Dr. Donald S. Wood, MDA President and CEO.

A message from Donald S. Wood, PhD, President and CEO

Leading the way as the #1 Voluntary Health Organization for people living with neuromuscular diseases for over 70 years, at MDA volunteers are at the forefront of our legacy. Families are at the heart of our mission, and we couldn't fulfill our mission without the volunteers who work tirelessly to support the neuromuscular disease community in so many ways. That is why we have proclaimed 2023 The Year of the Volunteer.

Learn more and become an MDA volunteer knowing that you are strengthening our mission and expanding our reach.

Mission Statement

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases. For over 70 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of our families. 

MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives.

  • Innovations in Science

    We are accelerating the delivery of treatments and cures.

    Explore the Science
  • Innovations in Care

    We provide services that help people affected by neuromuscular disease.

    Experience the Care

The freedom to walk, to talk, to run and play. To laugh, to hug, to eat — even breathe.

Each day these freedoms are taken away from kids and adults with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases that weaken muscle strength and limit mobility. Together we can change that.

About Neuromuscular Diseases

Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved with MDA. Whether you’re looking to create a fundraiser, host a game night, volunteer at a camp, run a marathon, or advocate for the cause, the ways to get involved are endless.

Ways to Get Involved

Upcoming Events

Jun 22, 2023
Go Yard with Rhys Hoskins for MDA
Jun 24, 2023 to Jun 25, 2023
Jun 29, 2023
See More Events

Press Releases

Philadelphia Phillies' Rhys Hoskins to host Xfinity Presents "Go Yard" to Benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association
Muscular Dystrophy Association Celebrates Lou Gehrig Day at Major League Baseball Games in May and June to Raise Awareness for ALS
MDA Tribute Tour Visits Washington D.C. for Nationals vs. Phillies, honoring Chairman and Board Member of The Lou Gehrig Society and former...
38th Annual Golf Classic Raises More than $514,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association
See Recent News

Meet Our Partners

These partners are transforming lives through science and care for MDA families.

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Meet Them All

Join Us

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MDA Resource Center: We’re Here For You

Our trained specialists are here to provide one-on-one support for every part of your journey. Send a message below or call us at 1-833-ASK-MDA1 (1-833-275-6321). If you live outside the U.S., we may be able to connect you to muscular dystrophy groups in your area, but MDA programs are only available in the U.S.

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