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Manhattan Society

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NYN_Manhattansociety_08_01.gifThe Manhattan Society, the junior volunteer committee of the New York City - Southern New York Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society founded 25 years ago, is an enthusiastic group of young adult professionals committed to volunteering their time, talents and energy to promote MS awareness through various volunteer activities and fundraising events.

Ranging in age from 21-35, these dedicated members help promote the chapter’s mission of creating a world free of multiple sclerosis. Since 1984, the Manhattan Society has raised over $6 million through events such as Redemption, a party after the holidays; A Taste for Hope, a food, wine and spirit tasting; and, their premier event, the Ultimate Summertime Party, which hosts over one thousand young professionals each July.

Members of the Manhattan Society have the opportunity to meet new people, network, attend great events and, most importantly, support the chapter’s comprehensive programs and support services for people living with MS and their families.

Membership and Meetings
New Manhattan Society members are always welcome. Meetings are scheduled four times a year at the chapter, located at 733 Third Ave., third floor, between 45th and 46th Streets, and feature guest speakers, information about upcoming volunteer activities, and opportunities to help work on fundraising events. All meetings take place on Tuesdays and begin at 6:30 p.m. New members are encouraged to arrive at 6 p.m. for a brief orientation. The next meetings will take place on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, October 27, 2009
  • Tuesday, January 12, 2010
  • Tuesday, April 13, 2010

What it means to be an Active Member:
The one thing that connects us is our desire to help others. Manhattan Society members are compassionate individuals committed to doing something about MS now.

One of the unique aspects of the Manhattan Society is the opportunity active members have to participate in the annual allocations process at the end of each fiscal year. Every year the money raised by the Manhattan Society is allocated for chapter services and programs, as well as national research as determined by the group’s active members.

NYN_Manhattan Society Taste 2007.gifHow you can become an Active Member:

  • Attend a minimum of two of the four quarterly meetings scheduled.
  • Participate in a minimum of two volunteer opportunities at the chapter such as:
    • Childrens Ice Skating Program- help children skate, assist during the Ask the Expert segment, etc.Walk MS and Bike MS- volunteer at a rest stop, cheer at the finish line, etc.
    • Hispanic Outreach, a day for Hispanic Families living with multiple sclerosis
    • MS Field Day, a hands on day that promotes health and wellness in the community
    • For more information and a complete list of volunteer opportunities, please contact the chapter’s volunteer manager Sasha Wells at Swells@msnyc.org or 212-453-3214.
  • Raise a minimum of $200 by:
    • Purchasing tickets for Manhattan Society events and recruiting friends and family to attend as well
    • Participating in your corporation’s matching gift program
    • Making a donation
    • Selling raffle tickets
    • Hosting a guest bartending night
    • Hosting a community event

NYN 232 PIC3The Passport Program

Through our unique passport program membership participation throughout the year is recorded by the chapter. Those members who achieve “active” status will be eligible to vote in the funding allocations process. Passports will be kept on file for all members during the year. For more information or details on how you can participate, contact Lauren Grosz, senior development manager of Special Events at Lgrosz@msnyc.org or 212-453-3235.

Sponsor a Manhattan Society event.