Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Diabetes Research Institute?
The Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in cure-focused diabetes research, pioneering new technologies in islet transplantation and other cellular therapies. To learn more, visit www.diabetesresearch.org.

2. What is the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation?
The sole mission of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation is to provide the funding necessary to the DRI to cure this disease. Supported by private philanthropy, the DRI Foundation has been and always will be the organization of choice for those who are serious, passionate and committed to finding a cure. Run for Diabetes is one of the Foundation’s many fundraising and awareness programs.

3. Why do you need my support?
Chances are you know someone with diabetes. It affects people from all social, economic and ethnic backgrounds. It is a serious, chronic condition with potential short-term and long-term complications.

The DRI is the most comprehensive diabetes research center in the world, housing basic, pre-clinical and clinical research activities under one roof at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Scientists working within these three research levels share and build on each other’s results, ensuring that progress is made as quickly as possible.

Private sector support plays a critical role in this progress. These contributions are the seed money that DRI scientists use to pursue new ideas. Once preliminary work is done and enough data is collected to show that the research is promising, the scientists can apply for competitive grants through the National Institutes of Health and other large funding organizations. Without the seed money provided by individuals like you, there would be very little funding available to test novel ideas.

4. How can I be sure that the money I raise will be used wisely?
People affected by diabetes today are more knowledgeable about research – as a result, more aware of the DRI’s achievements – and they want to be a part of it. They’re taking a close look at where their donations go. They want to be sure their money is making a difference and know they are personally helping to advance research. They can see and feel this at the DRI. The original mission of the Foundation’s founding parents remains the same – to find a cure for those living with diabetes.

5. Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes! Written notification of your donation will be delivered by email.

6. Do I have to have diabetes to dedicate my run to the cause?
No – you just have to want to make a difference in the lives of those who do. For the 21 million Americans who suffer with this disease every day, your support can help change their hope for a cure into reality.

7. Will I need permission from anyone to run for diabetes?
Many events are not associated with a charitable organization and encourage participants to run for a cause. If a charity is associated with the event, funds raised on behalf of the DRI do not preclude you from any fee requirements of a specific event. If you are under 18, you must check with your parents before sending out solicitations.

8. Do I have to create my own donor page?
No. If you choose not to create a personal donation page, you can solicit contributions by making personal phone calls or distributing letters. Create your own letter, or click here to select one. Letters can be mailed or emailed. Via email, be sure to include a link to the DRI website, www.diabetesresearch.org. Always remember to send a thank you note to those who pledge their support.

9. Once I collect the funds, how do I submit the donation to you?
If donations have come directly to you, please mail them to:
Diabetes Research Institute Foundation
Att: Run for Diabetes
200 South Park Road, Suite 100
Hollywood, FL 33021

10. If I need help, how do I contact you?
To contact us, click here and we will be glad to answer any questions you might have.