The American College of Rheumatology Research and Education Foundation was established in 1985 as a 501(c)(3) with a mission of advancing research and training to improve the health of people with rheumatic diseases.

Since its founding, the REF has promoted and advanced the field of rheumatology by funding research, training and education opportunities for clinicians, students, health professionals, researchers and academic institutions. As a highly effective medical research organization with remarkable efficiency in directing donor dollars to its mission, the REF has received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, America's largest and most utilized independent evaluator of charities.

On average, 90 cents out of every dollar donated to the REF is used to fund its extensive awards and grants program.