2024 Gratitude Report: Special Events Spotlight

This story was inspired by our 2024 Gratitude Report. Download the full report to learn more about our work.

It’s because of peer-to-peer fundraising events like Walk ALS, Ski ALS, Beers and Gears, Drive Fore ALS and the annual ALS Gala and Auction that ALS Northwest can provide crucial care services while advancing research and public policy every year.

---

Holly Miller, Development Director of Special Events and Corporate Relations, reflects on the success of our 2024 events, through which we were able to provide care services to 492 people living with ALS:

2024 was an especially impactful year with our annual fundraising events. People came out rain or shine and we witnessed an increase not only in event attendance, but also in overall funds raised – in fact, we saw a 31% overall increase from 2023! 

One event that really stood out to me was the Ski ALS. We all felt the bright energy infused into this event thanks to Meghan Kahn, a person living with ALS, and her dedicated team of supporters. This energy carried over into 2025 as more people living with ALS participated than ever, with the ability to use sit-skis thanks to our partnership with Oregon Adaptive Sports.

I’m proud of my events team for working so hard to make all the 2024 events not only powerful agents for change in the lives of people living with ALS, but also meaningful ways to come together as a community. Connection is our superpower, and my team leaned in with arms wide open. For example, at our six regional Walks, we introduced local, region-specific food carts that provide both nourishment and deeper union with every region in our service area of Oregon and SW Washington.  

The weather didn’t always cooperate, but that didn’t stop this dedicated community from showing up. One person’s story at a Walk really stuck with me. They shared, “My grandma has ALS. The least I can do is walk in the rain.” I’m constantly inspired by this community’s depth of care, passion and commitment to the mission. 

But the work doesn’t stop here. Peer-to-peer fundraising is at the root of our services, funding everything we do. It’s crucial that we reach as many people as we can, not only to raise vital funds to continue providing services like medical equipment, home visits and direct financial assistance but also to increase awareness about our cause. You might know ALS, but do your friends and family? Building this network of awareness drives research, care services and public policy advocacy to create a higher quality of life for people living with ALS and ultimately an end to this devastating disease. 

Don’t miss out on next year’s events – sign up for event-specific emails to make sure you have access to 2026 registration!