what we do
Diabetes Action has provided grants to hundreds of researchers at universities and medical institutions across the United States. In addition to funding research to cure diabetes with gene therapies, immunotherapy, and beta cell transplantation, Diabetes Action funds research on nutrition and research to treat and prevent complications. Diabetes Action has funded innovative type 1 and type 2 diabetes studies that include:
Cure of type 1 diabetes using a generic drug
Massachusetts General HospitalCinnamon and chromium antioxidant studies
USDA Beltsville Human Nutrition Research CenterAcupuncture for treating neuropathy
Harvard Medical SchoolPrecision biologics for the treatment of type 1 diabetes
Albert Einstein College of Medicine3D bioprinting for fabrication of pancreatic devices
Penn State UniversityNovel Immunotherapy to treat diabetes-induced kidney failure
University of Maryland School of MedicineManuka honey to improve diabetic wound healing
Saint Louis University
send a kid to diabetes camp
Each summer, thousands of children with diabetes attend camps that teach valuable skills and nurture self-esteem while providing the fun and adventure of traditional summer camp. In 2024, Diabetes Action provided funding to 52 camps across the U.S.
These camps provide a support system not available in any other setting where children are surrounded by other campers and counselors with similar experiences who understand the daily struggles of living with diabetes. Diabetes Action received many thank you letters from campers such as from an 11-year-old boy who stated, “I am EXTREMELY grateful for what you have done to help me pay for camp, where I can develop a better sense of belonging and meet new friends like me.”
Without financial assistance many children would not be able to take advantage of this life-changing opportunity, and we are grateful that we can help make it possible to fulfill the dreams of so many children.
American indian diabetes prevention program
In 2024, the Cheyenne River Youth Project (CRYP), with support from Diabetes Action, provided a full schedule of health and wellness programming for youth ages 4-18. Located on the Cheyenne River Reservation in South Dakota, CRYP is dedicated to giving Lakota youth and families opportunities to strengthen their community through culturally sensitive activities. The program aims to reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes, which is more prevalent among American Indians than any other population in the U.S., by increasing opportunities for healthy eating and improving access to exercise. Teen internship programs help empower youth to learn and practice valuable skills such as organic gardening and cooking with traditional ingredients. A new beekeeping operation produced 40 pounds of honey in its first year! Other holistic wellness programs included exercise classes, midnight basketball sessions, hiking, and camping.