Frequently Asked Questions
The Greater San Diego Chapter is legally separating from the ALS Association, joining 15 other prominent former chapters that represent approximately half of the ALS patient population and Certified Treatment Centers and ALS Clinics in the nation.
In July 2021, the national Board of Trustees of the ALS Association voted to begin a process of merging 34 independent chapters across the country into a single organization headquartered in Arlington, VA. That vote effectively called for the elimination of independent chapters like ours. At that time, 15 of the most successful chapters initiated legal action that resulted in the preservation of local independence this past fall.
Initially, the Greater San Diego Board of Directors agreed to a trial period to determine if the unification process would indeed be the best model of care for those living with ALS in our community. Ultimately, it was determined that maintaining independence was the best way to fulfill the needs of local persons and their families living with ALS and relying on us for a range of services and support.
In light of this, the Board voted to rename our organization ALS San Diego, to best represent our community and our commitment to provide local services to all people impacted by ALS.
Yes! The impact on our chapter is positive. ALS San Diego is maintaining its independence to ensure access to the highest standards of care and continuity of care for those diagnosed with ALS. As the most effective ALS organizations in our community serving over 200 people diagnosed with ALS, as well as caregivers and loved ones, we will leverage our expertise and relationships to offer robust community-based care services. We will continue to care, listen and move to action for all of those impacted by ALS in the Greater San Diego community just as we have for the past 22 years.
ALS San Diego is committed to helping people live longer and better with ALS by providing comprehensive, customized, multidisciplinary community-based care at no cost to the ALS community. Our services are designed to meet essential care needs for the person diagnosed with ALS, as well as the caregivers. Every person will continue to have access to our programs, including our equipment loan program featuring both medical equipment and communication devices, our support groups, resources for children and families, bereavement support services and educational programs. We will continue to support our local ALS Clinics and Certified Treatment Centers of Excellence, and opportunities to participate in important advocacy activities and research initiatives.
We are thrilled to continue many of the long-held traditions, such as our annual walk, while also building and creating new events to include our ALS community. Our local ALS San Diego staff and volunteers will continue to create memorable opportunities to gather together to raise awareness and funds to propel our mission forward. If you are interested in getting involved in our local committees or are interested in hosting an event of your own, please contact our team at info@alssandiego.org.
Your generosity to ALS San Diego will continue to support our local, San Diego-based activities and service delivery improving the lives of those impacted by ALS. We are proud to say that what is raised here in San Diego, stays here in San Diego making an immediate impact on the ALS community. With oversight from our dedicated Board of Directors, you can be assured that your gift is well deployed for the purpose intended. Your generosity ensures access to comprehensive, expert care services for more than 200 people living with ALS and their loved ones, at no charge.
To ensure that your financial support benefits San Diego, please note that our organization’s Tax ID Number remains 04-3651272. This number will remain our Tax ID Number going forward as it has for the past 22 years.
If you have feedback or questions, we invite you to email info@alssandiego.org and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.