I AM ALS unveils new campaign aimed at supporting caregivers
Peer program launching during November's National Family Caregivers Month
This November, I AM ALS, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people — both patients and family members — affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is launching a campaign focused on supporting caregivers.
The new initiative aims to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by ALS caregivers. Throughout the campaign, I AM ALS will share their experiences, provide them with essential resources, and mobilize policymakers to move on issues related to home health and caregiving.
The campaign is helping mark National Family Caregivers Month, which was created in 1977 to recognize and honor family caregivers across the U.S.
“With the number of people diagnosed with ALS projected to increase by 69% by 2040, we must prepare to support this fast-growing population of caregivers and people living with ALS,” Aditi Narayan Minkoff, vice president of community support at I AM ALS, said in a press release from the nonprofit.
The nonprofit also seeks to raise funds to continue supporting all those affected by ALS beyond November, through its 2024 Year End Campaign. Those interested can share their stories or make donations to support I AM ALS’ mission. To date, more than $21,000 has been raised toward the fundraising campaign’s $150,000 goal.
ALS caregivers can sign on for peer program as mentor or mentee
Also joining in to mark National Family Caregivers Month is the organization’s coalition Cures Collective, which was launched earlier this year to address critical unmet needs in ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. The coalition now includes more than 50 advocates and partner organizations focused on a range of neurodegenerative conditions.
With 1 in 4 Americans ages 50 and older stepping up to provide care, Cures Collective aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by caregivers of people living with these conditions.
Marking this year’s caregiver month, I AM ALS also launched a pioneering initiative to provide peer support to caregivers, families and friends, and individuals living with ALS. The Peer Support Specialist Program, billed as the first of its kind, is recruiting volunteers impacted by ALS who are trained to provide one-on-one support to others going through similar challenges.
There is no better or more impactful way for I AM ALS to scale than by using the superpower behind this movement – the very people impacted by the disease. … The transfer of knowledge between generations of people impacted by ALS is truly unique and incredibly impactful.
This national program highlights the importance of community-driven assistance. The Peer Support Specialists will be trained to provide emotional support, share valuable information, facilitate referrals, and offer guidance in navigating the challenges of ALS, among other conditions. Individuals wishing to volunteer can apply to become a mentor. People wishing to become a mentee also are welcome to apply.
“There is no better or more impactful way for I AM ALS to scale than by using the superpower behind this movement – the very people impacted by the disease,” Narayan Minkoff said. “The transfer of knowledge between generations of people impacted by ALS is truly unique and incredibly impactful.”
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