Community Advancement
Nonprofit support
Community Leadership & Education Support
Collaborators
Goal
Build capacity within the alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) community by strengthening institutions, fostering community leadership, and expanding access to educational resources and financial support.
Support for AGS-focused nonprofits
Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) was first described in 2009, making it a relatively recently characterized condition. Unlike more established disease communities supported by a robust nonprofit infrastructure, the AGS nonprofit landscape is still emerging.
Alpha-gal Alliance is committed to strengthening the ecosystem of nonprofit organizations serving those affected by AGS.
Priority #1
Build capacity within the alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) community by supporting the nonprofits that serve it.
Priority #2
Foster leadership within the AGS community and the nonprofits that serve it.
Nonprofits supported
Pill Clarity
Pill Clarity helps patients and healthcare providers understand medication ingredients and find allergen-free options. Alpha-gal Alliance supports Pill Clarity’s drug information service—a critical resource for AGS patients.
The Alpha-gal Foundation
The Alpha-gal Foundation advances its mission through three pillars: engaging communities in conversations around AGS, educating AGS patients, healthcare providers, and the public, and empowering those living with AGS to navigate their lives with confidence and joy. The Foundation is led by Candice Matthis and Debbie Nichols, known as the Two Alpha Gals.
Alpha-gal Encouragers
Alpha-gal Encouragers promotes compassion, encouragement, and understanding to save and improve the lives of those affected by AGS through public awareness, local outreach, and monthly in-person meetings. Alpha-gal Encouragers is led by Jennifer Burton.
George Mattingly Legacy Foundation
The George Mattingly Legacy Foundation raises funds that go towards the community of Loretto and raising awareness of alpha-gal syndrome—the cause of George’s untimely passing.
Community Leadership & Education Support
Alpha-gal Alliance facilitates small grants to members of the AGS community in support of AGS-focused efforts, including awareness, education, outreach, and related community initiatives. Grants may also be applied toward educational opportunities that strengthen recipients’ capacity to serve the AGS community.
Priority #1
Foster leadership within the alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) community.
Lea Hamner, MPH– Alpha-gal Syndrome Epidemiologic Research Martha’s Vineyard Community Foundation
Through field epidemiology—the “disease detective” work of identifying who develops AGS or other infections and why—Lea Hamner is uncovering data that could save lives. Knowing who faces the highest risk for severe reactions guides prevention programs that protect those most vulnerable before they’re bitten.
Collaborators
