Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center

The MS Achievement Center is managed and services are provided by the University of Kansas Medical Center staff. The Friends of the MS Achievement Center 501c3 supports KU MSAC through fundraising and advocacy. A Little History... The Mid America MS Achievement Center was established in 1995 with the mission of offering a safe place for individuals with a progressive form of MS to get connected with therapeutic services and a caring staff. The Center, located in the heart of Kansas City, KS, is one of only a handful of similar programs in the United States. A professional team comprised of a neurologist, a psychologist, and physical, occupational and recreational therapists focused on providing specialized programming for individuals with MS to help them retain functional ability and receive emotional support. The Center opened its doors on August 14, 1997, to six participants who received services once a week. By December 2013, the Center expanded to multiple days with 35 members participating. In 2013, the Center received a grant from the Conrad N Hilton Foundation to greatly expand its program. This grant came about through a collaboration with Rehabilitation Institute of Kansas City, National MS Society Mid America Chapter and the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC). Through this grant KUMC provided a space designed specifically for the MS Achievement Center and expanded clinic space for patient care and research. In April of 2016, the MS Achievement Center moved to the current location in the Landon Center on the KUMC campus. KUMC took over operation of the program and the Mid America MS Achievement Center transitioned from day-to-day operations to advocacy for our members and fundraising for the Center. In October 2016, the name was changed to better reflect our mission: Friends of the MS Achievement Center.

The MS Achievement Center exists to enhance the quality of life for people with progressed multiple sclerosis (MS). Our participants, called members, come to the MSAC one day per week to improve their physical and mental well-being. Exercise, physical therapy and activities for engaging their brains and creativity are led by our professional staff, guest experts and students. This format provides opportunities to do targeted work that is less costly than private therapy. MSAC program days are Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The MSAC is for those who are: - Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and at least 18 years of age - Experiencing physical or cognitive disability that limits work or daily activities - Able to communicate basic daily needs: thirst, hunger, toileting needs, pain - Willing and able to participate and engage in all aspects of the program - Free of uncontrolled wandering - Able to conduct themselves in a respectful manner and is committed to regular attendance - Has reliable transportation - Able to abide by the guidelines in the MS Achievement Center Handbook