Waitlist Zero

Overview

Waitlist Zero is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the number of living kidney donations. The organization aims to eliminate the kidney transplant waitlist by promoting awareness, education, and policy changes that encourage living donations.

History

Waitlist Zero was founded in 2014 by Thomas Kelly and Josh Morrison, both of whom have personal connections to kidney donation. The organization was established in response to the growing need for kidney transplants and the lengthy wait times faced by patients on the transplant list.

Mission

The mission of Waitlist Zero is to make living kidney donation a more common and supported practice. The organization seeks to achieve this by advocating for policies that support donors, providing education to the public about the benefits and safety of living donation, and working to remove barriers that potential donors face.

Activities

Waitlist Zero engages in a variety of activities to promote its mission:

• Advocacy: The organization works with policymakers to create legislation that supports living donors, such as providing financial assistance and job protection.
• Education: Waitlist Zero provides resources and information to potential donors and recipients about the process and benefits of living kidney donation.
• Community Engagement: The organization hosts events and workshops to raise awareness and encourage community involvement in kidney donation.

Impact

Since its inception, Waitlist Zero has contributed to several policy changes that benefit living donors. The organization has also increased public awareness about the importance of living kidney donation, leading to a rise in the number of people considering becoming donors.

Challenges

Despite its successes, Waitlist Zero faces challenges such as overcoming misconceptions about living donation and addressing the financial and logistical barriers that potential donors encounter. The organization continues to work towards solutions that make living donation more accessible and supported.

Future Goals

Waitlist Zero aims to continue its advocacy efforts and expand its educational programs. The organization hopes to see a significant reduction in the kidney transplant waitlist and an increase in the number of living donors in the coming years.