Veteran ALS Action Committee (VAAC)
Who is the VAAC?
The Veteran ALS Action Committee is a team comprised of foundation members, advocates, caregivers, & Veterans living with ALS. The VAAC is dedicated to increasing Veteran awareness of and participation in clinical trials and research through education and outreach.
Our Goals
Awareness
Raise awareness of clinical trials and research opportunities that are available to Veterans impacted by ALS.
Education
Educate Veterans and healthcare providers on the clinical trial process and the roles that each person plays.
Collaboration
Bridge the gap between the clinical trials world and Veterans to create positive change in the ALS community.
Veterans Clinical Research Learning Institute (VCRLI)
The Veterans ALS Action Committee is pleased to announce the second annual Veterans Clinical Research Learning Institute (VCRLI) will be held June 5 and 6th in Malvern, PA, at the Desmond Hotel.
Applications are being accepted from February 2 to April 1, 2026. This program is an intensive two-day learning experience dedicated to educating Veterans on the clinical research process, therapy development, the treatment landscape, and advocacy in order to empower Veterans and caregivers to be advocates and valued contributors to ALS clinical research.
Space will be limited to 15 Veterans and their caregiver/companions. Travel costs (transportation & lodging) for Veterans living with ALS will be reimbursed. Caregiver/companion travel costs will be reimbursed up to $500. Please contact the team if other arrangements are needed.
WEBINARS
“Observational Trials” Webinar
February 26, 2026 @ 7pm est via Zoom
Join members of the Veteran ALS Action Committee as we discuss observational trials, how to participate, and hear stories from participants. Use the button below and fill out the form to sign up. You will receive a Zoom Link the week of the event.
“Introducing & Exploring ALS VA Handbook” Webinar
The “Introducing & Exploring the ALS VA Handbook” webinar was held on November 20th, 2025. The discussion reviewed the ALS VA Handbook with contributions from Dr. Ileana Howard and Ms. Leah Darling. Click the button below to view the recording.
Passcode is: @Uv5UqxT
PUBLICATIONS
International Symposium on ALS/MND Posters
The VAAC presented at the 36th International Symposium on ALS/MND in San Diego this year.
Please see the buttons below to view and download the presented posters!
New Publication!
Dr. Ileana Howard, Chair of the VA’s ALS Executive Committee, has teamed up with leading ALS care providers throughout the VA to understand the symptom burden and care satisfaction of our Veterans impacted by ALS. Their findings have been released in a new publication, “Symptom Burden and Care Satisfaction in US Military Veteran with ALS: Results of a National Survey.” Please see the button below to view and download the publication!
Resources
Your ALS Guide: a comprehensive online guide to living with ALS
ALS TDI Trial Navigator: A free resource from the ALS Therapy Development Institute for finding clinical trials
I AM ALS Signal: A free resource from I AM ALS for finding clinical trials
Les Turner Clinical Trial Participation Guidebook: An online guide for what to expect during the clinical trial process
