Who We Are
The National Kidney Foundation, Inc., a major voluntary health organization, seeks to prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases, improve the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and increase the availability of all organs for transplantation.
Our Goals
- Supporting Research and Research Training
- Continuing Education of Health Care Professionals
- Expanding Patient Services and Community Resources
- Educating the Public
- Shaping Health Policy
- Fund Raising
Our History
The NKF Serving Eastern Missouri & the Metro East was founded in St. Louis in 1968 by a small group of people who had a personal involvement with kidney disease. It was incorporated as a non-profit organization, the Metropolitan St. Louis Kidney Foundation. The Foundation was soon awarded a charter by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
During the early years the Foundation's main focus was funding research, as well as buying a number of artificial kidney machines, many of which were used by individuals on free loan basis programs to meet those needs. Today, to reach the ultimate mission of the eradication of all diseases of the kidney and urinary tract, the Foundation supports patient and community services/programs, patient and professional education and a continued commitment to research.
About Us
Meet our staff, Board of Directors and Scientific Advisory Board. 
Our Founder
On November 15, 1950, Mr. and Mrs. Harry DeBold called the first meeting of the Committee for Nephrosis Research. Several months earlier, Mrs. DeBold’s infant son was stricken with nephrosis, a condition of which little was known and for which little could be done. Her determination not to succumb to the grim reality of her son’s disease and her affluence and wealth were important elements which led to the formation of the inaugural lay group destined to becomeThe National Kidney Foundation. The Ada DeBold Society was created to help ensure the philanthropic future of the NKF in honor of Mrs. Ada U. DeBold.
By sharing their financial resources and publicly expressing their support, members of The Ada DeBold Society address NKF’s mission to prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases, improve the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and increase the availability of all organs for transplantation. This framework of support helps the NKF plan for the present and look to the future. More information about The Ada DeBold Society.
