Become Inspired

Check out the "LAM Fundraising Handbook"

Volunteering can be a rewarding experience. Whether you have five minutes or five hours, there are a number of ways to get involved in the LAM community. Sharing your personal experience, hosting a support group or sponsoring a fundraising event are just some of the options. Here are tips to help you determine when and how to get started:

Learn What Works For You

Below you will find some questions you should ask yourself to identify ways you can get involved:

1. What types of activities do I like to do in my spare time, and how can I use my interests to connect with others?
Focus on activities that interest you. For example, if you are an artist, create a poster that symbolizes LAM, breathing or hope. If you also enjoy working with children, combine your interests by teaming up with a local school. Consider displaying the artwork at a local church, mall or recreation center to increase awareness. If you are interested in outdoor activities, such as golf, consider planning a golf outing to help raise money for LAM research and increase awareness of the disease.

2. How much time do I have to devote to my effort?
Time is precious for all of us. As you explore ways to make a difference in your community, consider how much time you can spare. Regardless of whether you spend five minutes sharing your story or an afternoon washing cars to raise money for LAM research, your contributions will help advance the LAM cause.

3. How do I want to reach out to my community?
Use your strengths. Do you enjoy speaking in front of groups of people, or do you prefer one-on-one interaction? Perhaps you would like to distribute LAM education kits at your local mall or high school. Or you can look to start a support group where you can connect with and serve as a resource to other women living with LAM.

Take Time to Plan

If you decide to champion your own activity, ask yourself some important questions before getting started:

Education/Awareness

If I have been personally touched by LAM, am I emotionally ready to re-live my experience and share it with others?
Am I willing to learn more about the disease to teach others?

Event Planning

Who can I count on to help plan and run this event?
Will I be able to find the necessary resources for this event?
Where will the event be hosted?
How many people could potentially attend?
How will I draw people to the event?
Will I be able to find enough volunteers to staff the event?

There are many ways for you to get involved in the LAM community. Read about more ideas.

Learn more about the symptoms, cause and treatment of LAM.

Get ideas and advice on how you can support The LAM Foundation.

Read about the latest news and happenings in the LAM community.