Description: To find a cure for and improve living with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) through research, education and support services for ALS patients and families.

Mission: The DC/MD/VA Chapter of The ALS Association provides assistance to people living with ALS (PALS). It also raises funds for research. It has established the following priorities: 1. to deliver services and support for ALS patients, their families and caregivers by providing information, counseling, physician referrals, in-home visits, loan of portable communicative devices and medical equipment, and guidance in disease management. 2. to encourage and fund scientific research directed at identifying the cause of, a possible cure for, and means to prevent ALS.3. to heighten awareness of the devastating nature of the disease in the local communities the Chapter serves (Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia).