Community Action Now

The Arthritis Foundation is the only national nonprofit organization supporting the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions with advocacy, programs, services and research. Arthritis is the nation's number one cause of disability. There are more than 100 forms of arthritis and an estimated 66 million Americans have arthritis and chronic joint symptoms. More than 300,000 people with arthritis are children. Arthritis costs the U.S. economy more than $86.2 billion annually in lost wages. The foundation supports the activities of employers and managed care organizations striving to reduce costs by focusing on providing the preventative care and interventions that reduce the risk of more costly care. Funds for the foundation are raised by individual and business donations and community activities like sponsored walks. The Arthritis Foundation has local chapters across the United States.