The third annual Big Red Alphas Ice Cream for Alpha-1 annual fundraiser brought the community together on Saturday, June 27, at the Natural Resources Center within the Chalco Hills Recreation Area in Omaha, Nebraska. Organized and hosted by Nebraska Support Group Leaders Nora Kemmerer and Chelsea Boring, the event welcomed more than 70 attendees for an afternoon of fun, connection, and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1) awareness.
Guests enjoyed ice cream, face painting, yard games, and an impressive raffle featuring 19 themed baskets, including gift cards, zoo admission packages, and other popular prizes. The event raised an incredible $4,231 to support the Alpha-1 Foundation’s mission of improving the lives of those affected by Alpha-1 and advancing research toward a cure.
The fundraiser also attracted local media attention. The local news story highlighted how the Boring twins, Olivia and Owen, at an early age, are raising awareness about Alpha-1 and educating their community about this rare genetic condition in a fun way.
One of the most meaningful outcomes of the event was the opportunity to connect with people both familiar and unfamiliar with Alpha-1.
“One of the most touching moments was when a grandmother and her granddaughter stopped by after seeing our sign,” Chelsea shared. “They weren’t involved with the Alpha-1 Foundation, but their great-grandmother has Alpha-1 and is currently receiving augmentation therapy. They walked in simply because they saw the event sign, and it turned into a meaningful conversation. Throughout the day, we connected with people who knew about Alpha-1 and many who had never heard of it before. Even people passing by offered to help carry supplies and support the event, despite having no previous connection. It was a wonderful reminder of how these events create new relationships and expand Alpha-1 awareness beyond our immediate contacts.”
The event also brought together members of the Alpha-1 community, friends, family members, and supporters from across Nebraska and Western Iowa. Among those in attendance was Dr. Stephen Rennard, A1F Therapeutic Development Network Director.
Through their dedication and enthusiasm, Nora and Chelsea created more than just a successful fundraiser—they created an opportunity to educate, connect, and inspire. The Big Red Alphas’ Ice Cream for Alpha-1 demonstrates the power of grassroots fundraising, and the impact local communities can have in advancing awareness and support for Alpha-1.
“This year’s 3rd Annual Ice Cream for Alpha-1 event was an incredible success, made possible by the generosity of our local community. From the many businesses that donated items for our raffle baskets, to the families and supporters who spent the afternoon with us, the outpouring of support was truly inspiring. Each year our event continues to grow, and with it, so does awareness of Alpha-1. What stood out the most was seeing not only our attendees, but also our donors, genuinely excited to support our mission. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with fun, community, and the shared hope of making a difference in the search for a cure for Alpha-1 ,”said Nora Kemmerer, Alpha-1 mom and Support Group Leader.
Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and helped make this event such a tremendous success.
Looking to make a difference in a fun, family-friendly way to support the A1F mission? Host or join an Ice Cream for Alpha-1 fundraiser to raise the necessary dollars for Alpha-1 research toward a cure. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy delicious treats while raising awareness and funds for Alpha-1.
Click here to get started: https://alpha1.org/ice-cream-for-alpha-1/
A1F’s Building Friends for a Cure program brings communities together to promote Alpha-1 awareness, raise funds, and advocate for a better future for people living with Alpha-1. The Alpha-1 Foundation extends sincere thanks to its Building Friends for a Cure sponsors AlphaNet, CSL, Grifols, and Takeda for their continued partnership and commitment to advancing the mission.
