Ice Bucket challenge proves a boon for ALS research

WASHINGTON — Over the past weeks, celebrities — including professional athletes, actors, musicians and even governors — have filmed themselves being doused in icy water as part of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. The viral stunt, which challenges people to either dump a bucket of iced water on their heads or to donate $100 for ALS research, has proven a financial windfall for the ALS Association.

From July 29 to Aug. 18, people have donated $15.6 million to the nonprofit, which works in various capacities, including research to push for a cure for the neurodegenerative disease. The amount raised in the past weeks — from both past donors and 307,598 new donors — is about a 766% increase in donations over the same period last year, when it raised $1.8 million.

“The ALS Association is extremely grateful for the generosity of these donors, and for the actions of several people who initiated and spread this incredible viral effort.” ALS Association President and CEO Barbara Newhouse wrote in a letter on Aug. 16, adding that they plan to “invest prudently in helping people with ALS and their families and caregivers in the battle against the disease, while resolutely pursuing all avenues to extend, improve and ultimately save lives.”

In her letter, Newhouse explained that with the donations, the association will be prioritizing its research — it currently oversee 98 projects, and will be launching 21 more — as well as the care services it provides through local chapters across the United States and working on public engagement campaigns.

“Increased awareness and unprecedented financial support will enable us to think outside the box,” Newhouse wrote. “We will be able to strategize about efforts in ways that previously would not have been possible, all while we work to fulfill and enhance our existing mission priorities nationwide.”