Fundraising & Events

Fundraisers are one way community members can contribute to FA research. Each gathering fuels critical research and paves the way to bring treatments and cures to the FA community. FARA hosts fundraisers all over the United States, such as the glamorous Energy Ball in Tampa, FL and the nationwide cycling series rideATAXIA.  Dedicated volunteers also host local events as part of FARA’s grassroots program.

Can’t find an event near you? FARA’s fundraising team empowers individuals and groups to plan community events—from dinner parties to 5k walks to drive-in movies.

Learn About FARA Fundraising & Events
lots of hands with cure FA message

Upcoming Events

EVENT | Apr 26 2025

FA Research Reception – Charlotte, NC

The Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) is pleased to present this free, in-person educational event for the FA community in Charlotte, NC. FA Research Receptions provide individuals and families affected by FA with up-to-date information about Friedreich’s ataxia research and an opportunity to meet others in the community.

Education
Charlotte Marriott SouthPark Hotel, Charlotte, North Carolina
EVENT | May 3 2025

BBQ Love Fest

BBQ Love Fest was born out of the love of Bar-B-Que, with renowned pitmasters from all over the country. Along with local Cook Teams competing for your vote as who is the best local pitmaster. Mix incredible music all day long and find out how Tampa does BBQ Love Fest. BBQ Love Fest is more than a good time, it’s a philanthropic event that supports FARA.

Grassroots
Perry Harvey Sr. Park, Tampa
EVENT | May 6 2025

Raise A Glass to FARA - Wine Tasting

Raise a glass to FARA with a wine tasting at Gooseneck Vineyards! $30 Admission includes a aomplimentary glass of wine and appetizers.

Grassroots
Gooseneck Vineyards, North Kingstown, Rhode Island
EVENT | May 7 2025

FARA Flash Talks Session #1

Education
Virtual
EVENT | May 10 2025

rideATAXIA Hometown Chico

Join us on May 10 for a pre-Mother's Day family-friendly ride!

rideATAXIA Hometown
Bidwell Park, Chico, California
EVENT | May 17 2025

rideATAXIA Hometown San Luis Obispo

Join us for a fun 5-mile ride or 1-mile walk on the Bob Jones Trail in beautiful Avila Beach and then stay for a celebration at Mulligan's (food and drink for purchase).

rideATAXIA Hometown
Mulligan’s Restaurant, Avila Beach
EVENT | May 17 2025

New Jersey Seaside Stride

The NJ Seaside Stride is a fun, family-oriented event hosted by NJ families working to raise awareness and research funds for FA. The event features a walk on the boardwalk, lunch, and gift auction.

Grassroots
Tri-Boro First Aid Squad, Seaside Park, New Jersey
EVENT | May 19 2025

rideATAXIA Hometown Danville

rideATAXIA
Danville, CA, Danville, California
EVENT | May 22 2025

An Informational Session with Biogen

Education
Virtual
EVENT | May 28 2025

FARA Flask Talks Session #2

Education
EVENT | Jun 7 2025

Cure FA Soirée

The 8th Cure FA Soirée is an evening of arts benefitting FARA hosted by the Gehr family and the Oklahoma FA Community.

Grassroots
Omni Oklahoma City Hotel, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
EVENT | Jun 7 2025

Go Hog Wild for FARA!

Go Hog Wild for FARA! $40 includes full meal with pig and sides, hamburgers, and hotdogs. Children under 12 free.

Grassroots
Portuguese American Social Club, Smithfield, Rhode Island

Connect

FARA fosters a vibrant community, offering both in-person and virtual ways to connect so you can find support and strength on your journey. Connect in-person or virtually with families and individuals with FA or learn more directly from the professionals at one of FARA’s educational events.

Make a Connection
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FARA Ambassador Program

The FARA Ambassador Program is a united volunteer team of individuals living with FA. FARA Ambassadors are positive, supportive, peer representatives for the FA community who actively raise awareness and funds for FARA. Their dedicated support of FARA is key to continued success toward FARA’s ultimate goal of treatments and cures for FA.

Team of pople at event

Ways to Give

FARA is committed to advancing research towards meaningful therapeutics for Friedreich’s ataxia. Because FARA focuses its funding solely on carefully vetted research, each donation fuels the very engine driving progress in the search for treatments and cures – a testament to the collective power of compassion and action.

From small monthly donations through the Pathway program to employer-matched donations, there are many ways to give that suit any budget or financial situation.

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Participate in Research

Individuals with FA can be powerful partners in research. Sharing your experiences and data through research studies helps scientists learn more about FA and moves us closer to new treatments and cures.

Studies come in different forms, some simply observing the progression of the disease (natural history studies), while others test new treatment options (interventional clinical trials). Regardless of the type, participation is crucial to advancing research.

Participate in Research
young girl in hospital

Advocate

The most effective voice in making change is yours. Public policy and legislation can impact research, drug development, drug approvals, patient access to approved medications and health care, and more. By using your voice to advocate for the FA community, you are advancing FARA’s mission to expedite treatments for FA.

Learn About FA Advocacy
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Join FARA’s Community Newsletter

Stay up to date with the latest updates at FARA and in the whole FA community. FARA offers monthly newsletters for community members, researchers, FA advocates, and more. Sign up today and you’ll be on your way to staying connected and informed.

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