History and Signature Programs


History

Since its establishment in 2013, the John A. Schafer, MD Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center (MSAC) has enhanced the physical, cognitive and emotional wellness of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The MSAC was initially made possible through a grant from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. The MSAC day wellness program launched on February 20, 2014 and was originally a one day per week program with ten members. The day wellness program has expanded to four days per week, including programs of different lengths, and adjunct programming continuously striving to enhance wellness in people living with MS.

As part of ongoing quality improvement, the MSAC collects outcomes on various aspects of quality of life.  These outcomes show improvements in socialization and quality of life for program members.  In addition, improvements in levels of physical activity are reported by our members.

In August, 2023 the name was officially changed to the John A. Schafer, MD Multiple Sclerosis Achievement Center.  The name was changed in honor of Dr. John Schafer, whose vision, dedication and generosity was instrumental in establishing and sustaining the MSAC in its first 10 years.

Signature Programs

The programs listed below are designed to enhance the member’s medical care. Our focus on wellness is an important part of an overall comprehensive care plan.  The different programs, Empowered to Achieve and Achieving Wellness, provide different formats to best serve the MS community.

MS Achievement Center

Empowered to Achieve

Empowered to Achieve is our 5 hour signature program which includes both individualized and group exercises, education, social support, cognitive stimulation, emotional support and recreational activities.

  • One day per week for 5 hours
  • Program Times: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Achieving Wellness

Achieving Wellness is our 2.5 hour signature program which includes both individualized and group exercises, education, social support, cognitive stimulation, emotional support and recreational activities.

  • One day per week for 2.5 hours
  • Program Times: 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. or 12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

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