Shining a Spotlight on the American Diabetes Association
How a 565,000-Volunteer Network Powers Life-Changing Events Nationwide with SignUp
Last Updated June 25, 2026
Fighting diabetes takes more than medicine. It takes millions of people who show up, raise their voices, and give their time to a cause that touches nearly every family in America. At the American Diabetes Association, that network of committed individuals is more than 565,000 strong.
From funding life-changing research to delivering education and services in hundreds of communities, the ADA's impact is wide and deep. Two of their most visible community touch points are the Step Out Walk and Tour de Cure, signature events that bring together volunteers, walkers, cyclists, and supporters across the country to raise awareness and funds for diabetes prevention, management, and a cure.
Coordinating that many volunteers, across that many events, in that many communities, takes the right tools and the right approach.
We asked the ADA how they make it happen, and here's what they had to say.
Please tell us about your organization and your sign-up needs.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) works to impact the diabetes community. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we aim to improve the quality of life for everyone affected by diabetes.
We envision a life free of diabetes and all its burdens. Our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
We lead the fight to end the deadly consequences of diabetes and fight for those affected by diabetes:
- We fund research to prevent, manage, and cure diabetes.
- We deliver services to hundreds of communities.
- We provide objective and credible information.
- We give voice to those who are denied their rights because of diabetes.
80 cents of every dollar is spent on education, research, advocacy, and public awareness.
The ADA is a network of more than 565,000 volunteers; people with diabetes, their families, and their caregivers; a professional society of nearly 12,000 health care professionals; as well as over 400 staff members.
Explain how you use SignUp to coordinate your volunteers.
The ADA deeply values its volunteers and recognizes that successful events would not be possible without their support. We use SignUp.com to recruit volunteers for Step Out® Walk and Tour de Cure® events in local communities, post available opportunities, provide detailed volunteer descriptions, communicate important event information, and foster ongoing engagement and stewardship year after year.
Why did you decide to use SignUp?
SignUp.com streamlines volunteer management from start to finish, making the process simple for both organizers and volunteers. Its intuitive, user-friendly platform helps ensure volunteers have easy access to important event information, clearly understand their roles and responsibilities, and receive timely updates including any last-minute changes. By keeping everyone informed and organized, SignUp.com creates a seamless volunteer experience and helps events run more efficiently.
What is one piece of advice that you have for other volunteer coordinators out there?
Steward your volunteers throughout the year to keep them engaged and connected to the mission. When you identify a standout volunteer, recognize their contributions and consider providing opportunities for increased responsibility or leadership. Most importantly, never underestimate the power of a simple thank you — showing appreciation goes a long way in building lasting volunteer relationships.
💙 We are so grateful for the American Diabetes Association and the 565,000+ volunteers whose dedication brings this mission to life in communities across the country. Supporting the important work they do every day is something we're truly proud of. 💙
FAQs: Volunteering with the American Diabetes Association
Q: What events does the American Diabetes Association coordinate through SignUp?
A: The ADA uses SignUp to recruit and coordinate volunteers for Step Out Walk and Tour de Cure events in communities across the country.
Q: How can I volunteer with the American Diabetes Association?
A: Volunteer opportunities are posted through the ADA's local event SignUps, where you can view available roles, shift details, and key event information before signing up.
Q: What is Step Out Walk?
A: Step Out Walk is one of the ADA's signature fundraising events, bringing together walkers, volunteers, and supporters to raise funds and awareness for diabetes research and advocacy.
Q: What is Tour de Cure?
A: Tour de Cure is a cycling event organized by the ADA to raise funds for diabetes research, with routes for cyclists of all experience levels.
Q: How does SignUp help large volunteer programs run more smoothly?
A: SignUp centralizes volunteer recruitment, scheduling, and communication in one place. Organizers can post opportunities, share event details, and send timely updates so volunteers always know what to expect.
Q: How does the American Diabetes Association use its funding?
A: 80 cents of every dollar goes directly to education, research, advocacy, and public awareness. The ADA funds research to prevent and cure diabetes, delivers services to hundreds of communities, and advocates for the rights of people with diabetes.
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About the Author
Tara McAdams
Digital Marketing Manager, Content Strategist & Creator
Tara leads content strategy at SignUp and creates a variety of resources on a wide range of topics – including lifestyle trends, prep for holidays, volunteer management, and event planning. More about Tara →
