Wigs.com & National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF)
Alopecia Areata & NAAF
Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss on the scalp, face, and other areas of the body. People from all ethnic groups and both sexes can develop Alopecia Areata, and each person is affected by this disease uniquely. Often materialized during childhood, Alopecia Areata affects nearly 6.8 million people in the U.S. (source: National Alopecia Areata Foundation). This non-profit organization was established in 1981 with the mission to:
- Support those affected by Alopecia Areata
- Educate the public about this autoimmune disease
- Support research for a cure or acceptable treatment for Alopecia Areata
NAAF’s Mission & Programs
Some of the ways that NAAF lives out their mission is by providing a network of support groups to the global community. One important program they offer is the Youth Mentor Program for those seeking support, advice, and guidance through this disease. Because hair loss has both physical and emotional side effects, this program fosters life-long bonds with those afflicted by the same conditions.
NAAF also provides resources to their community about how to become effective self-advocates for Alopecia Areata. Advocates can become a Legislative Liaison or Health & Research Ambassador to become a patron on behalf of the afflicted who feel unheard and to inform the public in hopes to reduce the stigma of hair loss.
Through fundraising and donations, NAAF supports advanced research for Alopecia Areata treatments that are not only effective and easy-to-use but also safe and affordable. As of December 2019, NAAF has funded research grants totaling more than $5.7 million.
This non-profit has built a community of affected individuals, medical professionals, research scientists, biopharmaceutical developers and government representatives whose main goal is to encourage conversation, connection, and continuity, which is why Wigs.com wanted to start an initiative with this organization.
Wigs.com & NAAF
Back in 2018, Wigs.com partnered with NAAF because we felt that our visions aligned. Both organizations’ purposes are to support those affected by hair loss and provide an environment that encourages conversation, awareness and normality.
How You Can Help
In honor of Alopecia Areata Awareness Month, Wigs.com is providing an opportunity for you to donate to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation. During the month of September 2020, you’ll be prompted to add a 95¢ donation to NAAF during order checkout.
This small act can make a big difference for those affected by Alopecia Areata. Help us reach our $4,000 fundraising goal!
Update: We're proud to announce that we raised over $4,700 for NAAF during our fundraising initiative in September 2020!
Thank you to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) for allowing us to share their initiative with the Wigs.com community!
