March of Dimes

The March of Dimes is the hallmark of successful notfor-profit 501(c) corporations in the area of linking public health needs and scientific research. The long-standing success of this organization is based on the development of grassroots support at the local community level.

In 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis in response to the epidemic nature and devastating effects of the poliovirus. Comedian Eddie Cantor became involved in the Depression-era fundraising by asking radio listeners across the land to send their spare dimes directly to the White House. This was such a success that the term “March of Dimes” soon became the official name of the foundation. Dr. Jonas Salk was recruited to lead the battle against polio. In 1954, approximately 2 million schoolchildren were vaccinated in “field trials.” This effort depended on the largest mobilization of peacetime volunteers recorded, and further cemented the foundation as a mainstay in American culture. In 1958, the March of Dimes expanded its focus to include any cause of birth defects or infant mortality. It is with this mission that the foundation still operates today.

The March of Dimes continues to experience successes, which include the importance of folic acid in pregnancy, artificial surfactant effects, and nitric oxide efficacy, as well as many other initiatives that are having a positive effect on infant care. These initiatives have expanded to include education and legislation. These efforts have proven a catalyst to keep the volunteer spirit active, assuring ongoing successes for this organization.