Program Notes
Record Levels for MSAA Programs and Services
As the saying goes, "A rolling stone gathers no moss." Well, things were certainly rolling along this past fiscal year (July 2003 to June 2004) at MSAA, as we provided the highest volume of services, expanded with new programs, and reached more clients in more places than ever before.
Coming off an explosive spring and early summer, the MSAA Cooling Distribution Program distributed nearly 6,000 cooling items (vests, collars, and accessories) to thousands of clients in all 50 states. This is more than double last year's record distributions and more than six times the number of items distributed just two years ago.
In addition to cooling, MSAA was able to expand its level of service for individuals with MS and their care partners in all other national programs. The Helpline, staffed by the client services department, responded to or initiated a combined total of 7,215 calls, averaging 601 per month (up 58 percent); the Equipment Distribution Program distributed 3,563 pieces of equipment (up 24 percent); the MRI Institute more than tripled the number of MRI's provided through the program to almost 300; the MRI Diagnostic Program funded 47 MRI's (up 24 percent); and the Networking Program expanded to 959 participants, an increase of 45 percent. The Lending Library added more titles to its inventory and distributed 2,335 books (up 11 percent); and the Home Modification Program increased the number of home assessments, completed modifications, and states served. During this program year, 100 modifications were completed, raising the total to 400 since the program's inception in 2000.
Also during the fiscal year, MSAA implemented a new, innovative program of expanding client education. Funded by an unrestricted educational grant from Serono, Inc./Pfizer, Inc., MSAA developed the National Health Fair Program. The National Health Fairs are full-day seminars which join a small group of 20 to 30 clients and their care partners with nationally recognized health care professionals. The 10 scheduled Fairs are targeted to reach less urban areas across the United States which lack MS specialized resources. To date, the program has been extremely successful.
In addition to national programs, MSAA's network of regional offices experienced substantial growth and program expansion during the fiscal year as well. Early in the fiscal year, the new Southeast Regional Office became fully operational and worked to develop a host of programs, events, and new support groups throughout Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Each year MSAA works hard to expand its network of MS support groups.
Cumulatively, the regional offices combined to establish 36 new support groups this fiscal year. Also, they sponsored, co-sponsored, or participated in client education programs in more than 30 cities in the United States; represented MSAA to 60 separate professional organizations; staffed (along with volunteers) information tables at 46 separate public events; and hosted 57 networking and social events. Collectively, our regions have utilized 294 volunteers who have contributed 12,415 hours of service during the fiscal year.
As you can see by these accomplishments, MSAA is extremely proud of its continued growth and ability to have a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with MS and their care partners. As you may know, all MSAA programs and services are free of charge. To take full advantage of our programs and services, please contact us at (800) 532-7667 or visit our website at www.msaa.com. As we head into our new fiscal year, we look forward to meeting new challenges and bringing a higher level of service to our MS clients and their families.
Taking a Moment to Appreciate our Volunteers
In addition to the 12,415 hours of service contributed by nearly 300 volunteers at MSAA regional offices, the home office with its national programs and services also sees many volunteers who often serve for months or years at a time.
One such volunteer, Jim McManus, was with MSAA's home office three afternoons each week. He was a former United States Marine in his 40s who could no longer work full time because of a heart condition. His wife has MS and he wanted to help MSAA to fulfill its mission of serving those challenged by the disease. The work Jim performed for our Equipment Distribution Program was invaluable - processing written requests for the shipment of anything from grab bars to wheelchairs.
As with all of our volunteers, his work was greatly appreciated, and Jim was asked if MSAA could nominate him for recognition with a regional newspaper as an outstanding volunteer. He agreed with the idea that readers would learn about MS and possibly be interested in making a donation or volunteering their time. Sadly, Jim passed away in September, just as his nomination was being submitted. He will be greatly missed and our sympathy goes out to his family.
Jim was a dedicated volunteer, and his contributions along with those of many others, enable MSAA to provide the programs and services to as many people as possible. While we try to thank all of our volunteers on a daily basis, we want to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to our volunteers for the urgent help they provide. They are vital to the operation of our programs aimed at easing the day-to-day challenges of individuals with MS. - Peter Damiri
