Charity Spotlight: Arthritis Foundation Yes! Team

By Kerrigan Peoples

Existing for over 70 years, The Arthritis Foundation works daily to find a cure for arthritis and strives to support those in our community living with any of the 100 types of arthritis. The Foundation is the number one funder of arthritis research in the country.

“Our Mission is boldly pursuing a cure for America’s number one cause of disability while championing the fight against arthritis with life-changing resources, science, advocacy and community connections,” says Liz Martin, Developmental Director of The Arthritis Foundation.

The Central Ohio Yes! Team Young Professionals Board furthers the mission of the Arthritis Foundation by creating awareness for the disease, fundraising their efforts to fight for the disease and finding a cure in tandem with the Foundation’s Local Leadership Board. The Yes! Team also focuses on personal leadership development and helps prepare young professionals for future board service.

“The Yes! Team’s goal to help fund raise for a cure, raise awareness, and grow as leaders in the community,” says Martin. “No one should have to live with the pain of arthritis.”

The Yes! Team was formed from a brainstorming session of the Local Leadership Board. Their initial goal was to develop leadership skills in young professionals and prepare them for meaningful board service in the future.

“The Yes! Team achieves their leadership development goal by working as a team to meet monthly, plan events, attend Arthritis Foundation Central Ohio Events, work directly with and attend board meetings with our Local Leadership Board,” says Martin.

The Yes! Team is participating in Columbus YP Week 2019 at the YP Week Kickoff Monday, April 29, at Idea Foundry, as well as a Volunteer Fair Thursday, May 2, at Dave & Buster’s in Hilliard.

Being really new, the Yes! Team is growing and changing as they see what works within the dynamic of the group and each member’s strengths.

“It’s a really interesting opportunity to build something new. It’s challenging and fun,” says Martin. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to make a difference, strengthen leadership skills and your resume, all while having a philanthropic goal.”

For more information about the Arthritis Foundation Yes! Team and how to get involved, visit their Facebook page..