Jett Foundation today announced the launch of a capital campaign to fund the construction of Jett’s Place, a premier wellness and retreat center designed as a dedicated sanctuary for individuals and families affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The project, located on a 10-acre campus in Norwell, Massachusetts, will also serve as the foundation’s national headquarters.
The fundraising campaign has already secured over $5 million during its quiet phase, including two transformative $1 million donations from the Emilson Family and ITF Therapeutics. The overall goal is set at $10.7 million.
Jett’s Place is described as a first-of-its-kind facility that will provide barrier-free accessibility, specialized wellness care, adaptive nature and recreation, and educational programs developed with input from Duchenne families. The center aims to address the unique needs of a community affected by a devastating disease.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive neuromuscular disorder diagnosed during childhood, causing loss of motor, pulmonary, and cardiac function and leading to premature death. It affects approximately 1 in 5,000 live male births and some females, with no cure currently available. Children with Duchenne typically lose the ability to walk around age 12 and succumb to the disease in their early to mid-twenties.
Jett Foundation, headquartered in Norwell, Mass., has worked since 2001 to empower people and families impacted by Duchenne through transformative programming, educational opportunities, and ongoing support. The foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) charity, and all donations are tax-deductible. More information can be found at www.jettfoundation.org.
ITF Therapeutics, the U.S. affiliate of Italfarmaco Group established in January 2024, is focused on developing and commercializing treatments for rare diseases. The company emphasizes close collaboration with advocates, researchers, clinicians, and families. For more details, visit www.itftherapeutics.com.
The announcement marks a significant milestone for the Duchenne community, as Jett’s Place aims to provide a dedicated space for wellness, education, and respite. The foundation invites broader community support to bring the project to fruition, with the capital campaign now entering its public phase.
