We wrapped up an extraordinary year in 2013. With your support, we once again were able to provide the largest and most comprehensive program of charitable financial assistance to dialysis patients in the United States. We helped patients in all 50 states maintain health insurance coverage and also pay for treatment-related expenses not covered by insurance. We also worked to reach people at risk for kidney disease, providing more than 22,000 free kidney health screenings in 17 cities across the nation.
There is so much more yet to be done in the fight against kidney disease, not only in supporting those who are already on dialysis, but also in raising awareness among people who are at risk for this devastating condition. We can’t do our vital work without you, and we are enormously grateful for your partnership!
Best wishes to you and yours for a healthy and happy 2014!
November is National Diabetes Month. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, causing nearly 40 percent of all cases. For people with diabetes, managing the condition—through healthy eating, medication and an active lifestyle—is key to helping prevent kidney disease or slowing its progression.
Calling all young artists! Kids 18 and under who have kidney disease are eligible to enter AKF’s 19th annual Calendar Kids Art Contest. Thirteen drawings will be included in AKF’s 2015 calendar, and the cover art will be chosen through online voting during National Kidney Month (March). The cover artist will win an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., this fall to be honored at our annual gala, The Hope Affair! Deadline for all entries is February 21, 2014.
For social workers and technicians working with dialysis patients, the American Kidney Fund offers three continuing education courses that tackle issues around depression. Courses are free and eligible for continuing education credit from the National Association of Social Workers and the National Association of Nephrology Technicians.
Since 2011, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA) has been working with AKF to raise awareness of kidney disease and its risk factors through health and education-focused activities. Proudly sporting their colors of pink and green, AKA members frequently volunteer at AKF health screenings and outreach events. Many AKA chapters have formed teams for Kidney Action Day Walk events and the Virtual Walk and are raising funds to support AKF programs and services.
Thinking of making a gift to AKF? Here’s another great reason: For the 12th year in a row, AKF has received the highest possible rating—four stars—from Charity Navigator, the nation’s leading charity evaluator. By receiving this designation for 12 consecutive years, AKF is ranked in the top 1 percent of organizations that Charity Navigator evaluates. Charity Navigator President Ken Berger said, “This ‘exceptional’ designation differentiates the American Kidney Fund from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust.” Our programs and services depend on your financial support, and you can be assured we have the utmost commitment to stewardship of the donated dollar.