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

Oct 5, 2023
Oct 7, 2023
MDA Community Event: West Virginia Fishing Derby
Oct 13, 2023 to Oct 15, 2023
See More Events

Press Releases

Muscular Dystrophy Association Celebrates FDA Approval of Amicus Therapeutics' Pombiliti + Opfolda for Treatment of Pompe Disease
Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces Research Grants Totaling $8.4 Million
Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces National Ambassador to Walk in 2023 New York Fashion Week
Leah Zelaya, MDA's 2023 National Ambassador, will be seen walking the runway during NYFW for the Runway of Dreams™ Foundation sporting Kohl...
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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