Lupus Foundation of America

The LFA is the national leader stimulating and funding critical research on lupus, advancing new treatments and helping to improve the quality of life for everyone affected by lupus.

How do you help people in my community?

The number of people contacting LFA health educators for information and assistance has tripled over the past 15 months, and the number of calls to the LFA national office or an affiliate of LFA’s national network exceeds 200,000 annually. Thanks to financial support donated through the CFC campaign, this past year LFA developed a new telephone helpline program, improved training for support group leaders, expanded the health educator network to respond to questions in different languages, added new features to the LFA website, and launched the Lupus Research Registry to connect individuals with lupus to clinical trials in their area which are enrolling participants.

Why do you need my support?

Since its inception 33 years ago, the LFA has been a volunteer driven organization that is supported by individuals and families who are most directly affected by lupus.  While awareness of lupus has risen in recent years, so has the demand for LFA’s support services.  The LFA collaborates with leading lupus scientists and clinicians to conduct research on lupus, translate scientific findings into medically sound information and programs, and provide services to people with lupus and their families.  Acting as convener, the LFA brings together all stakeholders with an interest in lupus to greatly advance the science and medicine of lupus, increase awareness, advocate on behalf of people affected by lupus.

How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won't waste it?

The LFA Board of Directors includes more than 20 individuals from business, medicine, academia and philanthropy from across the United States.  The Board meets quarterly to provide oversight and leadership for the organization and to monitor finances to ensure programs and services are delivered effectively and efficiently.  The LFA complies with ethical and operational standards developed by the National Health Council, Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, and Charity Navigator.  The LFA publishes its annual and financial reports online and is proud that it meets all standards established by major oversight organizations. 

Can I Volunteer? How?

The LFA has chapters, branches and support groups serving 32 states.  The LFA conducts 80 Walk for Lupus Now® events in cities across the U.S. each year along with numerous education and public awareness activities.  A complete list of LFA chapters is available on the organization’s website at www.lupus.org.  In addition, the LFA has a network of approximately 20,000 lupus advocates who send letters, emails and faxes to educate federal, state and local officials on the needs of people with lupus.  For more information about lupus advocacy, visit www.lupus.org/advocacy.