ALS is a motor neuron disease with no current definitive explanation of the cause, no known treatment, and no recognized cure. Upon diagnosis, individuals with ALS are typically given 2-5 years to live. It is a devastating, fatal disease that robs people systematically of their abilities - loss of the ability to move their legs, to walk, to write or move their arms, to eat, to swallow, and to talk. At the end of the disease cycle, people with ALS are held captive in their bodies which are unable to move besides the blink of their eyes, all while their cognitive abilities remain the same. ALS in the Heartland (ALSITH) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit agency that serves individuals with ALS, their families, and caregivers in Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota. ALL donations given to ALSITH during Give Where You Live will be specifically designated for those affected by ALS in the Kearney area.

Services provided at no cost by ALS in the Heartland and their impact include:
*Education, guidance, and community resources
*Individual and group support
*Respite grant program
*Equipment loan program
*Children's funds
*Alternative services
*Referrals to experienced medical professionals
*Volunteers
*Advocacy and research