The Immune Deficiency Foundation offers a broad array of programs responsive to the needs of the younger members of the IDF community.
Youth programs are offered at every IDF National Conference and Retreat. These kid-friendly gatherings offer education and fun for children, up to age 18, who are diagnosed with a primary immunodeficiency disease or have a family member with this condition. While parents are attending educational sessions, their children will benefit from programs developed especially for them.
Everyone involved enjoys hands-on activities, and medical professionals, IDF Teen & Young Adult Council Members and Mentors, lead the festivities. Both fun and informative, IDF Youth Programs boost spirits, help children understand their primary immunodeficiency disease, and connect often-isolated youth with peers that are facing similar circumstances.
Are youth programs offered at Local Education Meetings?
Occasionally, a Local Education Meeting includes a youth program. When a Youth Program is available, information will be included on the invitation and Calendar of Events. Children, age 5 to 18, who are diagnosed with a primary immunodeficiency disease or have a family member with this condition, are invited to attend. While parents are attending educational meetings, youth enjoy fun, age-appropriate activities and sessions plus time to meet others in the primary immunodeficiency community. IDF staff, volunteers, medical professionals and educators direct the program. IDF Youth Programs boost spirits, understand primary immunodeficiency disease and connect isolated youth with peers.
When a youth program is not available, parents are welcome to bring their children to a Local Education Meeting. However, the parents will be responsible for the child’s care.
Click here for a list of upcoming Youth Programs
IDF Youth, Teen, and Young Adult programming is supported by CSL Behring, Grifols, Horizon Therapeutics, and Takeda