Parkinson Disease Research

Van Andel Institute currently works with the Hauenstein Parkinson’s Center to collect blood samples from Parkinson patients. These samples are used to study Parkinson disease at the cellular level - why it occurs and possible drug targets. The Institute will have an entire laboratory dedicated to Parkinson disease research in its Phase II building expansion; the lab is set to open in 2010 and your support can help buy needed equipment and fund future research. 

1.5 million Americans currently have Parkinson disease, and increased numbers are expected as the Baby Boomer generation ages. You can help prepare for this looming threat through your support.

Ready to Make a Gift to Fight Parkinson Disease Through Research?

There are several types of gifts to choose from. You can also check with your employer to see if they will match your gift.

• General Gift - make a gift for a specific amount right now, either online, over the phone, or via fax or mail (make a general gift online; download printable form)
• Memorial Gift - make a gift in memory of someone special to you that has passed away; if you choose, a special card can be sent to the family of the honored individual letting them know of your gift (make a memorial gift online; download printable form)
• Tribute Gift - give a gift to VAI to celebrate births and birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, weddings, and other special occasions; a special card can be sent to the honored individual(s) to let them know of your gift (make a tribute gift online; download printable form)
• Gifts of Securities / Stock - eliminates capital gains tax and allows you to claim an income-tax deduction on the market value of the stock on the date of ownership transfer
• Planned Giving - help build a legacy without affecting your cash flow today; gifts can include bequests, charitable remainder trusts, charitable gift annuities, charitable lead trusts, IRA's or other retirement plan assets, and life insurance (more information)

Please call 616-234-5681 to discuss any of these options.