Setting up a fundraiser in your community is a great way to raise awareness about myasthenia gravis – this June and any time!
Fundraisers support the MGFA’s mission to create connections, enhance lives, improve care, and cure MG.
Interested in setting up a fundraiser but not sure where to start?
MGFA Ambassador Siobhain Carolan has some advice.
Siobhain was the top fundraiser at the 2026 MG Walk – Boston. With support from friends and loved ones, she set up several different fundraisers at restaurants and breweries in her hometown.
How to Set Up a Fundraiser
The restaurant provides the space, and you invite your community. The business donates a portion of sales from the event.
“I literally went into businesses with MGFA pamphlets in hand and said, ‘Hi my name is Siobhain, and I’m hosting a fundraising event for myasthenia gravis.’ I share briefly what the fundraiser is going to look like and briefly about what MG is. I also share my story – the short version. I also always have MGFA bracelets and pens to leave with the business.”
Make it festive – and help raise awareness with restaurant-goers who are not attending your event – by decorating. Siobhain also put up a table with educational resources about MG. You can create a silent auction or raffle with giveaways and prizes to help raise additional funds.*
“I ask businesses if they’re willing to support the fundraiser and donate a gift card, merch, or anything else. I also always invite them to come out to the event. If I have a flyer, I will leave it with them and ask if they mind hanging it. Nine times out of ten, businesses will give you what they can, in that moment. Others may ask you to email them so they have documentation of the request.”
And, lean on your resources.
“I have a friend that’s a DJ so I asked him if he would DJ for me,” Siobhain says. “Most of your friends and family are usually willing to help and donate time and services.”
Getting Started
MGFA can help you set up a fundraising page to easily process gifts. Email us to get started.
Have a different idea for a fundraiser? We would love to hear about it! Your creativity is the limit. Past fundraisers have included:
- Pay-as-you-wish outdoor yoga class
- Duck derby
- Paint-and-sip event
- Golf tournament
- Marathons and 5Ks
- Garage sale for MG
We can’t wait to see how you make an impact!
Submit Your Idea“My advice? Be confident and bold! As an MG patient you are the most knowledgeable about your disease. Share your knowledge and story with anyone and everyone!” — Siobhain
*Any raffle must follow applicable state laws.