Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America

Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to finding the cures for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, and improving the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. Since its founding in 1967, the Foundation has played a pivotal role in advancing research, advocating for patients, and providing comprehensive information and support to the Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) community.

History

The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America was established in 1967 by Irwin M. and Suzanne Rosenthal, William D. and Shelby Modell, and Henry D. Janowitz, MD. Motivated by personal experiences with IBD, they sought to create an organization that would support research into the diseases and provide information and assistance to those affected by them. Over the years, CCFA has grown significantly, funding cutting-edge research, advocating for policy changes, and creating a wide array of educational programs.

Mission

The mission of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America is to cure Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and to improve the quality of life of those affected by these diseases. The Foundation is committed to supporting research that leads to more effective treatments and ultimately cures for IBD. It also aims to educate patients, healthcare professionals, and the public about IBD and to provide support services to the IBD community.

Research

CCFA has been at the forefront of IBD research, investing over $350 million in research projects since its inception. The Foundation supports basic and clinical research, including genetics, immunology, microbiome studies, and new therapies. It also sponsors the Pediatric Risk Stratification Study, a major initiative aimed at predicting the course of disease in children with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Programs and Services

The Foundation offers a wide range of programs and services designed to help those affected by Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These include:

• Camp Oasis - A summer camp program for children with IBD.
• Power of Two - A support program that connects newly diagnosed patients with trained volunteers who have lived with IBD for years.
• Educational workshops and webinars on various aspects of living with IBD.
• An information resource center that provides detailed information on IBD and related topics.

Advocacy

CCFA is active in advocacy efforts to improve healthcare policies affecting IBD patients. The Foundation works at both the state and federal levels to ensure access to care, promote IBD research funding, and support policies that benefit the IBD community.

Events

The Foundation organizes numerous fundraising events throughout the year, including the Take Steps walk and the Team Challenge endurance training program. These events raise funds for research, education, and support services, while also raising awareness about Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Conclusion

The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America has been a beacon of hope for those affected by IBD for over five decades. Through its commitment to research, education, support, and advocacy, CCFA continues to make significant strides towards finding cures for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, while improving the lives of those living with these chronic illnesses.