JDRF is the leading global organization focused on type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Driven by passionate, grassroots volunteers connected to children, adolescents, and adults with this disease, JDRF is the largest charitable supporter of T1D research. The goal of JDRF is to improve the lives of every person affected by T1D by accelerating progress on the most promising opportunities for curing, better treating, and preventing T1D. JDRF collaborates with a wide spectrum of partners who share this goal.
T1D is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. While its causes are not yet entirely understood, scientists believe that both genetic factors and environmental triggers are involved. T1D strikes suddenly at any age and is not outgrown. Until a cure is found, people with T1D have to test their blood sugar and give themselves insulin injections multiple times a day. And even with that intensive care, insulin is not a cure for diabetes, nor does it prevent its potential complications, which may include kidney failure, blindness, heart disease, stroke, and amputation. As many as 3 million Americans have T1D.
JDRF is committed to improving the lives of those living with type 1 diabetes, today and in the future.
Consistent with this goal we focus on both short and long term opportunities. Broadly, these are science leading to better treatments, and science leading to a cure.
Team JDRF is a way for anyone and everyone to make a difference in the fight against type 1 diabetes. Whether it’s a walk, a bowl-a-thon, a lemonade stand, or whatever you dream up, Team JDRF pairs our families’ passions for the cure with grass-roots fundraising. Now JDRF brings you a handy toolkit to get inspired and get started. Here you will find ideas, best practices, printable materials…everything you need to be successful. We have also got a terrific online system, to make your fundraising even more effective, efficient, and FUN.