“Calling all AFTD volunteers!” Recently, the AFTD Volunteer and Events Departments co-hosted virtual gatherings for our AFTD volunteers, giving them the opportunity to connect with AFTD staff and with each other.

The sessions were held March 15 and 21, with one for volunteers in the eastern U.S. and one for those in the western half.

Staff from both departments spoke with AFTD volunteers and gave them a general overview of the current state of AFTD. The volunteers then shared their experiences, successes, and challenges in conducting AFTD awareness events and fundraising activities. The virtual gatherings gave volunteers and staff the chance to think about what each individual can do to spread FTD awareness and raise critical funds for AFTD’s mission.

The dynamic virtual gatherings had a rare energy, as participants discussed the value of sharing and amplifying their FTD stories – after all, every FTD story counts. One attendee noted that, in the world of political advocacy, telling your personal story as a constituent is most important to legislators. Similarly, every AFTD volunteer has their own unique and precious story, and only they can tell it!

The virtual gatherings also helped to engage those from more isolated, often rural areas, allowing them to feel part of a network united in its effort to change the story of FTD. Attendees voiced their enthusiasm to identify opportunities to engage with their local communities. They also said they hoped that more virtual gatherings might be held in the near future. All volunteers who attended were formally invited to join us, either in person or virtually, at AFTD’s 2023 Education Conference in St. Louis in May.

Thank you to each of our awareness volunteers, support group volunteers, fundraisers, and event organizers who do such a wonderful job in spreading awareness and raising funds so critical for AFTD’s mission.