For June, our Casual Friday efforts raised $110, which the agency matched for a total donation of $220. Funds benefitted the American Lung Association. Our employee Roberta Bernier had a team that participated in the Lung Force Walk of June 12, 2021.
This walk was cancelled last year due to COVID-19. This year, hundreds showed up in Roger Williams Park and many more participated virtually. Health screening, social distancing, sanitation, and masks for those not yet fully-vaccinated were needed. Nonetheless, the event raised over $40,000 to help promote and support lung health.
Helping Us Breathe
The pandemic has highlighted the importance of the American Lung Association’s work. They are an invaluable resource for people in our community that struggle with asthma, COPD, lung cancer, and lung disease. They also educate, advocate for clean air, conduct lifesaving research, and support preventative measures, including the COVID-19 vaccine.
Education
Education is a powerful preventative tool. Consequently, the organization empowers Americans with information on how the lungs work, how to quit smoking, how to keep lungs healthy, lung exercises, when lung disease is a possibility, and what’s involved in various treatments.
Clean Air
Their Stand Up for Clean Air initiative addresses pollution and the negative effects of climate change. They push for renewable energy and better environmental protections through the EPA. A staggering 40% of Americans currently reside in areas with unhealthy air.
Cutting-Edge Research
From the development of medication to treat tuberculosis in the 1950s to the present day, this organization has made a great difference to many people’s lives. Their ongoing respiratory virus research program could potentially stop future respiratory virus pandemics like COVID-19.
Help & Support
The American Lung Association has a powerful network of support systems in place for a wide variety of needs. Contact them if you want to quit smoking, need financial assistance for treatments, or if you want to connect with current or recovered patients.
They have Better Breathers Clubs across the nation for lung disease management tools and virtual support. Those with lung cancer can pair up with a mentor who is there for them as they tackle their challenges. They also have many educational programs on asthma, radon, and more. They can also help employees keep their lungs healthier through corporate wellness programs.
It’s Easy to Help
The American Lung Association offers many ways to get involved. You can make a one-time, monthly, or memorial donation. They also offer planned giving and vehicle donation options.
They also welcome volunteers, educators, and advocates and run many events throughout the year. These include climbing stairs, walking, running, cycling, yoga, and more. You can also attend one of their many education and training events if you want to learn more.
