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 | Jul 15 2026

Claxton Classic Wing Party

Wing Party to kick off to the Claxton Classic Tournament to benefit FARA.

Grassroots
14707-B Baltimore Ave, Laurel, MD
EVENT | Jul 17 2026

44th Annual Claxton Classic Golf Tournament

Your registration fee includes continental breakfast, green fees, cart, driving range, drinks, buffet lunch, and prizes.

Grassroots
Compass Pointe Golf Course, Pasadena, Maryland
EVENT | Jul 19 2026

rideATAXIA Chicago 2026

Save the date for rideATAXIA Chicago! More details to come soon!

rideATAXIA
Channahon Central Park, Channahon, Illinois
EVENT | Jul 25 2026

FA Fest

Enjoy food, beverages, a casino with blackjack (for fun, not money), tarot card readings, digital portraits, yard games, raffle prizes and more.

Grassroots
Freeman Residence, Edina, Minnesota
EVENT | Aug 2 2026

rideATAXIA Hometown Boston

Registration coming soon!

rideATAXIA
Lexington Visitors Center, Lexington, Massachusetts
EVENT | Aug 8 2026

Swing for a Cure: Softball Tournament

10U Rec Friendly Softball Tournament to benefit FARA

Grassroots
Greentown Athletic Club, Uniontown
EVENT | Aug 9 2026

Rock 'N' Jock Charities: Night of Entertainment

A Night of Entertainment featuring Steve Smith and The Nakeds with special guests, a silent auction, dinner, drinks and dancing.

Grassroots
The Crowne Plaza Warwick, Warwick
EVENT | Aug 9 2026

Rock 'N' Jock Charities: Golf Tournament

Golf Tournament benefitting FARA and A Wish Come True.

Grassroots
Potowomut Golf Club, East Greenwich
EVENT | Aug 15 2026

Saddle Up for FARA

Join the Edmonson Family for cocktails, dinner, and an exclusive trunk show with luxury western vendors flying in from across the country.

Grassroots
Bear Hill Cattle Company, Dade City
EVENT | Aug 22 2026

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
Thompson Rod and Gun Club, Thompson
EVENT | Aug 22 2026

Sweet Caroline's 21 for FARA

Join us for a night of music and celebration to raise funds for the Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA)! Hosted by the Smith Family. Featuring Blackberry Breeze.

Grassroots
Choctafaula Ranch, Auburn, Alabama
EVENT | Aug 23 2026

rideATAXIA Hometown Cleveland

Join us on Saturday, August 23 for rideATAXIA Hometown Cleveland! Registration to open in June.

rideATAXIA
Berea, OH

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.

Group of children in fancy dress

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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