Jett Foundation has 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 campaign, which sets a $10.7 million goal, has already raised over $5 million during its quiet phase, anchored by two transformative $1 million donations from the Emilson Family and ITF Therapeutics.
Located on a 10-acre campus in Norwell, Massachusetts, Jett’s Place will serve as Jett Foundation’s national headquarters and will provide barrier-free accessibility, specialized wellness care, adaptive nature and recreation, and educational programs designed with input from Duchenne families. The facility aims to address the unique needs of the DMD community, offering a space where affected individuals and their families can access comprehensive support and respite.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive neuromuscular disorder diagnosed during childhood, causing loss of motor, pulmonary, and cardiac function, and premature death. It affects every 1 in 5,000 live male births and some females, with no cure currently available. Children with Duchenne often lose the ability to walk around age 12 and succumb to the disease in their early to mid-twenties. Jett’s Place is intended to provide ongoing support for every stage of the Duchenne journey, from diagnosis through advanced stages.
ITF Therapeutics, the U.S. affiliate of Italfarmaco Group established in January 2024 to develop and commercialize treatments for rare diseases, made a $1 million donation to the campaign. The company combines end-to-end commercial execution with close listening to learn directly from advocates, researchers, clinicians, and families, ensuring their perspectives shape the design of innovative solutions. For more information, visit ITF Therapeutics.
Jett Foundation 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 details about the foundation can be found at Jett Foundation.
The announcement of Jett’s Place represents a significant milestone for the Duchenne community, as it is the first facility of its kind dedicated solely to supporting those affected by this rare disease. With over $5 million already raised, the campaign seeks broader community support to bring the project to life. The implications for the industry and families are substantial: Jett’s Place could serve as a model for similar sanctuaries for other rare disease communities, highlighting the importance of specialized care and community support in managing chronic, progressive conditions. For business and technology leaders, the initiative underscores the growing trend of philanthropic investment in healthcare infrastructure, particularly for underserved patient populations.
