Our Mission

AIMS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing direct support to individuals affected by Multiple Sclerosis, raising public awareness and the understanding of MS.

Our HISTORY

Prior to incorporating in February 2015, AIMS was a grassroots organization. AIMS began its life in January 2011 as “Team Gizmo,” named after a 12-year-old Persian cat whose fighting spirit kept him going through every medical challenge he faces. Gizmo’s owner – AIMS President and co-Founder David ( “Mikey” ) Alcozer was diagnosed with MS in 2007. He experienced his first relapse while shoveling snow in December 2010. With tireless support of his family and friends, he began conducting MS fundraising and awareness outreaching though hosting bake sales, organizing events at driving ranges, bars, and bowling alleys, participating in the National MS Society’s annual walk, and selling bracelets, t-shirts, and jogging pants sporting “Team Gizmo” insignia.

The organization’s annual golf outing held at White Pines Country Club in Bensenville , IL quantifies the exponential growth of support for Team Gizmo since its inception.  In 2011, two teams for four played in the “Good Fellas Golf Outing.”  That number tripled the following year, and, by 2014, 116 golfers participated. All proceeds from the golf outings and other events supported the National MS Society’s Northern IL Chapter.

Thanks to Team Gizmo’s strong social media presence, individuals diagnosed with MS began reaching out to Mikey from not only within Chicagoland area but throughout the United States. Mikey’s signature blend of optimism and first-hand experience offers a beacon of hope and solidarity to individuals and their families alike, whether they are facing a new diagnosis or complications from a relapse. The potential to impact individual lives through community support inspired Team Gizmo’s transformation to:

AIMS: Assisting Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis an Illinois nonprofit corporation registered as a 501(c)(3).

AIMS has donated Mobility Scooters to help individuals navigate around their home and even participate back in their workplace. We have been blessed to send out our yearly packages during the holidays and host MS meetups as we strive to bring people together to share and connect with one another. Dealing with this difficult illness is different for everyone but it’s our privilege to create an opportunity to connect with other MS fighters and feel a sense of community. Aims has helped individuals with yard work, snow removal, installation of washroom arm bars, and guided people through the state application process to get them caregiver assistance. 

We still host events and have our 8th Annual Golf Outing coming up! October 2,2023 at Bonnie Dundee Golf Club in Carpentersville, IL. so check out our events page for more info. Hope you can join us!