Chapter President
National Multiple Sclerosis Society,
North Florida Chapter
Mission
Our mission is to mobilize people and resources, to drive research for a cure, and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS.
Serving Jacksonville
The local chapter was founded in 1973 and our office is located in Jacksonville.
Those served
We serve 18,000 individuals living with and affected by MS in 34 counties in North Florida. We fund research to stop MS in its tracks, restore the function that’s been lost, and end MS forever. Locally, we offer financial assistance, educational workshops, referrals and peer support.
Biggest challenge
As the new leader of a well-established organization, my biggest challenge is to accelerate growth and innovation so that we can continue to meet the changing needs of our clients and donors. Events such as Mud Run MS and our new individual giving campaign, the Golden Circle, have helped us diversify our traditional income streams and attract new donors. Our programs and services are evolving to focus more on individuals with MS in rural communities, and those most severely impacted by the disease.
Biggest satisfaction
I love that the fun events and impactful services we provide engage such a passionate group of people so enthusiastic to join the movement.
Hometown
Jacksonville.
First experience with community service
I organized the first Earth Day held at St. Paul’s Riverside when I was in the 7th grade. Although the impact of my efforts may not have noticeably changed the world, it gave me a sense of the passion that is sparked when a community rallies around a common goal.
Your job before the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
I’ve been lucky enough to serve at the society my entire career, so I have to go back to my college days. While attending Florida State University, I worked in the Clerk’s Office for the Florida House of Representatives, where I ran the voting machine and read the bills into the official record. It was thrilling to be a part of Florida history every day.
Upcoming events
March 26: Mud Run MS Jacksonville, a 10K military-style obstacle course made of mud, at the Taye Brown Regional Sports Complex. Registration is $60 and there is a $100 minimum fundraising pledge.
April 2: Walk MS in St. Augustine. Free to register and no minimum pledge.
April 9: Walk MS in Orange Park. Free to register and no minimum pledge.
April 16: Walk MS in Jacksonville. Free to register and no minimum pledge.
Participants and volunteers are needed for all of our events.
Contact information
www.nationalMSsociety.org/FLN
[email protected]
332-6810