Membership Basics

Why should I join CCFA? 

The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to finding cures for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improving the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. Joining CCFA gives you unique access to our services and information, while at the same time helping to support our three mission critical programs: research, education, and support services.

Our research program has provided more than $127 million for IBD research, with over $16 million invested in the coming year. Educational workshops and symposia within CCFA's patient and professional services—together with our scientific journal, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases—enable medical professionals to keep pace with the rapidly growing field of IBD research. Our recently established Information Resource Center provides information, guidance and support by masters-level health professionals five days a week. Additionally, we offer more than 300 support groups across the United States, advocate to increase federal research funding and promote postive quality of life legislation for IBD patients, and run Camp Oasis, a multi-day summer camp program for young people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Who qualifies for professional membership?

All licensed physicians and licensed medical professionals qualify for CCFA Professional membership.

How do I become a member?

There are three easy ways to become a member of CCFA:

• Online via our secure server
• Over the phone by calling 800-932-2423 x7412
• Mailing a check or credit card information to
       CCFA National Processing Center:
       PO Box 1245
      Albert Lea, MN 56007

When will my membership begin?

Your membership will begin after your initial dues are received and processed. We currently have two membership cycles, June and December. Depending on when you join, your membership will expire either on June 30 or December 31. Membership is good for a full calendar year.

When will I be asked to renew my CCFA membership?

Membership renewal reminders will be mailed to you at an address you provide 30-45 days before your membership expires.

Membership Benefits

What are the benefits of membership?

Professional membership benefits include:

• Annual subscription to Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Journal (12 issues per year), including online access to archived journals
• Annual subscription to Take Charge, the Foundation's semi-annual national magazine
• Listing in CCFA's online physician directory
• Annual subscription to Under the Microscope, a semi-annual research and news bulletin
• Access to opportunities and news the CCFA Professional Web site
• Unlimited number of complimentary individual memberships for your patients, which will provide them with access to our education and support services
• Newsletters and updates from your local chapter
• First consideration & discounts on professional and patient education events
• Discounts on publications and events

When will I receive my member benefits?

Once your membership dues are received and processed you will be sent a welcome package including: an acknowledgement letter which serves as a receipt for your gift, a membership card, and a certificate stating you are a CCFA Professional member. These packets typically mail four to six weeks after your gift is received. Your initial packet will be followed by your subscriptions to Take Charge magazine, Under the Microscope, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Journal, news bulletins and other periodic updates from your local chapter.

What is the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Journal?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Journal is the official medical journal of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation and the first journal dedicated exclusively to IBD.

How do I access the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Journal online?

Online access for the Inflammatory Bowl Disease Journal is only available to those with a valid membership. For information on how to gain online access please contact the Foundation at 800-932-2423 x7412 or by email.

What is Under The Microscope?

Under the Microscope is a research and news bulletin that informs our members about new medical findings and the impact they have on those who suffer from Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

What is Take Charge?

Take Charge is the foundation's semi-annual national magazine which covers medical updates, new research findings, fundraising, chapter activities, events and more.

How do I request a replacement membership kit?

To request a replacement membership, please contact us at 800-932-2423 x7412 or by email.

Membership Dues

What are our different membership categories and dues?

Professional membership categories and dues are:

• Premier Physician - $400
• Participating Physician - $300
• Healthcare Professional - $150
• Fellow - $50
• Group ($250 / professional, minimum dues $1,000; to join as a group member please call 800-932-2423, x7412 for details)

Are membership dues tax deductible?

Yes, membership dues are tax deductible.

How do I address billing discrepancies?

To address billing discrepancies, please contact us at 800-932-2423 x7412 or by email.

Questions/Updating Your Information

How do I update my address, e-mail, phone number or Website listing?

Updated contact information can be submitted to CCFA by email, or by phone at 800-932-2423 x7412.

Where can I direct membership questions?

We are here to answer your membership questions Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm EST. Membership questions can be directed to our Membership Coordinator by email or 800-932-2423 x7412.

How do I request educational material for distribution?

You may request education materials by completing this online form, or by contacting us at 800-932-2423 ext 7412 or by email.

updated 4/15/08