About
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in New York, NY, and, in its own words, "the global leader of a movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS." The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy, and provides programs and services that help people affected by multiple sclerosis live their best lives.
Mission
As the Society states on its website: "The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives." Its stated goal is a world free of MS, and its mission and values center on helping everyone impacted by the disease on the journey to finding a cure.
What they do
- Research funding — the Society funds research aimed at stopping MS, restoring function, and ultimately curing the disease.
- MS Navigator — people affected by MS can call, write, or chat online to be connected with an MS Navigator who provides information, resources, and assistance in navigating life with MS.
- Advocacy — the Society drives policy change on behalf of people affected by MS, with an advocacy program it has run for decades.
- Walk MS and Bike MS — signature nationwide fundraising events that bring together the MS community and its supporters; both draw national corporate sponsors each year.
- Programs, resources and support groups — educational programs, financial and insurance guidance resources, and local support groups across the country.
History
The Society traces its history to 1946 and describes on its website how, "From 1946 to now," it became a global MS movement, with a published timeline of highlights from its 80 years of progress. The IRS recognized the organization as tax-exempt in October 1947.
Financials
According to IRS Form 990 data on ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer (EIN 13-5661935), for the fiscal year ending September 2025 the Society reported total revenue of 161,966,823 dollars, total expenses of 155,704,344 dollars, and net assets of 122,583,971 dollars. Contributions accounted for about 85.5 percent of revenue.
Governance
Timothy Coetzee serves as President and CEO, a role he assumed in July 2024 according to the Society's IRS filings. The organization is a 501(c)(3), and donations are tax-deductible.