The March of Dimes mission to work toward the day when all babies are born healthy remained strong despite a weak economy. Because of the outstanding dedication of our volunteers and donors, we ended the year with $241.8 million in operating revenue. We are determined to continue funding research, helping moms, providing information and comfort to families and promoting the health of babies.

In 2008, we made progress in the following areas:

• NICU Family Support® sites across the country reach more than 50,000 families with a baby in newborn intensive care every year.
• Advocacy efforts to expand newborn screening were successful, and every state now mandates testing for at least 21 serious but treatable conditions.
• The Surgeon General’s Conference on Preterm Birth produced an action agenda to reduce the prematurity rate.
• The first-ever Premature Birth Report Card brought much-needed attention to the growing problem of prematurity.
• Millions of people supported the first-ever March for Babies® event. They walked with their families, friends and co-workers in 900 communities across the country.
• We invested $26.8 million in new research grants to better understand and eventually prevent birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

To continue making progress, our national Board of Trustees voted to declare prematurity prevention a global campaign and to extend the campaign to 2020. In the years ahead, we will be an even stronger voice for preemies and their families, and we will grow our investment in research, family services and prevention programs. 

With everyone’s support, we look forward to doing even more to help give every baby a healthy start.

Dr. Jennifer L. Howse President

Kenneth A. May Chair of the Board

The March of Dimes is proud to offer a mom- and family-friendly work environment. We value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer.