About the Nonprofit
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JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our strength lies in our exclusive focus and singular influence on the worldwide effort to end T1D.
JDRF works every day to change the reality of this disease for millions of people—and to prevent anyone else from ever knowing it—by funding research, advocating for government support of research and new therapies, ensuring new therapies come to market and connecting and engaging the T1D community. Founded by parents determined to find a cure for their children with T1D, JDRF expanded through grassroots fundraising and advocacy efforts to become a powerhouse in the scientific community with dozens of U.S. locations and five international affiliates. We’ve funded more than $2 billion in research to date and made significant progress in understanding and fighting the disease. We must keep up the pace of funding so progress doesn’t slow or stop entirely.
The JDRF Gala is one of the premiere social and charitable events in Fort Worth, with a reputation of elegance, excellence, and fun! This year’s gala, to be held Saturday, April 2, 2022, will help make the dream of turning type one into type none a reality.
Under the leadership of Gala Chairs, Andrea and J.W. Wilson, the 2022 JDRF Gala will honor Bonnie and Alan Petsche, and will take place at the Fort Worth Zoo. Bonnie and Alan Petsche co-founded the JDRF Fort Worth-Arlington Chapter after their daughter, Kate, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1994. From that moment on, the Petsches jumped in with incredible passion and started the chapter’s first Gala in 1995, named BBQ at the Ballpark, held at the Texas Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. From the first BBQ at the Ballpark in 1995 until today, the family has generously given of their time and resources to impact the diabetes community.
