As the only national nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the national rheumatology academic training environment few would argue that our cause is not vital to rheumatology. However, there is another reason donors should feel good about giving to the REF. It has earned the highest rating of four stars for its ability to efficiently manage and grow its finances from Charity Navigator, America’s largest and most-used independent evaluator of charities. Approximately one-quarter of the charities evaluated by Charity Navigator receive the highest rating, which reflects the fact that the REF executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way and outperforms most other charities in America. This “exceptional” designation from Charity Navigator differentiates the REF from its peers and shows the public that it is worthy of their trust.
Over the last 25 years, the REF has evolved from a fledgling foundation, funding $345,000 in grants annually, to be the premier private funding source of rheumatology research and training programs in the U.S. Over the next two years, the REF will fund $22 million in grants (when you take into account both our core awards and Within Our Reach RA grants). Having reached this stage, the REF is now poised to expand its investment in the best and the brightest in rheumatology, paving a bold path into the future. These advances directly translate into improved patient care and lead the way to cures for the one in five American adults who suffer from arthritis and rheumatic disease.
Dr. St.Clair is president of the ACR REF and interim chief of the division of rheumatology and immunology at Duke University in Durham, N.C. Contact him at [email protected].