Greater New England Chapter MS Activists
Taking action to create a world free of multiple sclerosis
The complex set of issues facing people affected by MS demands a broad range of approaches, including advocacy in garnering needed services and support for the immediate and longer-term needs of people living with chronic disease. Advocacy is an effective and dynamic means to engage and empower thousands of individuals to create the change that people with MS and their families need. The Society’s investment in advocacy reflects our commitment to achieve policy changes that address underlying, systemic problems faced by people affected by MS.
The individuals below have an unwavering commitment to the mission of the National MS Society, and they believe deeply that true democracy depends on the willingness of citizens to engage in public policy debate at all levels of government. We honor their service, their dedication, and their effectiveness.
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Bob Picone’s volunteer activities at the chapter led him to chair the Maine Government Relations Committee (GRC). Under his leadership the Maine GRC was at the forefront of the enactment of legislation to stem the tide of rising prescription drug costs. |
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“To me, advocacy on behalf of the MS Society has always been like the warp or weft of a fabric. That is, it is an integral part of all of the organization. We are all advocates, whether or not it's part of our title, in our job description or something to which we even give a conscious thought. What the MS Society is or what it is perceived as being or what influence it has is up to each and every one of us. We are all advocates.” — Ken Jones |
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Can one person open the doors for all people with disabilities? Many doors at public entrances are challenging if not impossible for some individuals to open independently. Now Massachusetts is poised to open new doors for all of its citizens—-finally! Joann D'Amico Stone has influenced our public officials and successfully advocated to ensure accessibility in public buildings through out our communities in Massachusetts! |
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Judy Hallam was awarded the Governor’s Accessibility Award for her “exceptional contribution and extraordinary effort in the past year to ensure that New Hampshire is open and accessible to all people.” |