Fueled by Passion and Urgency

National Kidney Foundation is a lifeline for all people affected by kidney disease. As pioneers of scientific research and innovation, NKF focuses on the whole patient through the lens of kidney health. Relentless in our work, we enhance lives through action, education and accelerating change.

A Brief Timeline

History of NKF Advocacy

  • NKF launches the Take Action Network to support our advocates' efforts.

  • NKF announces plans to double the annual research budget over the next five years
  • NKF's KEEP program US screens 100,000th person
  • Kidney patients score a victory when Congress overrides a presidential veto and passes the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008.

  • After severe flooding in the U.S., NKF provides financial assistance to help patients get to lifesaving dialysis treatment and to rebuild their homes.
  • The ADA recognizes NKF KEEP as a “Promising Practice” to help combat diabetes in minority populations.

  • During the economic downturn, many patients and families are financially strained. NKF steps up to provide more than $4 million in assistance.

  • “Ask the Doctor” online forum with Dr. Leslie Spry is launched.
  • KEEP screenings reach 200,000 people.

  • NKF joins the National Salt Reduction Initiative, along with more than 45 organizations and nationally recognized brands, to combat dangerous levels of dietary sodium.

  • NKF copes with the global financial downturn, continuing to provide abbreviated services, its full support for CKD patients and families, and finding ways to do “more with less” during this period.
  • NKF copes with the global financial downturn, continuing to provide abbreviated services, its full support for CKD patients and families, and finding ways to do “more with less” during this period.
  • NKF launches the PEERs patient mentoring program.

  • NKF’s Kidney Living, a magazine for dialysis patients, debuts.
  • "Your Kidneys and You" a new community-based educational initiative is launched; trained volunteers deliver presentations to members of the general public throughout the country.

  • Kidney.org is the highest ranked website in searches for kidney disease, accessed by 4 million constituents.

  • NKF meets with key members of the federal government to ensure that the Affordable Care Act meets the needs of people with kidney disease
  • NKF launches a ground-breaking interactive web portal and mobile app, My Food Coach, to help patients with all stages of CKD navigate the complexities of a healthy renal diet.
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