CROHNS & COLITIS FOUNDATION OF AMERICA

The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to finding the cure for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. It was founded in 1967 by Irwin M. and Suzanne Rosenthal, William D. and Shelby Modell, and Henry D. Janowitz, M.D.

Four decades ago, the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation created the field of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis research. Today, the Foundation funds cutting-edge studies at major medical institutions, nurtures investigators at the early stages of their careers, and finances underdeveloped areas of research. Educational workshops and symposia, together with our scientific journal, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, enable medical professionals to keep pace with this rapidly growing field. No wonder the National Institutes of Health has commended the Foundation for "uniting the research community and strengthening IBD research."

Since 1967, the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America has led the way in research, advocacy, and patient support for those suffering from Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Through the vision of our founders, Irwin and Suzanne Rosenthal, William and Shelby Modell, and Dr. Henry Janowitz, the Foundation has become the national beacon of hope for those suffering with inflammatory bowel diseases.

The 2010 strategic planning effort, launched in June 2006, builds on the organizational strengths that have developed over the last 40 years. Our course is direct, our vision sure, and our mission unwavering. With input from well over 300 volunteers and staff, the 2010 Strategic Plan charts a course for the future.

Having and following a strategic plan sets successful organizations apart from those that merely muddle along. The Strategic Plan will be relevant to all components of the organization as annual operating plans are developed. It represents a blueprint, and will serve as a roadmap for how we will proceed as one organization to accomplish our mission and goals

Since its inception in 1967, the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) has been at the forefront of medical research in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis—collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

There are two main research categories. Basic research explores the scientific foundations of the diseases. It answers such questions as: What is the underlying cause of Crohn's and colitis? Which genes are involved in these diseases? Although basic research is complex and can be difficult for laypersons to understand, these studies will ultimately lead to the cure for IBD. Clinical research determines which medical and surgical options work best for patients.