The MS Readthon isn’t just for Kids anymore

No matter what your age you can take part in the MS Readathon. This year, teenagers, adults and seniors are being encouraged to join primary school children, in discovering the joys of reading while raising money for Multiple Sclerosis Australia (MSA).

Now in its 34th year, the MS Readathon is the nation’s longest-running and most respected reading-based fundraiser, fostering a love of reading in more than one generation of Aussie kids.

But efforts to improve our nation’s literacy shouldn’t stop when we reach adolescence or adulthood. Nor should growing older, stifle our willingness and enthusiasm for helping others.

So this year, the MS Readathon is encouraging people of all ages to get involved by asking family, friends and colleagues to sponsor them, as they attempt to read as many books as they possibly can during the month of August.

Naturally, schools are also being encouraged to get involved. Every child who completes the program will receive a Certificate of Appreciation and will be in the running to receive reading rewards including book vouchers, private cinema screenings and even a Samsung Galaxy tablet. Additionally, the MS Readathon works hand in hand with the Premier’s Reading Challenge, so if your school is participating in the PRC, all books read count towards both programs.

Reading rewards are only given out to participants under the age of 18. But every adult who participates will receive a Certificate of Appreciation and the knowledge they have played a part in helping sufferers of Multiple Sclerosis and their families. For adults, its also an opportunity to rediscover the joys of reading…a book!

Friends and family can sponsor participants either online at www.msreadathon.org.au or by giving a donation in cash or cheque to Multiple Sclerosis Australia at www.msaustralia.org.au, or over the phone by calling: 1800 CURE MS (1800 287 367).

The aim this year is to raise $500,000 which will support the provision of essential services and programs such as physiotherapy, education and lifestyle programs, specialist MS nurses, and respite care whilst also working towards funding research for a cure for this mystery illness. As little as $500 can provide around 10 physiotherapy sessions for someone with MS which can assist with their balance and make walking a little easier.

Registrations are now open for the MS Readathon which will start on 1st August and run through until 31st August 2013. To register or for more information visit the website: www.msreadathon.org.au.