Michele Dupree is a driving force behind Carnival for people with ALS, which began in 2007 after one of Michele’s dear friends, Pam Callahan, was diagnosed with ALS. Knowing Pam’s greatest joy in life was children, their community joined together and created this over-the-top event. Hundreds of children have volunteered over the years to build games, plan, promote and run the event. During their planning meetings, kids are always learning about the importance of giving back and in making ALS their cause to stand behind. Proceeds from the event benefit the ALS Therapy Development Institute as well as the Joan Dancy Foundation.
Michele has become widely recognized in the ALS community as someone who can get things done for people with ALS. Quietly and working through her network, she helps to source support and resources for people with ALS. In addition, she is a major voice driving ALS awareness on Facebook. The network and community of folks whom Michele has met on Facebook often communicate via the group, “ALS Facebook Family.” This group participates in many different fundraising events including the Valentine’s Day Plunge on the Jersey Shore, the Tri-State Trek and the White Coat Affair gala, among others.
Through her network and social media outreach, Michele has helped to drive many ALS families and others to ALS.net where they have been able to fund research to advance the discovery and development of effective treatments and cures for ALS.