Enhancing the lives of people living with complex neurological diseases is a daily mission for Mary T. Miller.
As the executive director of The Tanner Foundation, her organization gives grants, funds research and provides educational events for individuals with ALS, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. Grants help individuals pay for medical bills, therapy and equipment.
“We are here for those in the community with these complex neurological diseases to help them navigate and support them throughout this journey,” Miller said.
Miller has worked in fundraising and events since she graduated from college, eventually moving to her current fundraising post 17 months ago.
“We are a very small organization,” Miller said, “but after receiving a handwritten note after one of our events thanking me for what we are doing to raise awareness … it made me realize that even though we are very small, we can have a big impact.”
Miller is thankful for the committed work of her board of directors who make things happen. She also applauds her generous donors.
“You can never thank a donor enough,” Miller said. “They are giving to your organization because they care about it.”
Along with many organizations this year, fundraising and education have been virtual. Current plans are underway to co-host a 450-mile bike ride for multiple sclerosis in April.
“Working together with other local organizations, instead of competing with them, will only bring about positive things for this community. We are all in this together.”
