Summer 2024 (Volume 34, Number 2)

Advancing Rheumatology Care:
A Year of Progress for the Canadian Rheumatology Association Foundation

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The first two years of The Canadian Rheumatology Association Foundation (CRAF) have been characterized by significant achievements, learnings and a deepening commitment to its vision of a future free from the burden of rheumatic diseases.

The recent Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) marked another pivotal moment for the CRAF, as it provided the opportunity to further engage the rheumatology community. The enthusiastic reception and engagement from attendees underscored the relevance and importance of the foundation's mission.

In a testament to the support and commitment within our community, CRAF achieved 100% donor backing from both the Canadian Rheumatology Association (CRA) and CRAF Boards. This unified support has been instrumental in facilitating new initiatives and fostering collaboration.

We are currently expanding our solicitation strategy for CIORA to identify private foundations whose values align with the CRAF. This initiative is poised to help broaden the scope and reach of CRAF's initiatives, while facilitating greater collaboration and resource mobilization in the pursuit of improved care and outcomes for patients.

The CRAF Board recently embarked on a strategic development process, aligning its mission with a clear focus on fostering optimal care through research, training and advocacy. The CRAF’s purpose is to “alleviate the burden of rheumatic disease on individuals, their community and society, while giving those who want to contribute the opportunity to do so.”

The Foundation will continue to be guided by its vision, “Curing rheumatic diseases enabled by you”, and its mission, ”To create opportunities to support current and future rheumatology professionals to deliver the best care possible by funding research, training and advocacy.”

Grounded in values of compassion, integrity, boldness and excellence, the foundation is poised to drive meaningful change in the field of rheumatology.

As CRAF moves forward in its mission to enhance rheumatology care, the importance of sponsors and donors cannot be overstated. Their support is crucial in sustaining the vital programs and initiatives which the foundation champions. From funding groundbreaking research to providing training opportunities for future rheumatology professionals, every contribution plays a pivotal role in advancing patient care and enabling innovation in the field. By partnering with CRAF as sponsors and donors, individuals and organizations have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals affected by rheumatic diseases. Together, we can ensure that the momentum gained continues to propel us towards our shared goal of a future free from the burden of rheumatological conditions.

To learn more about how you can impact the important work of the CRAF, visit our website at crafoundation.ca or email us at executivedirector@crafoundation.ca.