About Us

Our Mission: Transforming lives and building a kinder and more inclusive future through advocacy, research, and support. The Gwendolyn Strong Foundation serves families affected by spinal muscular atrophy and other life-altering conditions and disabilities by offering practical financial support, filling in the gaps, and inspiring resilience through the journey.

Our Story: After our daughter, Gwendolyn, was diagnosed with SMA at 5-months-old and being told there was "Nothing you can do," we soon launched into advocacy and a dedication to create change, turning our devastating pain into purpose. Believing everyone can make a difference, we inspired the NEVER GIVE UP. movement and raised Millions. Our work helped get Federal legislation signed, changed public policy for rare diseases, spawned new funding and new talent to the field, and got the first SMA treatments to clinical trial and ultimately FDA approval. Now, SMA is a treatable disease with a future for those affected by it.
 
Today, in tribute to the kindness and inclusivity Gwendolyn inspired wherever she went, we are building the first fully inclusive playground in Santa Barbara so all children have the opportunity to just be one of the kids.
 
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity. Our tax ID number is 26-4734446.