Philadelphia, PA (September 17, 2013) – The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA) will be hosting an anniversary celebration commemorating ten successful years of advocacy and recognizing ten honorees integral to NFCA’s achievements. On October 10^th, 2013 at The Arts Ballroom (1324 Locust Street), donors, sponsors, and other members of the gluten-free community will enjoy a rare opportunity to experience the culinary innovation of world-class chef Stephen Starr in a setting free of gluten. Open to the public, this event, which includes a silent auction, is an opportunity to join in celebrating an incredibly accomplished decade of gluten-free advocacy. More information, including ticket purchases, can be found at https://www.beyondceliac.org/10years/celebrate/.

“We are thrilled to commemorate ten years of accomplishments and progress,” said NFCA President Alice Bast. “In honor of our decennial, we will recognize ten members of the gluten-free community whose contributions and involvement have advanced our mission to improve the quality of life for those on a lifelong gluten-free diet.” Anniversary honorees include: Dorothy Binswanger, Ed Snider, Bill Green, Richard Binswanger, Joseph F. Coradino, Bea, Bob & Will Bast, Frank Carey, Fran & Don MacMaster, Peter Vogt, and Ann & Walter Waldie.

Since 2003, NFCA has been the most prominent voice for restoring health and reclaiming lives for those with celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders. Their education efforts have facilitated a nearly 15% increase in diagnosis of the disorder. And in recognizing the needs of the growing population of individuals with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten-sensitivity, NFCA has motivated and offered expertise to national grocery and super store brands, restaurants and other food providers on how to sell and prepare safe, affordable and appetizing gluten-free products. Their active consulting and advocacy has helped grow the gluten-free market into a $12.4 billion industry.

“The work that NFCA does is unmatched and indispensable,” said Ed Snider, founder of the Philadelphia Flyers, who has celiac disease. “In the last ten years, their dedication to the advancement of diagnosis and accessible gluten-free food options has made it possible for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to live without fear.” Mr. Snider is a member of NFCA’s board of directors.

NFCA’s anniversary celebration will benefit the ongoing work of the organization. Specifically, this event will raise funds to support the areas where aid is most urgent:

• NFCA surveyed nearly 1,000 gluten-free college students and learned that 60% report getting sick from potential gluten exposure in their dining halls. GREAT SCHOOLS, COLLEGES AND CAMPS provides critically important training for foodservice providers in cafeterias and dining halls across the country to ensure food safety for children and young adults.
• An astounding 83% of people who have celiac disease remain undiagnosed and needlessly sick. If left untreated, celiac disease can lead to severe health problems, such as cancer and infertility. PRIMARY CARE CME: DEFINING, DIAGNOSING, AND MANAGING CELIAC DISEASE educates primary care physicians nationwide to increase diagnoses and improve the lives of millions of patients.
• Driven by a passion to improve the quality of life of those with celiac disease, NFCA is an active contributor to the expanding world of celiac disease research. The NFCA RESEARCH INITIATIVE FUND will help physicians, scientists and researchers discover new ways to improve diagnosis and treatment.

About the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness
Through empowerment, education, advocacy and advancing research, the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (NFCA) drives diagnoses of celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders and improves the quality of life for those on a lifelong gluten-free diet. For more information, please visit www.beyondceliac.org.

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