About IDEAS

Our Mission

The North American Intestinal Disease Education and Awareness Society raises awareness of intestinal diseases through education and public awareness campaigns. IDEAS provides quality of life enhancing programs for children and young adults afflicted with intestinal diseases and their families. IDEAS conducts advocacy programs on behalf of all people living with intestinal diseases.

Our Vision

A society free of social stigma attached to intestinal diseases.

Our Principles

Principle

How we will achieve them

Create opportunities for kids with intestinal disease to just be kids

IDEAS coordinates year round, inclusive day camp opportunities in communities that have YMCAs for kids aged 4-18; IDEAS supports kids to take part in overnight summer camp opportunities with the UOAC and CCFC

Teach kids about intestinal disease

IDEAS conducts school talks in classrooms wherever possible

Promote openness of information

IDEAS has the most complete and up-to-date Internet resource for people seeking information and support related to intestinal disease

Work together

IDEAS works with other organizations and healthcare professionals to find common opportunities and share best practices

Advocate for inclusive communities

IDEAS encourages communities to remove barriers for people with ID

Promote a positive outlook

IDEAS education and awareness campaigns promote a positive outlook to living with intestinal disease

Create leadership opportunities

IDEAS embraces volunteers and provides them with true opportunities to lead changes associated with intestinal disease

Seek equality

IDEAS works to ensure that all people with intestinal diseases and ostomies receive fair and equal care, and support for their medical needs

Promote health

IDEAS education and awareness campaigns focus on healthy activities and lifestyle promotion

Listen to our stakeholders

IDEAS works on issues that our stakeholders say are important to them

Provide value for money

IDEAS reports its finances with transparency; donors see how their support translates to making a difference in the lives of children and young adults suffering from intestinal disease, and their families

Celebrate diversity

IDEAS encourages everyone to contribute in an environment that recognizes the personal worth and dignity of each individual

Recognize contributions

IDEAS recognizes the achievements of volunteers and staff; IDEAS recognizes financial considerations from corporations, organizations and individuals