fill-the-Boot drive.  The IAFF has emerged as the single-largest sponsor of MDA, contributing nearly $300 million since 1954 – all to benefit Jerry’s kids.  

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat 43 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health education.  For more information about MDA’s programs and services, call (262) 432-7992.