Company Profile
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Company Overview
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive systems of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide).
A defective gene causes the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that:
-clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and
-obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.
In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.
Since 1955, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has been the driving force behind the pursuit of a cure. Thanks to the dedication and financial support from patients, families, clinicians, researchers, volunteers, individual donors, corporations and staff, we are making a difference.
Help Us Make A Difference In Their Lives...
Looking for a rewarding career that also helps to improve the lives of others? We’re seeking passionate, motivated people to join our team. Whether you're just beginning a career or looking for more exciting challenges, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has a wide variety of opportunities available.
You can make your impact on the front lines at one of 80 chapters and branch offices nationwide. You can also support the quest for a cure from our national headquarters in Bethesda, MD, just outside of Washington, D.C. In any position, you’ll help add tomorrows every day for people with cystic fibrosis!
Take a minute to explore our employment opportunities and submit your resume. Periodically check our site at www.cff.org under Employment Opportunities, as open positions are updated daily.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply for an open position regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, qualified disability, marital status or any other legally protected status.
Company History
When the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation was established in 1955, children with cystic fibrosis (CF) were not expected to live long enough to attend elementary school. Thanks, in large part, to the Foundation’s aggressive investments in innovative research and comprehensive care, the median survival age for people with this disease is now nearly 37 years.
After more than 50 years of service, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation remains committed to its core mission: to develop more therapies that will extend and enhance the lives of those with cystic fibrosis and ultimately to find a cure or control for CF.
A Model of Efficiency...
The CF Foundation comprises a cohesive team of individuals working together: patients and their families, researchers and caregivers, donors, volunteers and staff who will not rest until a cure is found.
The CF Foundation has been recognized by publications such as SmartMoney as one of the most efficient organizations of its kind. Nearly 90 percent of every dollar of revenue raised is available for investment in vital CF programs to support research, care, and education.
Leaders in Scientific Progress...
As the leading organization tackling cystic fibrosis, the CF Foundation is the primary catalyst and sponsor of critical research that is making tremendous advances toward curing and controlling the disease.
In 1989, CF Foundation-supported scientists discovered the cystic fibrosis gene. This discovery was a monumental breakthrough on the road to a cure, as it enabled new research to target the root cause of the disease, not just the symptoms.
The Foundation has adopted an innovative business approach to drug discovery and development that is emulated by other non-profits, and recognized by organizations including the National Institutes of Health and publications such as Forbes and USA Today.
Today, there are more than 25 potential new therapies in the Foundation’s drug discovery and development pipeline. By continually adding to the pipeline, the Foundation increases the chances of producing successful therapies and finding a cure.
Virtually every approved cystic fibrosis drug therapy available today was made possible because of the Foundation and its supporters. Since the 1980s, the Foundation has played an integral role in the development and FDA approval of four therapies used for cystic fibrosis: Pulmozyme®, TOBI®, azithromycin and, most recently, hypertonic saline.
Serving Families Nationwide...
The Foundation funds and accredits more than 115 cystic fibrosis care centers nationwide. Located at major teaching and community hospitals, the centers offer comprehensive specialized, age-appropriate care for people living with cystic fibrosis, as well as medical, educational and psychosocial resources for families. They are the best places for patients to receive a proper diagnosis.
The Cystic Fibrosis Services Pharmacy—a wholly owned subsidiary of the Foundation—offers easy access to specialized cystic fibrosis medications. The pharmacy also helps families navigate the insurance reimbursement process and advocates for referrals to social services organizations that can help obtain medicines.
As an advocacy group, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation presents a unified voice that is heard from the halls of Congress and state houses to the corridors of insurance carriers and research labs.
Raising Funds, Raising Hope...
More than 250,000 dedicated volunteers devote their time and talents to help raise funds for research and medical programs. They are the engine of the Foundation and make progress possible.
Because the Foundation receives no federal funding, it depends on the generosity of individual donors, corporations and foundations.
Each year, 500 sites across the country host the CF Foundation’s GREAT STRIDES walks, which raise millions of dollars for cystic fibrosis research and care programs. The Foundation’s 80 chapters and branch offices also host thousands of other special fund-raising events year-round, such as golf tournaments, celebrity concerts, and dinner dances.
Donors who give to the CF Foundation can be sure that their contributions will be used wisely and well. Having met the Better Business Bureau’s standard of good giving for a charitable organization, the CF Foundation bears the BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance seal.
How Can You Help?
Volunteer with the Foundation and help add more tomorrows to the lives of those living with cystic fibrosis.
Donate to the Foundation and support efforts to enhance and extend the lives of cystic fibrosis patients and ultimately to find a cure.
Raise awareness about cystic fibrosis and encourage others to join the fight.
Learn more about these and other opportunities at www.cff.org, or call (800) FIGHT CF.
Notable Accomplishments / Recognition
In 1989, CF Foundation-supported scientists discovered the cystic fibrosis gene. This discovery was a monumental breakthrough on the road to a cure, as it enabled new research to target the root cause of the disease, not just the symptoms.