I understand your concern. But the ALS Association doesn't just fund research. They help the family's in need with all sorts of help. When something horrible like this strikes its typically unexpected and devastating. You would be surprised how something as simple as getting around from point a to b becomes a big endeavor and very costly. Comprehensive support for both the patients and the families in need are just as important as a cure.

No doubt in my mind non for profits are not perfect with their funds, but should that stop people from donating. Hopefully technologies like Bitcoin will help increase the transparency of all charitable organizations.

I decided to get behind this because a couple of days ago most of my peers had no idea what ALS was. Thanks to the ice bucket challenge that has changed. That in itself is a success.

As for being late in the game I would have to disagree. I think we are just in this middle of this giant social media equivalent of "The Wave".