The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to finding the cure for Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis (UC). These gastrointestinal diseases affect 1.4 million Americans, including some 140,000 children under the age of 18. These diseases are painful, humiliating, and incurable.

More than 80 cents of every dollar the CCFA receives is dedicated to research and educational programs.

The CCFA has provided approximately $150 million in research in the last 30 years into the causes and cures for these diseases. The CCFA is supported solely by individual, foundation, and corporate contributions. Compared to other foundations devoted to finding cures for diseases, the CCFA is not nearly as well-funded per patient suffering. For example, in 2008, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, with over 30% fewer patients, was able to raise almost 10 times the amount of money per patient than the CCFA.

The CCFA provides educational programs for patients, physicians, and the public. Through their website, they provide an informational center, over 300 active support groups, and publish the latest medical research on these diseases. The CCFA distributes more than one million pieces of literature each year, as well as hosts educational seminars, forums, and fellowship programs.

The CCFA is among the top rated charities by the American Institute of Philanthropy, one of only 6 "A" ratings given out of 44 charities. The foundation also consistently meets the standards established by the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance.

Essential to the CCFA's mission is the ongoing fundraising efforts through memberships, events, sponsorships, and other programs.

For more information about the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, click here.