annual report fy2011-2012

2011-2012 PROGRESS REPORTNATIONAL MS SOCIETY, PACIFIC SOUTH COAST CHAPTER

AS INDIVIDUALS, OUR CONTRIBUTIONS ARE MANY. TOGETHER, WE’RE KEEPING

A SHARED PROMISE.

The National MS Society is a collective of passionate individuals who want to do something about MS now – to move together toward a world free of MS. MS stops people from moving. We exist to make sure it doesn’t.

Last year the Society embraced the Strategic Response: 2011–15, a bold and urgent five-year plan reflecting the hopes, concerns and expectations of people with MS. Nearly 10,000 individuals from all walks of life — including more than 7,000 people with MS — helped shape this plan and what we must do together to achieve it.

We are on the ground and running. Not only were significant strides made in 2012, we increased our focus on:

• better addressing the needs of everyone living with MS, including people severely impacted by the disease

• increasing the number of MS researchers and clinicians

• supporting more research than ever before, including seeking solutions regarding progressive MS.

“A Shared Promise” describes so many important things about the MS movement, about all of us individually and collectively -- our attitude, who we are and what we stand for, and what we’re really all about: doing what it takes to achieve a world free of MS. As individuals, our contributions are many. Together, we are keeping A Shared Promise.

Sincerely,

Richard V. Israel Chapter President

Chris Serocke Board of Trustees, Chair

WELCOME

A SHARED PROMISE: 2011-2012 PROGRESS REPORT 1

LOCALLY, THE PACIFIC SOUTH COAST CHAPTER PROVIDES PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

DESIGNED TO HELP THE 45,500 PEOPLE AND FAMILIES

AFFECTED BY MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS IN SAN DIEGO, ORANGE, AND IMPERIAL

COUNTIES. OVER $3 MILLION IS CURRENTLY INVESTED IN MS

RESEARCH IN OUR AREA.

WE ARE SOCIAL

Connect with us and other people affected by MS online:

• facebook.com/MSpacific

• youtube.com/MSpacific

• twitter.com/MSPSC

WE ARE HERE

Make sure you receive the most up-to-date information from the chapter. Whether you want to receive MS research updates, or want to receive the digital version of the MSConnection, we'll communicate with you the way you want. Email [email protected] be added to our ecommunications list.

WE ARE MOBILE

Use your smartphone’s quick response (QR) code reader application to scan codes throughout this progress report to learn more about subjects we cover. We can't fit everything into this booklet, but the world wide web is our oyster!

Don’t have a QR code reader application?

A free QR code reader can be downloaded from your marketplace or app store. You can also text PROMISE to 68686 to receive ongoing Society breaking news via text message.

GET CONNECTED

JOIN THE MS COMMUNITY

Do you have questions? Do you want to share your experience as a caregiver, person living with MS, fundraiser or volunteer? Join the MS community at MSconnection.org. There, you can start a blog (and read other people's blogs too), learn about Society news, and create online peer connections. MS kills connection, connection kills MS.

2 A SHARED PROMISE: 2011-2012 PROGRESS REPORT

WE ARE A DRIVING FORCE OF MS RESEARCH AND TREATMENT TO STOP DISEASE PROGRESSION, RESTORE FUNCTION, AND END MS FOREVER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05

WE DEVELOP, DELIVER, AND LEVERAGE RESOURCES TO ENHANCE CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH MS AND QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL THOSE AFFECTED BY THE DISEASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07

WE ARE LEADERS IN THE WORLDWIDE MS MOVEMENT, MOBILIZING MILLIONS OF PEOPLE TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT MS NOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09

WE ARE ACTIVISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

WE DEVELOP AND ALIGN HUMAN, BUSINESS, AND FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO ACHIEVE BREAKTHROUGH RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

ADD ITIONAL CONTENTFINANCIAL INFORMATION .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14BOARD OF TRUSTEES .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15PROGRAMS & SERVICES PROVIDED .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18MISSION POSSIBLE & GOLDEN CIRCLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22SPONSOR RECOGNITION .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

TABLE OF CONTENTS


WE ARE A DRIVING FORCE OF MS RESEARCH & TREATMENT TO STOP DISEASE PROGRESSION,

RESTORE FUNCTION, AND END MS FOREVER.


MS RESEARCHThe Society is driving MS research and care forward faster. In 2012, we:

• Invested $40 million to fund more than 325 research projects around the world, including clinical trials testing novel approaches to stop nervous system damage in people with MS; studies of adult stem cells and natural molecules that may stimulate repair of the nervous system to restore function; research on better rehabilitation strategies and treatments for symptoms; and studies on viruses, bacteria and other factors that may be involved in triggering immune attacks in people with MS, leading to clues for prevention.

• Launched the No Opportunity Wasted (NOW) campaign to raise $250 million for MS research. Hundreds of people from across the country have already become MS Research Champions, fueling the MS Research Revolution to stop, restore and end MS forever.

• Locally, nearly $3 million was invested at the Sanford Burnham Medical Research Institute, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, and the Scripps Research Institute.

• Through Fast Forward, the Society has to date partnered with 15 companies and developed strategic partnerships with other funders to speed the development of cutting-edge therapies, including early-stage neuroprotection and repair strategies, and experimental treatments for symptoms including debilitating muscle spasms.

• Established the groundwork for a new International Progressive MS Consortium to build a global effort to develop treatments for progressive forms of the disease.

• Designated three local Partners in MS Care – Centers for MS Comprehensive Care that ensure coordinated care to thousands of people living with MS. Through partnerships with other organizations and medical centers, the National MS Society has improved MS care for specialized populations including children, veterans, those with progressive disease, people from culturally diverse communities and individuals living in rural areas across the country.

READ MORE ABOUT MS RESEARCH

PROGRESS

WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT MS RESEARCH HAPPENING LOCALLY

WE DEVELOP, DELIVER, AND LEVERAGE RESOURCES

TO ENHANCE CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH MS AND

QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL THOSE AFFECTED BY THE DISEASE


PROGRAMS & SERVICESThis year, we provided in-person or virtual education to 6,500 people living with MS in Orange, San Diego, and Imperial counties. Almost 2,900 members participated in one of our programs, professionally-led support groups or physical wellness classes, or received our services. Here are some notable highlights:

• We fielded over 1,800 local requests for information and/or referrals.

• Four issues of the MSConnection, our quarterly magazine, were sent to 68,000 total recipients and more than 188,000 email recipients.

• Over $219,000 in direct assistance was provided to almost 500 people for grants for independence, modifications for homes, hand controls for cars, utility relief during the hot summer months, emergency assistance to avoid homelessness, transportation assistance, equipment assistance, and respite care.

• 60 volunteers provided over 1,400 friendly visits to people with MS who rarely leave the home or live in long-term care facilities.

• 10 health care providers started Walk MS teams, recruiting a total of 403 walkers and raising over $53,000 for the 3rd Annual Physician's Challenge.

WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT BREEA'S STORY OF

LIVING WITH MS

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES WE OFFER

WE ARE LEADERS IN A WORLDWIDE MS MOVEMENT

MOBILIZING MILLIONS OF PEOPLE TO DO SOMETHING

ABOUT MS NOW.


VOLUNTEERISMNone of the accomplishments this year could have happened as they did without the engagement of talented, hardworking, generous volunteers. The National MS Society embraces, values, and recognizes every contribution.

With the help of volunteers, we stretch our donor dollar and build a stronger organization. We partner with volunteers every day, at every level, and with every project. In 2012 alone, we had over $1.5 million in donated volunteer time. Highlights include:

• 315 individuals served as leadership volunteers, leading over 3,000 individuals serving as volunteers.

• Some 1,000 people received support by attending one of our 30 self-help groups (led by over 50 volunteers).

• The local MS Action Alert Network was activated this year, reaching out to more than 1,700 volunteers who are telling their stories to public officials.

• 21 MS Ambassadors shared personal stories to educate and inspire event participants and donors.

• We engaged nearly 15,000 walkers, cyclists, or other event participants, who advanced MS awareness and raised vital funds.

APPLY TO BE A VOLUNTEER FOR

THE CHAPTER

LEARN MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEER

OPPORTUNITIES

WE ARE ACTIVISTS.

ADVOCACYChange happens through MS activism. The National MS Society and MS activists nationwide relentlessly advocate every day for federal policies and government programs to benefit the lives of people with MS and their families. The MS California Action Network, MS Action Network and chapter’s Government Relations Committee advocate for research monies and health care rights, striving to promote public policy in the best interest of people with MS.

At the Pacific South Coast Chapter, 1,700 individuals are part of the MS Action Alert Network and 21 people living with MS are MS Ambassadors. Other highlights include:

• MS Activists advocated for passage of state legislation curbing out of pocket costs for MS therapies and other prescription drugs. They collected personal stories of community members and shared them during in-person meetings with key legislators coupled with data illustrating the ill effects of high out of pocket costs.

• Led by Chapter Board member and National MS Society Hall of Fame inductee, Nan Luke, Government Relations members fostered strong working relationships with leading MS Researchers among the region’s top Neurology Institutions toward the goal of increasing funding sources toward meritorious local MS Research.

• Secured an additional $3.8 million in MS research funding through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, bringing our total through this funding source to more than $20 million, since MS was first listed as eligible for funding in Fiscal Year 2008.

WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT BEING AN

MS ACTIVIST

LEARN MORE ABOUT BECOMING AN MS ACTIVIST


• At the federal level, secured nearly $2.5 million for the Lifespan Respite Care Program that supports family caregivers and collaborated with disability organization partners to protect Medicaid/Medi-cal from proposed cuts and harmful structural changes.

• Added members to the bipartisan Congressional MS Caucus, bringing the total number to 130 U.S. Representatives and 26 U.S. Senators.

• Engaged hundreds of healthcare professionals in our advocacy efforts to improve access to quality MS care and to help secure research funding.

WE DEVELOP & ALIGN BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO ACHIEVE

BREAKTHROUGH RESULTS.

FUNDRAISING EVENTSWe will raise $215 million by the end of 2015 to be used to create a world free of MS. Economic challenges or not, the Society's donors and fundraisers gave generously to support Society programs and services, and research to find the cause and cure for MS.

• 2,272 people cycled and raised $2,207,259 at the Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour. Participants enjoyed riding 15, 30, 100 or 150 miles over 1 or 2 days from Irvine to San Diego. The Tour was also voted the "Best Cycling Event" by readers of Competitor magazine for the fifth year.

• 530 guests helped raise $465,000 at the 26th Annual MS Dinner Auction sponsored by Pacific Wealth Management held at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort.

• In its innagural year, the MS Rockstars raised $195,719 with 58 participants competing in endurance events across the country.

• At the University of California, Irvine; LEGOLAND® California in Carlsbad; and NTC Park in San Diego, 11,609 people raised over $1.6 million for San Diego County Credit Union Walk MS.

• At the La Jolla Country Club, $155,000 was raised by 120 players at the Golf MS Invitational. Norv Turner, former head coach of the San Diego Chargers, served as the chair for the event.

• Challenge Walk MS raised $825,528 with 227 walkers and 76 crew members.

• Do It Yourself (DIY) Fundraising brought 20 new events to the chapter, raising $85,000.

LEARN MORE ABOUT EVENTS THROUGHOUT

THE YEAR


2011-2012 FINANCIALS


Research & National (38%)Management & General Fundraising (20%)

Client & Professional Services (42%)

Special Events (78%)Legacies & Bequests (7%)Membership & Contriutions (12%)Other Income (3%)

REVENUESpecial Events - $5,385,235

Legacies & Bequests - $392,975

Membership & Contributions - $690,415

Other Income- $179,778

EXPENSESResearch & National - $2,179,095

Management & General Fundraising - $1,159,475

Client & Professional Services - $2,469,218

REVENUE

EXPENSES

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

BOARD CHAIR Chris Serocke

VICE CHAIR Cynthia Perazzo

EXECUTIVE BOARD Barry Clarkson Karen Sedgwick Tyler Mark Malbon Tim Holl Justin Reckers

EMERITUS Pat Brown Bob Clark Patrick Connors Richard P. Hausman Robert Melucci Michael Smoger

ADVISORY BOARD Bill Bisch James W. Brown Gina Cunningham Daley Margery Dorsey Pam Fair Lewis R. Finkelstein Ronald L. Fowler Francie Mortenson Thomas A. Page Nancy Rossi Blake von Sprecken Jerry Sweeney Carol Webster Mrs. Alice Zamboni

TRUSTEES Ellie Barnard Dawn Beattie Phil Bresnick Jody Corey-Bloom, MD, PhD Arthur Flippin, MD Cecelia Garr Franklyn Gottbetter Jayne Hancock Rick Hausman Charlotte Hayes William Hornstein, MD Zuzana Hostomska, PhD Selina Hudgins Greg Joumas Tom Karlo Jim Kesaris Nan Luke Penny Martin Barbara Maurais Jay McCabe John G. Most Lizbeth Najm Kimberly Roush Jerry Sanders Suzanne Schulman Norv Turner Diana Twadell Eric Vann Diane Ward

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES


CALENDAR OF EVENTS


OCTOBER 2011• Family Matters Launched• Occupational/Physical Therapy Day• Knott’s Berry Farm Family Day• Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour• Moving Forward: Program for the Newly Diagnosed

NOVEMBER 2011• First of 5 Self-Employment On-Line Training Workshops• MS Dinner Auction• Turkey Delivery Program

DECEMBER 2011• Sycuan Casino Annual Family Holiday Party• Boy’s Night Out

JANUARY 2012• Annual Meeting of Members• MS Rockstars, Rock N Roll Marathon

FEBRUARY 2012• Moving Forward: Program for the Newly Diagnosed• SSDI Day• MS Family Member/Newly Diganosed (Professionally-led)

MARCH 2012• UCSD MS Symposium• MS Awareness Week• Public Policy Conference• Boys Night Out• California State Activism Day

VIEW UPCOMING EVENTS


APRIL 2012• Walk MS Carlsbad• Walk MS San Diego• West Region Teleconference Series

MAY 2012• Walk MS Irvine • Day at the Bay• Golf MS Invitational• Moving Forward: Program for the New;y Diagnosed• World MS Day• Consortium of MS Centers Annual Meeting

JUNE 2012• Boy's Night Out• When MS Progresses• SSDI Consultation Day

JULY 2012• Fountain Valley Collaborative MS Research Symposium

AUGUST 2012• Moving Forward: Program for the Newly Diagnosed

SEPTEMBER 2012• Challenge Walk MS• Boy's Night Out

JOIN THE FUN! View upcoming events at

http://calendar.MSpacific.org.

There, you'll find information about

programs and services, fundraising

events, teleconferences, and more!

CHAPTER STAR VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR Linda & Rick Milson

After a close relative was diagnosed with MS, Linda and Rick Milson wanted to help find a cure so they became volunteers and participants in the 2005 MS Challenge Walk. Now, sev-en years later, the Milson’s have become leader volunteers in the MS Movement.

Linda and Rick are the first to arrive and the last to leave at every event, organizing hundreds of volunteers at various festival sites. As a retired Fire Captain, Rick utilizes his skills as an EMT and has been instrumental in ensuring participant safety. Linda’s expertise contributes to her management of a team of volunteers who check-in thousands of participants at Walk MS events.

Not only do they provide countless volunteer hours, Linda and Rick are also incredible fundraisers. They have raised nearly $66,000 for the three-day, fifty-mile Challenge Walk over the years.

The Pacific South Coast Chapter of the National MS Society is honored to have such a hard working couple as part of our core group of leaders who strive to create a world free of MS.

VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION



SELF HELP GROUP LEADER OF THE YEAR Jim Langdon

In June of 1976, while living in New York, Jim experienced a major water skiing accident and was left with the loss of eyesight in his left eye and full loss of function on his left side. After this loss of function and mobility seemed to last

a bit too long, he saw a neurologist and, at the age of 34, found out that he had MS. Fast forward to 2001, where, at a professional-led support group, he met Mike Milne, who led a Man 2 Man group. Jim then became a co-facilitator of the Yorba Linda Self-Help Group in 2004. And, as if he wasn’t busy enough, he also co-facilitates Boy’s Night Out (our program for men affected by MS) and he played an important role in reviewing our scholarship applications. He is always happy, positive and uplifting, which helps his group members feel comfortable and at home. He sees the good in any situation and is fully-supportive of his friends with MS. In the words of his co-facilitator Denise Kish: “How blessed I am to volunteer with this wonderful man… my life is made better every day, because he is in it.”

SPECIAL EVENTS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Motorcycle Amateur Radio Club (MARC)

MARC provides assistance to our Bike MS participants all along the route and has supported the ride for 29 years! If there’s an injury, a flat tire, or an issue out on the route,

their motorcycle support ensures that we are able to respond quickly and effectively to keep our riders safe and to make sure the event runs smoothly. MARC plays an integral role in communications during event weekend. These guys are the first to get out on the road and the last to finish.

SPECIAL EVENTS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Coastal Amateur Radio Emergency Services (CARES)

C.A.R.E.S. has been supporting the Bike MS Bay to Bay Tour since its inception, 30 years ago! They have literally been with us since the beginning! They became involved because of a

fellow HAM operator who was living with MS. He brought the idea of helping the Bike Tour to the group. C.A.R.E.S. was newly formed and was looking for worthy causes where reliable communications would be a challenge. The Bike Tour proved to be just such a challenge! They also partner with us at the 3-day, 50-mile Challenge Walk with support and gear vehicles and net control services. C.A.R.E.S. draws its help each year from a dedicated group of amateur radio operators who, year after year, volunteer their vehicles, equipment and time to provide net control support to ensure the safety of our participants. When asked what their hope for the future of MS is, they told us, “That’s easy. We at C.A.R.E.S. look forward to the day when the MS events are no longer required, because MS has been conquered!”

BIKE MS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Bruce Witt

Bruce has been an enthusiastic volunteer the past 5 years and there is literally nothing he won’t do to help support our staff and chapter. He serves as a member of the Bike MS Planning Committee,

acting as the chair for the Gift In Kind Subcommittee, and he attends loads of community events to promote and recruit for Bike MS. And, even though he participates in the Bike Tour, last year, he came to our storage site to help us prep for event set-up, rode his bike over to the start line the day before to help with set-up, and showed up AFTER the event to help us break down event supplies. He also has helped to forge important relationships with corporate partners like Sports Authority, Trek Bicycles, and Penske, helping the chapter put more money towards our mission. And, as if that wasn’t enough, he regularly raises over $2,000 every year as a Top Fundraiser.


CORPORATE EXCELLENCE AWARD Pacific Ambulance

Pacific Ambulance helps the Society by providing ambulances services and medical staff for Walk MS,

Challenge Walk MS, and Bike MS. Their EMT staff scout the festival areas and routes, looking to help participants in need and always have a smile on their faces. When a problem arises, the Pacific Ambulance staff are professional and compassionate with everyone involved. They understand the personal commitment that our participants put into walking 50 miles or cycling 100. And, when they are not helping someone in need, they are there cheering everyone on.

STRATEGIC PHILANTHROPY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Dr. Tom Brown

Dr. Tom Brown is dedicated to ensuring the MS Golf Invitational is a success! As a club member of La Jolla Country Club, he sponsors the Chapter to use the course for the Invitational in addition to hosting Golf committee meetings and other small

outings throughout the year. He donates auction items and opportunities to play at the exclusive country club to both our Golf and Auction events. He has enjoyed attending the MS Golf Invitational the past two years with his daughter and helping fund our mission. We are so appreciative of everything Dr. Brown does year-round for the Strategic Philanthropy department.

MEDIA PARTNER OF THE YEAR Sam Rubin

Fourteen years ago, Sam saw a brochure for a bike ride at a store on Balboa Island, and thought the event sounded fun. He phoned the chapter, and told us he thought he could help promote the ride. He wasn't kidding. Sam is a well-known anchor for

KTLA 5 News as their entertainment reporter, and his support of Bike MS has been prevalent since he joined the ride! He and his fellow anchors have been participating in the Tour ever since. Their promotion on KTLA, plus their invovlement at the ride adds an extra flare for Bike MS participants, who are excited to see themselves on TV each morning, where KTLA offers a live feed of the event. Sam tells us the best part about participating is "meeting people who are directly impacted and serviced by the chapter. They best represent what the chapter does so well."

ORGANIZATIONAL ALLIANCE AWARD GMI

GMI helps the Society by covering all of our security needs at Bike MS, Challenge Walk MS and Walk MS. We rely on GMI to make sure our events are

safe and our monies are secure. GMI supplies security officers to patrol our events, from monitoring the check-in areas where money is coming in, to overseeing the beer gardens and event festival areas. GMI staff ranging from onsite security officers to the management are always knowledgeable, helpful and go above and beyond to meet our always changing needs. GMI also supports the Society with a Walk team called GMI – We care about MS.


PHILANTHROPIC DEDICATION AWARD Boy Scouts of America, Troop #45

John Neumeister and his troop of dedicated scouts have provided service over the past 17 years at the Sycuan Casino Annual Family Holiday Party. They became involved to support one of their troop members, who is living with MS. They help before, during and after the event, setting up tables, drink

stations and dessert stations, assisting with traffic control, serving and cleanup, as well as anything else that is needed. They are always prepared to help where needed. Scoutmaster Neumeister tells us one of his favorite memories was seeing the boys assist Santa in distributing presents to the children attending the event. Keep in mind, that some of these boys are 11 and 12 years old. They were helping Santa give presents to the kids and they had big grins on their faces. Afterwards, they couldn’t resist getting their pictures taken on Santa’s lap.

CORPORATE CHAMPION OF THE YEAR BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse

BJ’s is -- not surprisingly -- hugely popular at our Bike Tour. We’re pretty sure it’s a motivating force in getting our cyclists to ride 50 or 100 miles over 2 days. They have been supporting the chapter the past 12 years, when we approached them to join

the event as a sponsor. Alex agreed to do the event because, in his words, “the cause and the event were good ones.” A few years after they got involved, Alex’s sister was diagnosed with MS, and the Tour became a lot more personal. BJ’s not only donates all the delicious beer they bring to the event, they also donate all the revenue from the beer sales. They provide a post-event dinner to our Planning Committee, gift cards for incentives to entice our participants to raise more money, and an excellent atmosphere for everyone attending the event.

PASSION FOR THE MISSION AWARD Charlotte Freifeld

Charlotte was officially diagnosed with MS at the age of 57 in April of 2009. Through a friend who has been living with MS since 1989, Charlotte was recommended to the National MS Society and got involved with our chapter, starting by volunteering in

the office once a week in 2010. She helps by doing computer projects, making phone calls, as well as doing mailings. Charlotte tells us she likes volunteering because she knows it will be doing something different each week and helping the wonderful staff organize events, programs and services for people with MS. In the winter of 2011 Charlotte became an Angel, which helps provide companionship to individuals with MS who are in need. Every week, she visits a woman with whom she’s become close friends. Charlotte tells us, “Volunteering has enriched my life on so many levels. I have discovered new opportunities to learn about my MS, through webcams online, seminars with neurologists specializing in MS and other MS supporting organizations. I witness the dedication of the staff that provides a support system on many levels for people with MS and I see the amount of money raised that goes to research that will one day find a cure.”

CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR Sycuan Casino

Sycuan has been a dedicated corporate partner for over a decade. Over the last ten years, they have

contributed over $500,000 in corporate sponsorship and over $50,000 more, in in-kind donations. They are currently the title sponsor of the MS Golf Invitational which raises over $150,000 and the Annual Family Holiday Party, where they serve over 600 meals to families affected by MS. They have continuously stepped forward when other sponsors have cut back. In addition to all they give, Sycuan participates with a Walk team each spring. Team Sycuan averages 150 members every year!


MS AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR Gwen Rollins

It is with a heavy heart that we give this award in memoriam to Gwen Rollins. Gwen was a smart and courageous woman. She experienced mobility issues and was unable to drive, but she didn’t let this stop her! She knew the bus schedules

backwards and forwards and forged ahead. She was always one of the first ambassadors to volunteer for an event, even if it was in Orange County, although she lived in San Diego. She never let MS slow her down, and she always contributed when she was asked or needed. We will all miss Gwen and her indomitable spirit.

WELLNESS PROVIDER OF THE YEAR Waterworks Aquatics

Waterworks has been our physical wellness venue for our Aqua Program in Irvine for over 5 years. In 2012, they

offered space in thei Carlsbad location, after our Vista Aqua Class was cancelled when Bally’s became LA Fitness. They also supported our Dinner Auction by donating swim lessons. They helped bring the 1st Annual Water Walk to Orange County, where Jon said he and his staff were happy to see all of the participants involved in the event, along with seeing the passionate Water Aerobics Instructors leading the way to create such a successful event. They’ll be hosting the 2nd Annual Water Walk in Orange County this April! Waterworks shares that their hope for the future is to continue to make headway in finding more effective treatments for MS. They will continue to promote fitness through water aerobics and water therapy programs, since this is one way to help manage some of the symptoms brought on by MS.

MENTORSHIP PARTNER OF THE YEARSharon Griggs

At the recommendation of board member Cynthia Perazzo back in 2008, Sharon Griggs was recruited to provide leadership coaching for the chapter’s executive managers. What started as a commitment for six months of pro-bono professional

coaching lasted more than three years! The monetary value of Sharon’s coaching is enormous, but it pales in comparison to the intangible value of her contribution to the professional development of our chapter’s leaders. Her care and commitment has helped to successfully shape the culture of the Pacific South Coast Chapter into what it is today. Sharon’s daughter, who is here with her today, got in on the action! This senior in high school interned for the chapter last summer. Sharon, we are indebted to you and we hope to continue to make you proud!


LIFETIME COMMITMENT AWARDDr. William & Mrs. Debbie Hornstein

Dr. and Mrs. Hornstein have worked with the chapter in the Orange County area for over 25 years and have become a staple of the MS community.

Deborah Hornstein facilitates support groups for individuals with MS, is a supervisor of peer support group leaders, and volunteers as a clinical social worker at The Fountain Valley MS Center. She has also trained peer support group leaders and has been a speaker at newly diagnosed seminars. Deborah told us about a time she met a woman who was newly diagnosed with MS. She wanted to start a family, and though she was frightened of becoming a mother, Debbie was able to support her throughout the pregnancy. It was rewarding to be visited with a healthy baby, and then a second baby with later visits.

Dr. Hornstein is the founder and director of the Fountain Valley MS Center, and is the Co-Chairman of the chapter's Clinical of Advisory Committee. He also recently became a member of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Hornstein shared with us one of his favorite parts about working with people living with MS. After he finishes talking with newly-diagnosed patients, he joins other family members to sit down with the children and answer their questions; questions like “Will my Mom still be able to walk me to school?” and “Will my Dad still be able to play ball with me.” It’s in doing this that he began to really appreciate that MS not only affects people with MS, but entire families. When the children thanked him that day, it was special thanks.

Thank you Dr. and Mrs. Hornstein for demonstrating commitment, a core value of the Society, for 25 years and going!

24 2012 SOCIETY LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

MISSION POSSIBLELynn & Dick Gordon $50,934

Al Basso $49,147

Anne Allen $44,253

Drew & Brittany Brees $33,276

John & Jodi Most $32,132

Doug Peterson $31,593

Dawn Beattie $30,216

Paul Dechary $28,968

Sam & Betty Brusco $27,500

Franklyn Gottbetter $26,898

Bill & Kristi Bisch $26,075

Mary & Paul Smigliani $24,270

Rick & Melinda Hausman $24,245

Rona Kay $22,155

Chris & Joyce Serocke $19,635

Doug & Denise Regnier $15,845

Troy & Heidi Parish $15,045

Alan & Mildred Peterson $15,000

Michael Barnes $13,510

Barbara Maurais $12,560

John & Dana Hausman $12,490

Phil & Arlene Bresnick $12,300

Jack & Terry Babbitt $12,230

Cindy Roper $12,006

Tim & Leah Salmon $11,823

Matthew & Angie Matthias $11,766

Steve & Maura Malloy $11,349

Brian Grey $11,175

Mary Xavier $11,140

Daniel Abrams $11,095

Greg & Annamaria Ferree $11,083

Mark Fischer $10,950

David Lee $10,945

Gabriella Resnick $10,815

Neville & Jane Barber $10,690

Dan & Melissa Glasser $10,419

Bob & Jeanne Woodard $10,350

Glenn Arnold $10,312

Bob Moore $10,290

Jim Heaton $10,270

Jay McCabe $10,267

Dan Fischer $10,250

Kimberly Roush $10,225

Kenneth Tudhope $10,219

Matthew & Tiffany Birkett $10,170

Mark Neilson $10,150

Douglas Loreman $10,111

Javier & Doris Morgan $10,100

Maxwell Ankrom $10,027

Bryon Barnes $10,025

Carolyn Carty $10,000

Don Goodwin $10,000

Norman Kreiss $10,000

Victoria Mastrocola $10,000

Lois Mastrocola $10,000

Michael Newton $10,000

Lillian Pagano $10,000

Cynthia & Thomas Perazzo $10,000

Maggie Perez $10,000

Members of the Mission Possible Club show their commitment to the Society’s mission through extraordinary financial generosity. Each individual has made leadership gifts to the Society totaling $10,000 or more.

A SHARED PROMISE 25

GOLDEN CIRCLEThe Golden Circle is committed to the cause, care, and cure for MS, recognizing annual gifts of $1,000 or more. Created in 1993 as the chapter’s elite annual gift campaign, the Golden Circle has benefited from millions of dollars contributed by individuals, foundations and corporations which accelerate the development of more effective MS treatments, search for the cause and cure of the disease, and expand the chapter’s local programming for people with MS.

The Barnes Family Foundation

Arthur & Lori Barter

Dawn Beattie

Glenn Bianchi

Paul & Tammie Brailsford

Philip & Arlene Bresnick

Arthur Brody

Morris & Hannah Brown

Gary Cady

Jacques & Jill Cesaire

Harry Cheshire Jr.

Barry & Debra Clarkson

Aaron Cohn

Ronald & Guadalupe Cohn

Dr. Jody Corey-Bloom & Dr. Floyd Bloom

Dr.StewartCumming

JohnCummings

Cushman Family Foundation

Disneyland Community Fund

Sam Ellis

GeorgeEllison&ElizabethBranstrom

Employees Community Fund ofBoeingCalifornia

Ciro & Doreen Estremo

Pam Fair & Glenn Sullivan

Cecelia Garr

H. Fort Flowers Foundation Inc.

Jayne Hancock

John Hausman

Mary Jo Hausman

Rick & Melinda Hausman

Teri Hausman

Joe&SharonHernandez

Mark & Lieu Hill

Conrad N. Hilton Foundation

Leonard & Elaine Hirsch

Michael&AnetteHogan

Tim & Erin Holl

Stephen Homsey

TonyHughes

Richard Klein

Estate of Helen & Austin Mahr

Al & Ellen Majewski

Mark&PeggyMalbon

Stacy Matseas

Barbara&RogerMaurais

McCallum Family

JohnMcDonough

McGrory Family Foundation

MorganStanleyFoundation

Michelle Mueller

Muller/Gault Charitable Foundation

Cynthia&TomPerazzo

PIMCO Foundation

Bob & Debra Posey

Justin & Danielle Reckers

Doug&DeniseRegnier

Keith Richenbacher

Philip & Tiffany Rivers

Kimberly Roush

Richard & Anne Ryan

Gloria & Tony Samson

Suzanne&PaulSchulman

Chris & Joyce Serocke

Michelle Shapiro

James Smith

David & Katrina Smith

Beverly Sudman

George&KathyTomlanovich

Dr. Nick & Ruth Tsoulos

Norv & Nancy Turner

MarkTyler&KarenSedgwick-Tyler

Erin & Jean Walsh Trust

Diane & Nat Ward

John & Lois Wareham

Charlie Whitehurst

Cynthia&EricWittenberg

Phyllis Yates

Walter J. & Betty C. Zable Foundation

Zankel Foundation

Peter & Sandi Zarcades

Majid & Sohaila Zarrinkelk

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