Spring 2026 (Volume 36, Number 1)

Building Momentum Together: CRAF’s Strategic Path to 2030

Download PDF

The Canadian Rheumatology Association Foundation (CRAF) continues to build momentum as it supports research, education, and advocacy to strengthen care for people living with rheumatic diseases across Canada.

Established in 2022, CRAF was created to provide a national charitable platform that complements the work of the CRA. Its purpose is simple but important: to create meaningful opportunities for philanthropy that help rheumatology professionals advance care, training, and discovery. Guided by the vision (curing rheumatic diseases, enabled by you), the Foundation is entering an exciting new phase of growth.

2025 was a year of important progress. The inaugural Rally for Rheumatology brought together rheumatologists, trainees, patients, and allies from across the country, raising over $85,000 while building a sense of shared purpose and momentum. At the same time, CRAF continued to deliver the Summer Studentship Program, supporting researchers, mentors, and students from coast to coast. The year also saw the launch of the Community Research Fund, expanding opportunities to support community-based and system-level research. Behind the scenes, CRAF undertook a thoughtful review of the Canadian Initiative for Outcomes in Rheumatology cAre (CIORA), listening closely to funders and stakeholders to ensure the program continues to reflect the needs and priorities of the rheumatology community.

Looking ahead, 2026 is focused on building on this strong foundation. Plans include launching a refreshed CIORA program, growing Rally for Rheumatology as a signature national campaign, and expanding support for students, community research, and education. CRAF will also continue to strengthen partnerships with industry, foundations, and government, while increasing national visibility through coordinated communications and storytelling.

As CRAF looks toward 2030, the focus remains on working together—building trust, sharing impact, and creating opportunities for the rheumatology community and its supporters to help shape a stronger future for patient care and research. Learn more at crafoundation.ca.