January Newsletter 2021
Dear Friends,
A new year is often a time when many of us reflect on the past and look toward the future. Last year was challenging to say the least. We started off 2020 positioned to make it one of the best fundraising years in recent history. Then COVID.
In March, our staff moved home and continued their amazing work remotely. We were able to pivot our spring events and launched Walks, Rides and Galas virtually. We continued to stay connected to our donors through all our online tools. Our Nebraska and Iowa markets combined and realigned our chapter footprint to support broader geographies more efficiently and become a more volunteer-powered organization. Our fall Walk and Gala events exceeded goals in the virtual space. We continue to improve our resources and encourage access for all. There is so much to be proud of. Please take a minute to read the JDRF 2020 Top Advances below.
Through all the challenges and uncertainty, our mission did not change. The commitment of our powerful supporters stayed focused on funding for a cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D).
Now we look forward to 2021. We look forward to going back to our normal life patterns, spending time connecting with our community, meeting people at their comfort and safety level, and improving our programs and events.
What do we need from you? We need to hear from you, we need you to stay strong and focused on what our fundraising can do for diabetes research, and take an active role in the work we do. We cannot do it without you, and we thank you!
Here’s to a great new year,
| Laci Naber | AnnElise Walsh |
| Executive Director | Market Director |
| 402-881-3186 | lnaber@jdrf.org | 319-393-3850 | awalsh@jdrf.org |
JDRF Top 2020 Advances
Without a doubt, the challenges of the last year have left many of us feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. However, there’s news, as well, that we can be proud of. Really proud of because of YOU! Learn about the top advances here.
T1Detect: Learn why you should be screened
T1Detect, JDRF’s NEW screening program, allows anyone, at any age, to get screened for type 1 diabetes (T1D) autoantibodies. Because T1D starts long before insulin dependency, families will be able to prepare, develop a plan for further monitoring with their doctor and hopefully avoid serious and sometimes life-threatening conditions, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The test is easy, simple and can help save lives. For more information and to order a test, visit jdrf.org/t1detect.
JDRF T1D Ambassador Application
The mission of JDRF T1D Ambassador Program is to have children, teens and adults serve as representatives of JDRF in an effort to increase awareness of T1D and the reality of living with it as well as the importance of raising funds to find cures for T1D. Applications now being accepted for 2021.
- Greater Iowa Youth Ambassador Application (ages 5-17)
- Nebraska, Southwest & Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois T1D Ambassador Application (all ages)
Special Diabetes Program (SDP) Renewed!
JDRF is grateful for a 3-yr. $450 million renewal of this critical T1D research funding. THANK YOU to our amazing advocates who worked so hard to make this win a reality. If you haven’t already, thank Congress today! Learn more about the SDP and become a T1D advocate here.
JDRF Official Statement: Authorization of First COVID-19 Vaccine
COVID-19 has taken a significant toll on the diabetes community. A new study shows that people who get COVID and have diabetes, whether type 1 or type 2, have three to four times higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Based on this evidence, JDRF calls upon health care decision makers to make people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes as well as their caregivers a high priority for receiving COVID-19 vaccines. Stay tuned to our social media for updates.
Getinsulin.org
This tool helps meet an immediate need for people in the United States to access insulin while we continue to work on long-term solutions to address insulin affordability. It also complements JDRF’s ‘Help with Costs’ page, which provides people with a variety of ways to access insulin.
2021 Iowa & Western Illinois Spring JDRF One Walks
Join us on May 23rd for the Spring 2021 JDRF One Walks! Any team captain who registers their team by February 5th will receive a “Someone I love has T1D” auto decal! Register today to walk your way at walk.jdrf.org!
Upcoming Events
- January – Hy-Vee JDRF Specials
- January 14 – Virtual Empower1 (Teen T1D Talk) at 7:00 PM
- February 9 – Virtual T1D Talk at Noon
- February 11 – Virtual Empower1 (Teen T1D Talk) at 7:00 PM
Save the Date
- April 17 – 2021 Nebraska-Southwest Iowa JDRF Gala: Stronger Together
- May 23 – JDRF One Walk Spring 2021