What is March of Dimes?
March of Dimes was founded in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The goal of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature births, and infant mortalities. The March of Dimes was a huge factor in the development of the polio vaccine that eventually ended the polio epidemic in the United States.
Once polio was virtually eradicated from the United States, the foundation turned its efforts to preventing birth defects and infant mortality. With help from the March of Dimes, researchers have discovered many genetic causes that lead to birth defects. Since 2003 their main effort has been placed in their prematurity campaign. The rising number of premature births demands action from the March of Dimes. They have responded by initiating an intensive, multi-year campaign to raise awareness and find the causes of premature babies.
How can my Key Club help?
Education is key in raising awareness about birth defects and infant mortality. As a result, your club can host purple days at your school to raise awareness, and even hold events discussing the problem and the impact it has on millions of people and babies worldwide. A key day to do this is on November 17th, World Prematurity Day. Hosting an educational event on day dedicated to this cause will likely cause the information to resonate with others, and thus be more impactful. In addition, fundraising is a huge help. Hosting a fundraiser at a local restaurant or store is a great way to make money for this fantastic cause. Another major source of revenue for this charity is the March of Dimes Walk, which will be discussed below.
The March for Babies is one of the biggest events associated with this cause. It is a great way to raise money and promote awareness regarding the issues that March of Dimes tackles. To participate in a march, visit the March of Dimes Website and sign-up for one in your area! It’s that easy. Simply enter in your zip code and the website will direct you to the nearest event in your area. Can’t make it on that specific day? No worries! You can now join a Virtual Walk in any location. However, your Key Club can make a team for the walk and fundraiser, so attending a march in person is an extremely worthwhile experience.
Find Your Local Chapter
Connecticut Chapter - (860) 815-9365
500 Winding Brook Drive, Suite 8, Glastonbury, CT 06033
Maine Chapter - (207) 289-2080
136 US Route One, Scarborough, ME 04074
Massachusetts Chapter - (508) 366-9066
112 Turnpike Road, Suite 300, Westborough, MA 01581
New Hampshire - (603) 228-0317
25 Lowell Street, Suite 304, Manchester, NH 03101
Rhode Island - (401) 454-1911
220 West Exchange Street, Suite 003, Providence, RI 02903