What is the MS Walk and Why is it Important?
The MS Walk is an annual fundraising walk organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to raise money for MS research, advocacy, programs, and services. Walks are held in over 600 communities nationwide each year.
The MS Walk brings together people living with MS, their friends, family, caregivers, healthcare providers and other community members. Walk teams raise funds through donations that go towards the shared goal of creating a world free of MS. The events raise awareness, hope and connection.
Supporting the MS Cause
Money raised through the MS Walk provides vital support for:
- Research into the causes of MS and searches for treatments and a cure
- Programs and services for people living with MS such as support groups, educational resources and access to healthcare
- Advocacy efforts to improve policies and access to treatment
- Raising public awareness and understanding of MS
Every step taken and dollar raised through the MS Walk brings us closer to a world free of multiple sclerosis.
The MS Walk Boston
The National MS Society, Massachusetts-Rhode Island Chapter has hosted an annual MS Walk in Boston for over two decades. The MS Walk Boston takes place each spring along the Charles River Esplanade.
Who Participates?
The MS Walk Boston draws over 9,000 participants each year including:
- People living with MS
- Family and friends of people with MS
- Healthcare providers
- Volunteers
- Corporate and community teams
- Student groups
- Donors
Growing Each Year
The MS Walk Boston has experienced incredible growth over its history. The first walk in 1991 had only 1200 participants and raised $150,000. By 2022, the event drew over 9,000 walkers and raised an impressive $1.8 million to support local programs and MS research.
This inspiring community event keeps getting bigger, raising more funds, and driving us closer to a world free of MS.
Event Highlights
Highlights of the MS Walk Boston include:
- Kick-off ceremony - The event starts off with an energizing opening ceremony featuring speakers, music and recognition of top fundraising teams.
- Route options - Participants can choose from a 1-mile, 3-mile or 5-mile route along the scenic Charles River Esplanade.
- Rest stops - Cheering volunteers staff rest stops along the routes with snacks, water and encouragement.
- Hope Fest - After the walk, participants can enjoy the fun, family-friendly Hope Fest with games, music, prizes and more.
Walkers also enjoy the inspiration of being part of a passionate community united to create a world free of MS.
Forming a Walk Team
The best way to participate in the MS Walk Boston is to form a team. Walk teams often bring together family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and other community members.
Benefits of Walking With a Team
Some benefits of being part of a team include:- Raising more funds by combining efforts
- Increasing awareness as you recruit members
- Having fun and camaraderie on walk day
- Compete for team prizes and awards
- Make a bigger impact together
Tips for Team Captains
Successful team captains:- Set a fundraising goal for the team
- Recruit energetic team members through social media, email, posters and word of mouth
- Ask people for donations towards your team goal
- Schedule creative fundraisers like bake sales or car washes
- Share updates and stories to inspire your team
- Thank all donors and team members
Being a team captain takes leadership but is rewarding and fun. Your efforts will make a difference!
Preparing for Walk Day
Getting ready for the big event takes some planning and preparation:
Fundraising Tips
- Set an individual fundraising goal and share it on your page
- Email friends and family asking for donations
- Post fundraising appeals on social media
- Hold creative fundraisers like bake sales or raffles
- Ask your company about matching gifts
- Keep thanking donors and updating your progress
Training Tips
- Start training weeks in advance to build endurance
- Take short, frequent walks adding distance over time
- Walk with friends or family for motivation
- Break in those walking shoes so they are ready
- Hydrate and eat healthy foods leading up to the walk
- Rest properly before and after training walks
- Stretch your muscles before and after
Proper preparation makes walk day more fun and successful.
The MS Walk Experience
On the day of the big event, you'll be filled with energy, inspiration and community spirit.
Arrival and Check-In
Arrive early to check-in and pick up your walker bib, swag bag and any last minute donations. Look for your team at your dedicated tents and areas. Take team photos capturing the excitement!
Opening Ceremony
The walk kicks off with a high-energy opening ceremony featuring guest speakers, recognition of top fundraisers, entertainment and more. It gets everyone motivated before heading out on the walk route.
The Walk
Then you are off! Cheer team members along the route. Stop to chat with other walkers. Take breaks at the rest stops. Soak up the amazing atmosphere and scenery along the Charles River.
Hope Fest Celebration
After completing the walk, it's time for the festive Hope Fest! Enjoy celebrating with your team over food, drinks, music and family-friendly activities.
Walking with thousands united in the cause creates lifelong memories and inspiration.
Impact of the MS Walk
The funds raised through the MS Walk Boston and other events across the country add up to make a real difference. Last year, the National MS Society directed $42 million raised through Walk MS into life-changing programs, services and research.
Advancing MS Research
Donations from the MS Walk provide crucial funding for research on MS causes, treatments, symptom management and wellness strategies. Research brings us steps closer to stopping MS.
Improving Lives Today
Funds also support free programs that help people affected by MS today such as assistance paying for medical equipment and home healthcare, support groups and educational resources.
Driving Community
The MS Walk brings together people affected by MS with a shared commitment to finding solutions. The community spirit inspires people living with MS and lets them know they are not alone.
Every dollar raised through the MS Walk Boston makes the world a little more hopeful for everyone impacted by multiple sclerosis. Together, we will end MS forever.
Join the Movement to End MS
The MS Walk Boston is so much more than a fundraising event - it's a meaningful movement. Joining the MS Walk connects you with a passionate community and allows you to make a difference in the lives of those affected by MS. You'll be filled with hope, inspired to keep putting one foot in front of the other, and empowered to create positive change together. We hope you'll lace up your shoes and walk with us!
FAQs
When and where is the MS Walk Boston held?
The MS Walk Boston takes place each spring, typically in April, along the Charles River Esplanade in Boston, Massachusetts.
Who can participate in the MS Walk?
Anyone can join! People with MS, friends, family, coworkers, students, volunteers, and community members are all welcome to participate.
How long are the MS Walk routes?
There are route options of 1 mile, 3 miles or 5 miles. Participants can choose the distance that fits their abilities and fitness level.
How do I sign up for the MS Walk Boston?
Visit walkMS.org to register as an individual or to start a team. You can set up a fundraising page and invite friends to join your team.
What should I do to prepare for the MS Walk?
Start training by taking regular walks. Fundraise online and in your community. Buy a good pair of walking shoes. Gather friends and family to walk together. Get pumped up to have fun!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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