About The Associates Committee
The Associates Committee was founded in 1998 by two members of the chapter's Manhattan Society. The committee consists of a core group of 20 volunteers who dedicate their time throughout the year to ensure the success of one large scale event, from photo exhibits to cabaret nights to Cinco de Mayo to their most recent theme, the "Springtime in the Bowery" cocktail party and silent auction held at The Bowery Hotel. The group has raised over $1,000,000 to date for local programs, services and national research.
The Associates Mission
The mission of the Associates Committee is to raise awareness and funds to aid national research and programs and services for individuals living with multiple sclerosis in the five boroughs and Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange and Sullivan counties by:
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Hosting one event each year targeted to the NY professional community's interests. The focus of these events is to maximize the revenue that goes directly to MS, and stay within the expense guidelines provided by the New York City - Southern New York Chapter (currently no more than 20%).
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Provide a forum for discussion with area scientists and clinicians to keep members up-to-date on medical progress and advances in understanding, treating and controlling multiple sclerosis.
How the Group Works
The group consists exclusively of volunteers who dedicate their time to ensure the success of their annual event. The group meets approximately six times a year at the New York City - Southern New York Chapter. Each year the committee determines the type of event they will host and plays an active role in one or more aspects of planning the event. However, the committee is designed to enable members to self-determine their level of participation on the event. The chapter provides assistance in the form of administrative and event coordination, as well as access to research materials, medical professionals, and comprehensive information about MS for the Associates Committee.
Membership Fees
Within the group, there is an individual membership fee of $250 annually or a family membership fee of $400 annually. This fee and the members’ participation is required to formally participate as a voting member of the Associate's Committee. Membership fees are 100% tax-deductible. To download a membership application, please click here. To pay dues, please click here.
How the Money is Spent
The Associates Committee has a formal allocations process in September of each year to distribute funds raised by the committee, including membership fees, during the preceding fiscal year. The chapter presents programs and research grants for which it is seeking funding and the Committee votes on which projects to fund. All active members have a vote during the allocations process.
How to Get Involved
All interested individuals are encouraged to attend a meeting. Please call Jenny Powers at the chapter at 212-453-3208 or e-mail her at jpowers@msnyc.org for more details.