Portland to celebrate 10th anniversary of ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — Ten years after a viral sensation made waves across the world and spread awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, Portland is joining in on the anniversary celebration.

In August 2014, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge encouraged people to douse themselves in ice water in support of those living with ALS — also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

On Saturday, ALS Northwest is inviting community members to come to Willamette Park in a free gathering where speakers will reflect on the impact of the challenge and the ways it has helped advance ALS research.

Additionally, attendees will even have an opportunity to re-enact the ice bucket challenge themselves.

“We are incredibly excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our organization and the overwhelming support we received from the Ice Bucket Challenge back in 2014,” said Lance Christian, Executive Director of ALS Northwest. “This viral event helped make significant strides in ALS research over the past decade.”

The event will take place Aug. 10 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

People are encouraged to bring chairs, towels, picnic items and their own buckets.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.