patient programs
about the programs
our mission in action
In our effort to empower patients and families affected by kidney disease, throughout the year the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois organizes a calendar of free, educational seminars focused on connecting patients and caregivers with resources and information. Topics vary depending on the event, but typically, each installment consists of one or two large presentations; a series of intimate, expert-led conversations rooted in kidney-health; and a moderated panel discussion.
Every NKFI educational event is developed in close collaboration with healthcare providers, researchers, and clinicians. Programs are designed with the utmost care, and are always constructed with the needs of patients and families in mind. It is our goal to make it as easy as possible for patients to find answers to their questions, connect directly with medical experts, and get the information they need when they need it.
the events
Kidney Connections
May 15, 2025 | Lupus & Kidney Disease | Webinar 2
September 13, 2025 | Chicago
November 13, 2025 | Nutrition & Kidney Health | Webinar 3
Kidney Connections provides an opportunity to make connections with the kidney community, including patients, and experts, so we can have a conversation and learn from each other. Each year, we will host three engaging webinars covering a variety of topics and one in-person event designed to foster meaningful connections.
Take Charge
August 19 - October 7, 2025 | Virtual
Take Charge: Chronic Disease Self Management Program is a nine-week, 2-hour workshop to help participants better self-manage their chronic condition through a variety of skills and tools. Workshops are designed for patients to help better manage health condition(s) or caregivers of someone with chronic condition(s).
The Big Ask, The Big Give
May 17, 2025 | Chicago, IL
This 4-hour training program is designed to help kidney patients find a living donor. Created for kidney patients on the waitlist, family members, friends, and potential living donors, this workshop provides education about living donation and transplant and teaches 7 Key Strategies for finding a living donor, taught in a highly interactive and engaging format.
our sponsors
fueling the future of medicine
The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois is able to offer free patient screening programs and community health seminars through the support of passionate donors, and a remarkable team of dedicated sponsors.
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For more information on sponsoring any of these programs, please contact Rachel DePauw at rdepauw@nkfi.org.
become a supporter
you make the difference
Fuel the future of the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois and help support programming for patients, families, and communities by joining us in our fight. Click below to learn more about how you can play a major role in our work.
