Make an Impact. Start a Fundraiser.
Driven by the passion of our volunteers—members, families, and dedicated supporters—these efforts help power every aspect of our work. Funds raised provide vital support for families, advance groundbreaking research toward cures, and raise awareness about MPS and ML across the nation.
Powering Progress Through Giving
For over 50 years, the National MPS Society has supported families through conferences, educational resources, peer connections, and critical research grants. None of this would be possible without the generosity of individuals, sponsors, and organizations like you. We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN: 11-2734849), and all donations are tax-deductible. Proudly, we’ve earned Charity Navigator’s highest Four-Star rating—recognizing our strong financial stewardship and commitment to mission-driven work.
Have questions about fundraising?
Contact Bethany Greene, Associate Director of Development, at bethany@mpssociety.org.
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Upcoming Fundraisers
Napa Race for a Cure 5K and 1-Mile Walk
Join us for a timed 5K run & walk event, beginning at 9 AM on Sunday, April 26, 2026....
Raleigh Run for Rare 5K and 1-Mile Walk
Join us for a timed 5K run & walk event, beginning at 9 AM on Saturday, March 28, 2026....
Long Beach Race for Rare 5K Run & Walk Event
Join us for a timed 5K run & walk event, beginning at 9 AM on Saturday, September 13....
50th Anniversary Masquerade Gala
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we commemorate a remarkable milestone - 50 years of hope, progress, and support - at the National MPS Society's 50th Anniversary Masquerade Gala!...
Fundraise with a Courage Page
Courage pages are a special space for families in the MPS & ML community to share their unique stories and honor their journeys. Each page provides an opportunity to raise awareness and fundraise for the programs and initiatives that mean the most to them—whether that’s advancing research, supporting families, or driving advocacy. By creating a Courage page, families help inspire hope, connection, and progress for everyone affected by MPS and ML.
Create Your Own Courage Page
Share your journey in your own words and your own time — with photos, videos, poems, and updates that bring your experience to life. Your story can help others understand the realities of rare disease while shining a light for families on a similar path.
To create a Courage page or update an existing one, please contact Amber Adams at amber@mpssociety.org.
Meet Some of Our Families
2025 Annual Fund
“Empowering change, one gift at a time” isn’t just a theme—it’s a promise.
We’ve seen firsthand how a single act of generosity can spark lasting impact. Every gift to the National MPS Society helps drive research, support families, and build a future filled with hope. Together, we are empowering change—one act of compassion, one donation, one life at a time.
Why is the National MPS Society asking for donations to the Annual Fund?
The National MPS Society is dedicated to advancing fundraising and advocacy with passion and purpose, inspired by the strength and resilience of the MPS and ML community. This commitment drives our efforts to support families, accelerate research, and amplify the voices of those affected by these rare diseases.
With more than five decades of successful leadership, the Society and its team guides the Annual Fund with empathy, energy, and strategic vision. These efforts ensure that critical programs—research, family support, and advocacy—remain strong and well-funded. Each gift to the Society is a step toward progress and a tribute to the courageous families at the heart of our mission.
What is the Annual Fund?
The Annual Fund is how the Society invites our family and friends to help support the core funding for our most important programs.
How is my gift used?
Your gift supports an array of programs that directly benefit members and their families, including conference & travel grants, educational scholarships, durable medical goods, educational resources, research funding, family support services, legislative advocacy, bereavement programs, and more!
Create a Lasting Legacy
Planned gifts ensure the National MPS Society can continue supporting families and advancing research for generations to come. By incorporating charitable giving into your estate, financial, or tax planning, you can make a meaningful impact well into the future.
Ways to Give
You can choose from a variety of planned giving options, including:
- Estate gifts – include the Society in your will or living trust
- Gifts of real estate or land
- Gifts of appreciated stocks or other assets
Explore Planned Giving Resources
Learn more about:
Get Started
Planned giving starts with a conversation about your goals. Speak with your attorney, accountant, or financial advisor, then connect with us to discuss how your gift can create lasting change.
Double Your Impact with Matching Gifts
Many donors utilize their company’s Matching Gift program to double their donation to the National MPS Society! Check with your human resources department to learn about your company’s policy on matching gifts.
The National MPS Society is currently receiving matching gifts from the following companies:
FAQ
Where do you start?
The Society has comprehensive resources for hosting various types of fundraising events. Contact the Development team at the National MPS Society to get started, email amy@mpssociety.org or call (919) 806-0101 to begin discussing your ideas.
Decide on the type of fundraising event you would like to host!
Typically, events fall into two categories: walks and runs, or do-it-yourself fundraisers. Almost anything can be turned into a fundraiser! Check out our do-it-yourself one-page guides on ideas for different types of events.
How do I pick the right fundraiser for me?
Choose something that you are passionate about doing! If you are a runner – a race may be a great option. If you and your family love to bowl, or bake, or play bingo, create an event around that activity. The best fundraising event is something you can whole-heartedly commit to, so choose something you enjoy. Things to consider:
- Think about who you want to attend and why.
- Know what you want to accomplish from the event.
- Consider how the local press will cover such an event.
- Complete a budget and be realistic.
What happens to the money I raise?
The National MPS Society allows fundraisers to decide what their money is designated for. Choose from the following options:
- Where needed most (unrestricted)
- Family Support Programs
- Syndrome Specific Research
Individuals that raise over $25,000 can participate in our medical directed research program. Call our office to learn more!
Will the Society help defray upfront costs for my event
The National MPS Society will reimburse up to 25% of expenses associated with a Society-sponsored event. Contact the Development team to discuss all logistics around event reimbursement. It is important to note that family fundraisers may not exceed 25% of expenses.
Where are events held?
Venue costs vary and should be carefully considered when budgeting for your event. It is not realistic to make a large amount of money in your first year, so keep this in mind when you are planning for expenses. Be sure to have multiple venue options and site visits to make an informed decision. Things to consider when choosing a venue:
- Number of people attending
- Cost per person
- Coverage from the media
- Number of volunteers involved
- Amount of money raised
How do individuals register for an event?
The National MPS Society can set up a registration page for your event through our website.
How do I accept donations and registration fees?
If you are using our online registration platform, Classy, payments will process through the portal. Other donations and fees are accepted through:
- Our Website
- Paypal
- Square
- Cheque
- Cash
- MobileCause
What is MobileCause? Do you offer a “text to give” option?
Yes! MobileCause is a text to give platform. This can be enabled for any event, easily allowing your participants to donate from the convenience of their cell phone.
How does an event make money?
Family Fundraisers at the National MPS Society are individual fundraising and sponsor events – not pledge events. This means that participants are asked to donate themselves and obtain sponsor funds in advance to be turned in on the day of the event. The Society has template families can use to approach local business sponsors. Participants in an event will donate or pay to bowl or golf or purchase a ticket for a concert. In addition, participants may donate a raffle item or a silent auction item just like a business sponsor might.
Do we attract national sponsors?
Yes, we have attracted several national sponsors each year. They are not all-inclusive for each event. Ask for corporate donations, but always remember your local businesses too! Many of your local businesses sponsor charitable events. Consider making a presentation to the Chamber of Commerce or a Rotary Club in your neighboring towns and it might light an ignition.
Will my event receive t-shirts?
Refer to our t-shirt policy form for information on which events receive shirts. The National MPS Society provides t-shirts with the current walk/run or fundraising logo on the front. Several people use t-shirt space as an incentive for sponsors. Different dollar amounts can correspond to different logo sizes and placement on the shirts.
Every event is different!
Think creatively and the organization will be rewarding and fun! All events are unique, allow yours to represent you and your family. The key to a good event is organization, promotion, and keeping costs low. Let this be fun and engaging!
What happens after an event?
After your event has concluded, be sure to reconcile expenses and send donations to the National MPS Society office. Include the following information:
- Photos and stories from your event!
Also be sure to thank your donors and sponsors! A handwritten note goes a long way – especially if this is a reoccurring event. Reach out to a member of the Development team to have a wrap up conversation regarding event logistics!
Ready to Fundraise?
Whether it’s a 5K, a birthday campaign, or a creative idea of your own, your efforts help provide support and resources for the MPS and ML community.