The ALS Network Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

A decade of impact, inspiring people to boldly advance the discovery of prevention strategies, treatments, and cures.

Ten years ago, a seemingly simple act ignited a global social movement. Inspired by three individuals living with ALS, the Ice Bucket Challenge transformed from a lighthearted trend into a powerful force for change. This grassroots phenomenon captured the world’s attention, showing how a community’s collective efforts could fuel scientific research and expand care services for people living with ALS.

In July and August 2014, more than 17 million people participated in over 159 countries, with over 10 billion views of videos. Together, more than $220M was raised worldwide for ALS organizations. Funds from the Ice Bucket Challenge contributed to scientific advancements, including the discovery of new ALS genes and improved understanding of the disease.

This unprecedented global outpouring of support made a real difference to the ALS community. This August, the ALS Network celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Ice Bucket Challenge and encourages people to get involved in raising ALS awareness and support. 

“I come into this work every day thinking, ‘What is the thing I need to do today to get us closer to cures tomorrow’?” said Sheri Strahl, president and CEO of the ALS Network. “We are working urgently across three fronts; research, care, and advocacy. We’re doing this for people with ALS today, while thinking about people who will be facing ALS tomorrow.”

Over the past ten years, fueled by the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and the steadfast support of the community, the ALS Network has increased our impact and capacity by investing in mission-critical activities. Key achievements include:

• 36% more clients and families living with ALS​ served
• 500% increase in financial grants to families
• 100% increase in partnerships with ALS clinics
• 50% increase in monthly connection group meetings
• 500% increase in medical equipment and communication devices loaned, free of charge each year​
• $15M+ invested in ALS research to support groundbreaking science and moonshots to accelerate therapy development
• Designation of the California ALS Registry, to provide critical information on the incidence and prevalence of ALS
• Multi-year public funding for the ALS Network’s wraparound model of care
• Significant advocacy efforts at federal and state levels resulting in increased government funding and support for ALS research and care 

Looking forward, the ALS Network is laser-focused on driving research to discover effective prevention strategies, treatments, and cures for ALS. The incidence of ALS is predicted to increase worldwide by as much as 69% by 2040.

“ALS can happen to anyone, and it is up to all of us to be a part of the solution,” shared Strahl. “That is why we are asking people to look back to the incredible impact made possible by the Ice Bucket Challenge and recommit themselves to taking action to help us cure ALS together.” 

The Ice Bucket Challenge had an extraordinary impact in raising awareness, research, and services for those living with ALS. We encourage people to fuel the search for cures by making a donation today and challenging others to do the same – with or without a bucket of ice water.  

Find out more at ibc.alsnetwork.org

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