Donating a kidney is a big decision, with many factors for potential donors to take into consideration. A common barrier to donation is the loss of income faced by donors while recovering from surgery. Fortunately, the American Society of Transplantation became aware of this concern, and the Living Donor Circle of Excellence was created. Learn more about it here.* 

What is the Living Donor Circle of Excellence? 

In the United States alone, there are nearly 100,000 people needing a transplant. Sadly, the loss of wages during surgery recovery inhibits many people from donating. To remove this barrier, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) partnered with the American Society of Transplantation to help bridge the gap between organs needed and transplants received. 

The Circle of Excellence, or the Circle, is a no-cost company program that recognizes and celebrates employers that offer paid leave to employees who become living donors. 

What are the objectives?

To encourage an increase in living donations, the program aims to: 

• Raise awareness of the option of living donations,
• Reduce financial barriers for potential donors, and
• Make it easier for someone to “yes” to donating an organ and saving a life.

How can a company join the Circle? 

Employers can join the Circle by implementing a human resources (HR) policy that offers four weeks or more of at least 80% salary support. With only approximately 4 of every 100,000 people becoming living donors, employers can offer a living donation leave policy at a low cost. 

If you are an employee, you can encourage your HR team to help support this important movement to save lives. By completing a simple form, employers can learn more about the requirements and steps to become part of the Circle. 

*Living Donor Circle of Excellence. (2022, October 7). National Kidney Foundation. https://www.kidney.org/circle-excellence