National Kidney Foundation of Michigan

Health education and research: chronic Kidney disease is a public health problem of epidemic proportions. More than 900,000 Michigan adults have ckd and most don't know it. The majority of these cases are caused by uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure. Minority populations and those with a family history of ckd are also at high risk. The nkfm's top priority is prevention so the Foundation offers many programs aimed at educating high risk populations on their risks for ckd and how behavior and lifestyle changes can prevent them from developing ckd. The nkfm serves children and adults for free across the state through innovative, grassroots programs. In addition to prevention and education programs, the nkfm also works to increase organ donation, provide patient services, and partner with state and local governments and community groups to work toward a healthier Michigan. The nkfm is the top resource to the public and media about the significant problem of ckd in Michigan and offers more programs and services to more people than any other region or state.

Patient and community services: patient services: the Foundation provides direct services to several thousand individuals each year. Services are delivered, primarily, to individuals on dialysis or with a transplant and their families or caregivers. The Foundation provides services to help with emergency needs and prescription medication as well as empowerment and continuing education programs. Services include an internship program, medical identification bracelets, emergency funds, disease self-management programs and an information and referral program that serves thousands each year. The Foundation also offers scholarships to people on dialysis or with a transplant to help them continue their education. Community services: the nkfm offers health fair and health education programs throughout the state to help identify and treat early Kidney disease in those people at the highest risk for developing ckd so they can prevent or delay its onset. The nkfm also offers a number of volunteer opportunities for people looking to get involved with the Foundation through either the state office in ann arbor or the branch offices in detroit, flint, and grand rapids. The nkfm has developed a significant advocacy program to speak on behalf of the needs of people with Kidney disease and in need of organ transplants.

All other achievements: the nkfm's focus on preventing or slowing the progression of ckd allows us to educate the public as well as professionals through various programs and services. Additionally, the nkfm works with managed care organizations to encourage proactive identification and treatment of people with ckd, prevention of the leading cause of Kidney disease, which is diabetes, and offers worksite education. The organization was recognized for its success in sound fiscal management by receiving a 4 -star rating, ten years in a row, from charity navigator - the nation's leading charity evaluator. Only 1% of charities rated have received at least ten consecutive 4-star designations, indicating that the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan outperforms most other charities in america.