News & Stories
Delaware ALS United Walk Raises $50,000 to Support Local ALS Community
On Saturday, September 6th, the ALS United Mid-Atlantic community gathered at the Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park for the first ALS United Walk in Wilmington, Delaware. The community raised $50,000 to support people and families affected by ALS. ALS United Mid-Atlantic is incredibly grateful for the dedication and generosity of the Delaware community.
The day was filled with support, hope, and unity as walkers came together with one mission: to End ALS. U.S. Senator Chris Coons joined participants and shared remarks highlighting his commitment to ALS advocacy and the importance of continued support for research, care, and awareness.
“Today is a chance to reflect on what community means, on what hope means, and on what living and loving together means,” said Senator Coons during the Opening Ceremony.
To hear more of Senator Coons’ speech, click here.
Participants began their day by taking photos, choosing their Unity Signs, signing our ALS United Mid-Atlantic banner, and connecting with one another. The Opening Ceremony began with encouraging words from our Executive Director, Jeff Cline, who then congratulated the top fundraising teams and individuals.
Honoring Top Fundraisers
The Delaware Walk celebrated the inspiring efforts of teams and individuals who went above and beyond in their fundraising:
Top Fundraising Teams
- Team Spencer
- Yvonne’s Cure Chasers
- Team Ann Jester
Top Fundraising Individuals
- Kristine Quells
- Elizabeth Perry
- Melissa DiVincenzo
In addition, the following dedicated fundraisers were honored as members of the Champions United Club for raising $1,000 or more for the ALS mission:
- Kristine Qualls
- Elizabeth Perry
- Melissa DiVincenzo
- Neely Newcomb
- Joe Galasso
- Mark Blake
- Ann Marie Galasso
- John Gauger
After the top fundraising teams and individuals received their medals, participants made their way to the ALS United Walk Arch for the ribbon cutting to signify the start of the Walk. This year’s Delaware ALS United Walk ribbon was cut by Spencer Qualls, a member of the ALS community and the reason Team Spencer walks and raises money and awareness for ALS each year.
Once the ribbon had been cut, the Delaware ALS United Walk officially began! Participants walked through the Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, along the scenic Riverwalk following the Christina River, and ended back at the Riverfront Park where refreshments awaited.
Walking United to End ALS
The ALS United Walk brought together families, friends, and supporters for an uplifting day of remembrance, resilience, and hope. With every step, participants honored loved ones living with ALS, celebrated the memories of those lost, and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing care and research.
“The 2025 Delaware ALS United Walk was a truly wonderful day by the Riverfront! It was heartwarming to see everyone come together to honor those living with ALS and remember those we’ve lost,” expressed Kerry Braun, Director of Corporate & Community Engagement. “On behalf of everyone at ALS United Mid-Atlantic, I want to extend a huge thank you to every participant, donor, sponsor, and volunteer. Your support means the world!”
Funds raised through the Delaware ALS United Walk directly support ALS United Mid-Atlantic’s mission to provide compassionate care services, advocate for those impacted, and fuel research toward a future without ALS.
The event was proudly sponsored by ChristianaCare, Precision Garage Door Service of Delaware, and Brew HaHa.
Supporters can donate to the Delaware ALS United Walk through the end of the year. To donate, visit www.delawarealsunitedwalk.org.
To view all the photos from the Delaware ALS United Walk, click below!
About ALS United Mid-Atlantic:
Since 1977, ALS United Mid-Atlantic has worked to improve the quality of life for families impacted by ALS by investing in quality care programs, empowering patients through advocacy, and promoting groundbreaking research towards new treatments and a cure.
ALS United Mid-Atlantic serves more than 1,200 people each year and covers a service area that encompasses eastern and central Pennsylvania, southern and central New Jersey, and all of Delaware.
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