The MS Center is an independent nonprofit organization that provides valuable resources for community members and their families who are affected by multiple sclerosis. The MS Center is a unique community center, supporting mind, body, and spirit.“The MS Center helps patients grow in hope, community, and strength,” says Shannon Diener, MS Center Board Chair, donor, & advocate. “It is a community that helps one another, while keeping their mind and body active so they are more hopeful and stronger.”
The MS Center’s service area of Southwest Florida includes an estimated 5,000 people living with multiple sclerosis, along with their affected family and friends. In 2015, the organization had served 52 people with MS.
The MS Center now provides services to over 500 people annually. Over half of its clients are over the age of 60. Since MS affects women three times more than men, the client base at the MS Center is 85% women.
%
Percent Women
Served Last Year
%
Over age 60
“When you walk in the door of the MS Center, there is a positive energy, comradery, and peace. It is amazing to meet other people with MS in a positive atmosphere and be able to give back,” says Lynne S, client of MS Center.
Linda and Ken Sumner,
Art Therapy Program Annual Sponsors
“It’s so important for people to have a place to go, so they’re not isolated or overwhelmed. The MS Center is critical for people who may not have access to help any other way….” Linda Sumner.
Kay Jasso, Executive Director
Photo by Nichole Raucheisen,
Naples Daily News
Kay Jasso, Executive Director of the MS Center, clarifies the uniqueness of the MS Center’s mission, “National organizations focus on research and their mission is to find a cure, while the MS Center is local “boots on the ground”, with the goal of having a direct impact on the day to day life of people suffering with MS.”
About
Multiple Sclerosis Center of Southwest Florida
The Multiple Sclerosis Center of Southwest Florida is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that has served the community since 2000. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for those in Southwest Florida affected by multiple sclerosis. Services include specialized exercise classes, care coordination, art therapy, mental health counseling, support groups, connection to resources, and educational activities.
The MS Center is not a chapter of a national organization. All donations received stay here in Southwest Florida to serve our local community.
REGISTRATION #CH-12523. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com