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IBD Support Services

At CCFA, the philosophy behind our education and support programs is quite simple: Patients and their families don't have to deal with IBD by themselves. CCFA is here to help. This may mean many things: from up-to-date medical information about IBD, to practical help on finding a doctor, to putting people in touch with others facing the same challenges.

Below are some of the efforts sponsored by local chapters. Please use our chapter directory to find out what is available in your area.

Support Groups

Each year, chapters hold more than 300 support groups, where patients and family members can connect to others struggling to cope with these diseases.

Education Programs

Chapters also conduct dozens of live education programs for patients and health-care professionals. An important focus on the local level is children and their families.

CCFA Camp Oasis

CCFA Camp Oasis hosts 14 local and regional camps for children with IBD, and many chapters also sponsor Family Days throughout the year.

Community Outreach

Outreach to the community at large comes through two nationwide grassroots events, (Take Steps and Team Challenge), public education, and awareness programs about IBD. Other special events, such as galas and luncheons, help our chapters to raise funds that make it possible for CCFA to meet our goals.

Educational Materials

Chapters also provide educational brochures free of charge and publish newsletters for their members.

Local Fundraising Initiatives

A successful chapter initiative has been the Chapter Research Alliance. This allows a chapter to pool money from a group of local donors who want to sponsor a research grant, but may not be able to do so individually. By contributing as a group, these donors can fund research grants as part of a larger alliance of people working together.

CCFA chapters bring the Foundation's mission and goals to communities across America. More than 40 staffed and volunteer chapters and affiliates around the country provide the supportive services that are hallmarks of the foundation's commitment to helping patients and their families. Our chapters are the voice and the face of CCFA around the country. For more information on your local chapter programs, use our chapter directory.

updated 02/06/08