History
Alaska Kidney Foundation began in 1973 operating the first dialysis centers in Anchorage and Fairbanks. In 1999 both dialysis centers were sold to Renal Care Group and proceeds were used to establish the Alaska Kidney Foundation as a charitable philanthropic grantmaking organization. Foundation leadership includes nine Board of Directors and medical advisers.
Kidney Disease in Alaska
Kidney disease impacts millions of people worldwide. In the United States one in 10 adults, more than 20 million, have some form of chronic kidney disease. In Alaska there are over 500 people on dialysis and that number is steadily increasing. Diabetes is the leading primary diagnosis for end-stage renal disease. The American Diabetes Association reports that 68,500 Alaskans are affected by diabetes.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, there are hundreds of Alaskans waiting for a transplant. According to the Northwest Renal Network, “Alaska is 2000 miles from the lower 48 states, upon which it depends for a number of specialized healthcare services including renal transplantation. Travel between the more widely dispersed communities is by air or sea”. Due in part to the many remote areas of the State, Alaskans with chronic kidney disease, especially those new to dialysis, and those waiting for a transplant, maybe at a significantly higher risk for financial hardship.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Alaska Kidney Foundation is to wisely use its resources to help Alaskans with or at risk of kidney disease.
Core Values
* Respect * Compassion * Responsiveness * Accountability
The Alaska Kidney Foundation does not discriminate in its grantmaking on any basis including race, gender, religion, ethnicity, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability.
Purpose
Alaska Kidney Foundation is committed to granting funds to organizations that are addressing the causes and treatments of kidney disease in Alaska, and supporting Alaskan residents with, or at risk of kidney disease. Grants may be awarded to individuals, and for special projects, programs, or general operating support for established organizations.
Goals
- Alaskans with kidney disease will have emergency relief for basic human needs.
- Alaskans with kidney disease will have timely kidney transplants and donations for all organs will be increased.
- Alaskans at risk of kidney disease will have early screening.
- Alaskans will be educated on the importance of preventing kidney disease.
- Alaskans with kidney disease will be knowledgeable and empowered health care consumers.
To learn more about grant opportunities and apply, please visit our grants opportunities page.