During Volunteer Appreciation Week, ALS United Mid-Atlantic honors the volunteers who make our work possible. From supporting office operations and helping at community events to providing personal companionship for people living with ALS (PALS), volunteers bring time, energy, and heart to our mission every day.
Event Volunteers Make Our Signature Fundraisers Possible
Our event volunteers are essential to the success of our major fundraising events, including the ALS United Walk, ALS United Ride, Help & Hope Symposium, and Annual Celebration. Volunteers register participants, cheer on walkers and riders, help with logistics, distribute water and supplies, and assist with setup and teardown. Their dedication ensures events run smoothly, participants feel supported, and critical funds are raised to benefit local ALS programs, research, and patient services.
For Samantha Pattinson, who lost her dad to ALS but continues to volunteer, giving back is also about carrying forward. She says, “This disease is devastating, and if I can contribute even in the smallest way, by volunteering my time at fundraising events, to support current patients or those who may be diagnosed in the future, then it’s all worth it.”
Visiting Volunteers Provide Compassion and Connection
Since 2001, our Visiting Volunteer Program has provided companionship and meaningful engagement for people living with ALS. Visiting Volunteers spend time playing games, gardening, running errands, or simply sharing conversation. Volunteers like Kelly Slipakoff, a longtime Visiting Volunteer, brighten the lives of people living with ALS through companionship, care, and shared moments of joy. Retired respiratory therapist Ginny Butler discovered fulfillment in visiting people living with ALS, rediscovering the joy of personal connection after retirement. Joy Young, whose mother passed from ALS when Joy was 18, has spent the past decade giving back to families in her community.
Many volunteers have personal connections to ALS. Gary Goldstein, who lost his wife to ALS nine years ago, says, “The connection gives us a chance to think beyond ourselves and make an impact, even through the smallest of acts.” These visits and interactions provide patients and families with comfort, companionship, and support.
Thank You to All Our Volunteers
This Volunteer Appreciation Week, we extend heartfelt gratitude to all ALS United Mid-Atlantic volunteers, whether helping at events, in the office, or visiting patients. Your dedication enables our organization to provide care, hope, and connection to those living with ALS.