IAFF Locals across the first and third districts are ready to fill the boot for the Muscular Dystrophy Association after attending the Northeast Boot Camp on May 5 in Norwich, Connecticut.
More than 130 IAFF members from 92 Locals attended the training event to learn how to maintain and build on the successful fundraising efforts.
Over the past 70 years, IAFF members have raised over $710 million for the MDA through fill the boot campaigns and hosting events. IAFF members, with the help of training opportunities like this one, are hoping to add big numbers to that total.
“The MDA Boot camp is the perfect opportunity for IAFF members across the Northeast to get together to network, share ideas, and formulate strategies for raising money for the IAFF’s preferred charity of choice,” said 3rd District Vice President Jay Colbert. “Our members have always worked hard on behalf of MDA, and they are ready to do more. I was honored to be a part of this event.”
Five MDA families, including National MDA Ambassador for 2023 and 2024 Leah Zelaya, also attended the event. Zelaya is a high school senior. She was diagnosed with a rare form of muscular dystrophy at age 6 called scapuloperoneal spinal muscular atrophy (SPSMA).
SPSMA is a chronic progressive disease that causes the muscles — predominantly those of the lower limbs — to atrophy, limiting mobility and making it difficult to walk without support.
“I’ve seen firsthand how every dollar raised, every boot filled, turns into critical care, groundbreaking research, and lifelong support for people like me to live longer and more independently,” Zelaya said. “IAFF fire fighters show up with courage and heart, and they remind me, and our whole community, that we are never in this fight alone.”
“I’ve seen firsthand how every dollar raised, every boot filled, turns into critical care, groundbreaking research, and lifelong support for people like me to live longer and more independently. IAFF fire fighters show up with courage and heart, and they remind me, and our whole community, that we are never in this fight alone.”
National MDA Ambassador for 2023 and 2024 Leah Zelaya
Zelaya is one of only 30 people worldwide to have SPSMA. She became an advocate for muscular dystrophy and related diseases at age 15, and has been a powerful voice on the federal, state, and local levels.
“Leah is the embodiment of what it means to turn purpose into power. Her voice, strength, and story are a bright light for the entire neuromuscular community, and it’s an honor to see her share her story with our incredible IAFF partners,” MDA Chief Development Officer Ruth Ann Dailey said. “IAFF members have been unwavering supporters of MDA and its mission. Their ‘Always Ready’ motto is more than a statement, it’s a promise fulfilled year after year, boot after boot, to families like Leah’s across the country.”
The MDA is planning boot camps in all districts nationwide. Contact your District Vice President for more details.
