Northwest Kidney Centers launches capital campaign for comprehensive kidney resource center

Northwest Kidney Centers has launched a campaign to raise $1.5 million of the $5 million needed to turn one of its buildings into a comprehensive kidney resource center. Northwest Kidney Centers, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary as the first dialysis organization in the world, has already raised $1.25 million from early donations.

A lead gift of $450,000 was made from the estate of John and Susie Morganti, long-time supporters of the organization. PACCAR Inc., a supporter of Northwest Kidney Centers for 46 years, donated $100,000.

"This new comprehensive kidney resource center, unique in the United States, will house an array of patient-focused services," said Joyce F. Jackson, chief executive and president of Northwest Kidney Centers. "In addition to an updated community dialysis clinic, the center will house our expanded kidney-specialty pharmacy and a clinical research center for kidney research."

The building also will include three new conference rooms, an education and training center for new dialysis patients, and a demonstration kitchen to expand teaching and learning opportunities for patients, families, physicians and the community.

The first floor will include a Heritage Gallery showcasing artifacts that illustrate Northwest Kidney Centers'' standing as the first out-of-hospital dialysis provider in the world.

"We want this to be a valuable resource for all of our patients and their families, a place where they can learn about ways to improve their health and manage their disease," Jackson said.