MDA and IAFF Expand ALS Focus in 400+ Fill the Boot Fundraisers — Muscular Dystrophy Association, Inc.

Event summary

MDA and IAFF launch 400+ Fill the Boot fundraisers across 40 states over Labor Day weekend 2026.
Campaign raises funds for ALS research, care, and advocacy, with a focus on fire fighters' increased ALS risk.
MDA Strong campaign celebrates collective strength in fighting neuromuscular diseases throughout September.
IAFF members have raised over $720 million for MDA since 1954.
MDA recruits fire fighters with ALS for Champion Insights Study to understand disease progression.

The big picture

The MDA-IAFF partnership leverages a 72-year history to tackle ALS research with renewed urgency, capitalizing on growing awareness of occupational risks for fire fighters. With over 30 FDA-approved treatments for neuromuscular diseases in the past decade, the campaign aligns with broader industry momentum in therapeutic advancements. The strategic focus on fire fighters' ALS risk underscores a targeted approach to high-impact research and advocacy.

What we're watching

Research Impact: How MDA's expanded ALS focus will accelerate breakthroughs in understanding fire fighters' increased risk.
Fundraising Momentum: Whether the 400+ Fill the Boot events can sustain the $720 million raised over 72 years.
Advocacy Scale: The pace at which MDA Strong campaign can amplify awareness and support for neuromuscular diseases.