ALS Network Launches Tribute Fund to Honor Late Advocate Steve Ellis

Event summary

  • ALS Network launched the Big Smoke Tribute Fund on May 7, 2026, honoring Steve Ellis, who passed away from ALS.
  • The fund supports ALS Network's free care services program for patients.
  • Steve Ellis was diagnosed with ALS in 2023 and publicly shared his journey to raise awareness.
  • Scean Ellis, Steve's wife, now serves on the ALS Network Board of Directors.
  • The announcement coincides with ALS Awareness Month, observed annually in May.

The big picture

The tribute fund launch reflects a strategic pivot toward leveraging personal legacies to drive fundraising and awareness in the ALS community. This aligns with broader nonprofit trends of deepening donor engagement through emotional storytelling. The involvement of family members in governance and advocacy suggests a long-term commitment to sustaining Steve Ellis's impact on ALS care and research.

What we're watching

Fundraising Momentum
Whether the Big Smoke Tribute Fund can sustain significant contributions beyond ALS Awareness Month.
Governance Impact
How Scean Ellis's role on the ALS Network Board of Directors will influence strategic direction.
Community Engagement
The pace at which the Los Angeles Walk & Roll to Cure ALS expands its participant base.