ALS Fundraising: How Communities Raise Money to Support Those Living with ALS

When people talk about ALS fundraising, the collective effort to raise money for research, care, and support for people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Also known as motor neuron disease fundraising, it’s not just about walks or galas—it’s about families, neighbors, and strangers showing up for people who can no longer hold a cup, speak clearly, or breathe without help. ALS doesn’t discriminate. It hits fast. And while there’s no cure yet, the money raised through local efforts keeps people alive longer, more comfortably, and with dignity.

What makes ALS fundraising different from other causes? It’s personal. Many campaigns start because someone’s parent, friend, or coworker was diagnosed. You don’t need a big team or a million-dollar budget to make an impact. A bake sale at the local library, a car wash outside the grocery store, or even a community trivia night can raise thousands. These aren’t just events—they’re acts of solidarity. And they’re happening right now in towns across the UK, often led by volunteers who’ve never run a fundraiser before but refuse to sit still while someone they love fades away.

Real success comes from simple, repeatable ideas. Think about it: a charity event, a planned gathering designed to collect donations for a cause doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to be honest. A local group in Bristol raised £12,000 last year by hosting weekly coffee mornings at a community center—no tickets, no pressure, just people showing up with homemade scones and stories. That’s the power of consistent, human-centered action. And it’s why so many ALS campaigns outlast corporate sponsorships—they’re rooted in real relationships, not logos.

It’s also why so many people are tired of being asked to volunteer for the same old events. They’re not saying no to helping—they’re saying yes to better ways. The most effective ALS fundraisers today aren’t the ones with the flashiest posters. They’re the ones that listen. They ask: What can you actually give? Time? A skill? A few hours on a Saturday? A shared meal? That’s the new model: flexible, respectful, and real. You don’t have to run a marathon to matter. You just have to show up.

Below, you’ll find real examples of what’s working—low-cost fundraisers that actually brought in cash, stories from families who turned grief into action, and practical guides that help you start without feeling overwhelmed. These aren’t theoretical ideas. They’re the tools people in Bristol and beyond are using right now to keep hope alive for those living with ALS.