East Tennessee Kidney Foundation

About East Tennessee Kidney Foundation

Our Mission East Tennessee Kidney Foundation, Inc.™ (ETKF) is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the lives of East Tennesseans through early detection of kidney disease, education, and access to vital care. ETKF proudly operates independently and is 100% LOCAL. We are not affiliated with the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). All funds raised by ETKF remain in our community, directly supporting local individuals battling kidney disease. As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, ETKF channels all resources towards fulfilling our mission, ensuring no profits are dispersed to shareholders. Our funding sources include donations, grants, and various fundraising initiatives. Our Impact Knox Shamrock Fest™ and the Lucky Kidney Run Our flagship event, Knox Shamrock Fest™, is a beloved St. Patrick's Day celebration held annually at World's Fair Park Performance Lawn in downtown Knoxville. Featuring the Lucky Kidney Run (6k and 2k walk options), this event has grown into a regional weekend attraction for families, coinciding with Kidney Disease Awareness Month each March. Patient Services ETKF focuses on improving the lives of East Tennesseans with kidney disease. Our primary initiatives include providing transportation to dialysis treatments, covering up to $2,000 in dental expenses necessary for kidney transplant eligibility, and distributing FREE nutritional supplements to local dialysis clinics. Additionally, we partner with Tennessee Donor Services / Donate Life Tennessee to promote organ donation, emphasizing the unique opportunity of kidney donation from living donors. Community Impact Each year, ETKF serves over 1,500 local East Tennesseans affected by kidney disease. Our operations rely solely on grants, donations (monetary and in-kind), fundraisers, and the unwavering support of our community. Your contributions enable us to continue our vital work in supporting kidney disease patients across East Tennessee.