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
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Upcoming Events

EVENT | Feb 28 2026

Rare Disease Day

Rare Disease Day is a global movement to raise awareness of rare diseases and work towards equity in health care, particularly access to diagnosis and approved treatments for people living with a rare disease. Since its inception, thousands of Rare Disease Day events have taken place across the world, reaching millions of people and fostering a growing public understanding of rare diseases and the high unmet medical need of this community.

Advocacy
Global
EVENT | Mar 7 2026

Hope for ToMORROW

Join Hope for ToMORROW to celebrate FARA and its contributions to research for Friedreich's Ataxia.

Grassroots
The Bryn Mawr School, Baltimore, Maryland
EVENT | Mar 14 2026

Houston FA Research Reception

This is a free, in-person educational event for the FA community. 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
Embassy Suites by Hilton The Woodlands® at Hughes Landing, The Woodlands
EVENT | Mar 28 2026

Hope for a Cure

Presented by The Race for Matt & Grace. Admission includes generous selection of food stations, passed hors d’oeuvres, and live entertainment.

Grassroots
The Hope Club, Providence
EVENT | Apr 11 2026

rideATAXIA Hometown Lake Charles

We invite you to join us for a fun 3-mile ride at Sam Houston Jones State Park and celebrate your fundraising efforts with teammates.

rideATAXIA
Sam Houston Jones State Park, Lake Charles, Louisiana
EVENT | Apr 24 2026

Torrance FA Research Reception

The Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) will host a half-day FA Research Reception on April 24 at the Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach in Torrance, CA.

Education
Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach, Torrance, California
EVENT | Apr 28 2026

Raise A Glass to FARA - Wine Tasting

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

Grassroots
Gooseneck Vineyards, North Kingstown, Rhode Island
EVENT | May 9 2026

rideATAXIA Hometown Chico

Join us on May 9 for a pre-Mother's Day family-friendly ride!

rideATAXIA
Bidwell Park, Chico, California
EVENT | May 9 2026

New Jersey Seaside Stride

SAVE THE DATE! 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. More info to come.

Grassroots
Tri-Boro First Aid Squad, Seaside Park, New Jersey
EVENT | May 11 2026

rideATAXIA Hometown Danville

rideATAXIA
Danville, CA, Danville, California
EVENT | Jun 1 2026

9th Annual Race for Matt & Grace Golf Tournament

Golf tournament benefitting The Race for Matt & Grace, Inc.

Grassroots
Potowomut Golf Club, East Greenwich
EVENT | Jun 13 2026

Oklahoma City FA Research Reception

Education
Omni Oklahoma City Hotel, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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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