Participating in events that raise awareness about multiple sclerosis (MS) and fund research into the condition can help you build connections with others affected by the disease. There are a variety of events available, and you can participate as much as you want to and you’re able to.

If you’re interested in participating in MS awareness, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s what you need to know about some of the most common MS events and how to participate or organize your own.

What Is Walk MS and How Can You Participate?

One of the most common ways people raise both awareness and funds for MS is by participating in Walk MS. Walk MS was founded and is run by a nonprofit organization called the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (also known as the National MS Society or the MS Society).

The ultimate goal of the nonprofit’s events is to find a cure for multiple sclerosis by funding clinical trials. But these events also serve to bring the MS community together — which includes those living with MS, those who have a loved one with MS, or those who simply care about MS.

Walk MS organizes multiple sclerosis events across the United States. You can find an event near you, register online, and start fundraising.

If there’s no walk near you or you want flexibility around your walk, you can sign up for Walk MS: Your Way. There, you can organize your own walk and access resources, tools, and rewards.

Other MS Fundraising Events

If walking isn’t your thing, there are other events around the country designed to raise awareness about MS and fund MS research.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society also runs Bike MS. It’s similar to Walk MS but involves cycling instead of walking.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society also runs Finish MS. If you join Finish MS, you’ll sign up for one of the nonprofit’s races (usually a marathon or a half-marathon), get training support, and commit to raising a certain amount of money before your race.

If you’re looking for something else, consider creating your own event through the society’s Do It Yourself (DIY) Fundraising MS initiative. The group encourages a wide variety of DIY events, including:

• Athletic challenges
• Content-streaming parties
• Tribute fundraisers
• Poker nights

You’ll get the chance to set up a fundraising page, use the nonprofit’s donor app, and more.

All your proceeds will go to the same place as those raised through Walk MS, Bike MS, and Finish MS.

How To Get Involved in MS Community Events

If you want to get involved in an MS event in your area, the first step is to register. Once you find the event you want to participate in, the website will tell you what you need to do next. If your event is through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, you can register online.

Registering often requires setting your fundraising goal. You can set whatever amount you want, unless you’re doing a Finish MS event that requires you to raise a certain amount of money. You can challenge yourself with a high target amount or set your sights lower and continue to raise money if you meet your goal early.

Finding Community Through MS Awareness Events

In addition to raising awareness and money for MS, events like the ones mentioned above offer other benefits. They can help people affected by MS find community and find support from others who understand.

It can also feeling inspiring and supportive to seeing a large group of people show up for a walk or a bike ride.

These events also allow people to honor those they love who live or lived with MS. You can carry signs with your loved one’s name or wear T-shirts printed with their photo or MS awareness symbols.

How To Stay Safe and Comfortable During MS Events

Walking, biking, and other activities may not be accessible to everyone who lives with MS. If you have mobility problems or low energy, choose the events you participate in carefully.

You can also choose virtual or “your way” participation, donate without attending the event, or organize your own low-impact awareness events.

If you’re not sure what to do, talk to a healthcare provider. They can help you decide what’s safe and appropriate for you. Some events have designated paths for mobility devices, which can make them more accessible.

You should also be prepared with a plan in case it rains, or you feel tired or sick. You may want to have someone who can pick you up along the way if it’s unsafe for you to finish, or be willing to stop and sit at a rest area until your body is ready.

Staying Connected Beyond a Single MS Fundraising Event

The connections you make at MS fundraising and awareness events are real. Keep them going after the event to continue to feel your community’s support while making a difference for others living with MS.

There are a few ways to stay connected, depending on where you live. Joining support groups, whether local or online, and volunteering with MS organizations are great ways to start. You can even encourage the people you meet at your event to sign up with you, so those relationships continue to grow.

Join the Conversation

On MyMSTeam, people share their experiences with multiple sclerosis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What’s your favorite way to fundraise for and build a community around multiple sclerosis? Let others know in the comments below.