EKF is where strength meets support
built by Veterans, led by patients, driven by purpose.
A veteran-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by purpose, driving action to advocate, connect, mentor, and educate for kidney health. We are on a mission to ensure that no one is left BEHIND.
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The Enlisted Kidney Foundation stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Veterans who have been exposed to toxic chemicals, including PFAS "forever chemicals" and are now living with kidney disease.
Our first mission is mentorship. We connect Veterans one-on-one with someone who understands the journey, helping them navigate kidney disease, understand their healthcare options, and never feel like they have to face this battle alone.
From there, we help Veterans connect their service-related exposures to their current health, navigate VA healthcare and PACT Act benefits, identify available resources, and build stronger disability claims when appropriate.
EKF also supports national efforts like H.R. 3639, the Veterans Exposed to Toxic PFAS Act, advocating for presumptive recognition and better care for the Veterans and families harmed by PFAS-contaminated military installations.
The Enlisted Kidney Foundation believes mentorship starts by meeting people where they are.
Through grassroots outreach, our rapidly growing online community, and one of the nation's most engaged TikTok communities for people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), we connect patients, caregivers, Veterans, and families with real people who understand the journey.
Our mission extends beyond social media. We visit local dialysis clinics, participate in community events, and partner with organizations to bring mentorship, education, and trusted kidney health resources directly into the communities we serve.
We're especially committed to improving kidney health equity in Black and Brown communities, where kidney disease has a disproportionate impact. By raising awareness of important genetic risk factors like APOL1, encouraging early screening, and empowering families with trusted information and mentorship, we help turn awareness into action.
Because real impact happens when people feel seen, informed, mentored, and never filtered out.
Kidney disease affects millions of families, yet too many people are navigating it without the guidance they deserve.
Today, more than 1 in 7 Americans are living with chronic kidney disease, and approximately 1 in 6 Veterans are affected, many without even knowing it. Early detection, trusted mentorship, and access to the right resources can change the course of a person's journey.
That's why the Enlisted Kidney Foundation exists.
Our nationally recognized mentorship model connects patients and caregivers with people who have walked the same path, helping them better understand kidney disease, explore treatment and transplant options, navigate the healthcare system, and find hope through community instead of isolation.
Our commitment to patient-centered mentorship has earned national recognition, including the 2024 NephCure Impact Award and the 2026 ASN Cele's Champion Award for our mentorship program, recognition that reflects our belief that the most powerful resource in kidney care is someone who truly understands the journey.
Whether someone has just been diagnosed, is supporting a loved one through dialysis, preparing for transplant, or simply searching for answers, EKF is committed to ensuring they never have to navigate kidney disease alone.
Because when patients and caregivers are empowered, entire families become stronger.
☕Coffee & Conversations
A safe space for real talk.
EKF hosts twice monthly peer-to-peer online VIRTUAL sessions where kidney warriors and caregivers come together to share experiences, ask questions, and build community. This isn’t your average support group — it’s where stories are heard, burdens are shared, and hope is renewed.
🫡 FilterLIFE™ Mentorship Program
The FilterLIFE™ Mentorship Program is the heart of The Enlisted Kidney Foundation. We believe every kidney patient deserves someone who's been there. Whether you're newly diagnosed, preparing for dialysis or transplant, navigating the VA, strengthening a disability claim, or simply trying to understand what comes next, you'll have direct access to our mentorship calendar for ongoing one-on-one guidance from experienced patients and advocates who truly understand the journey.
🇺🇸Capitol Hill Advocacy
Fighting for change where it matters most.
EKF is committed to influencing legislation that protects and supports kidney patients, veterans, and minority communities. We work with lawmakers, testify at hearings, and partner with national organizations to make sure kidney warriors are not left behind. Learn more about this years initiatives below
Join us on the first Saturday of every month at 10:00 AM ET via Zoom and the third Thursday of every month from 7:00–9:00 PM ET on TikTok LIVE (new).
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Need Guidance Today? Schedule a confidential one-on-one mentorship session with an experienced kidney patient advocate. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, the VA, transplant, dialysis, or simply need someone who understands, we're here to help.
Support H.R. 2687 – The End Kidney Deaths Act. If passed, this landmark legislation could eliminate the kidney transplant waitlist by providing living donors with up to $50,000 in refundable tax credits over five years, helping save thousands of lives.
Support H.R. 3639 – The PFAS Exposure Assessment and Documentation Act. This legislation would improve the identification, documentation, and long-term tracking of PFAS exposure, helping veterans and other exposed individuals connect toxic exposures to future health conditions and strengthening access to the care and benefits they deserve.
