The Idaho Chapter of the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation (NBDF Idaho) and the Snake River Hemophilia & Bleeding Disorders Association (Snake River) have announced plans to merge, forming a single statewide organization that will operate as NBDF Idaho within the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation’s national chapter network.
The combined organization will serve individuals and families affected by bleeding disorders—including hemophilia and von Willebrand disease—across Idaho, expanding access to education, support programs, and advocacy resources.
Snake River was founded in 2005 by three families affected by bleeding disorders, Chad Stevens, Dana Pope, and Kristen Ward, to provide a support network for families in southeastern Idaho. Over the past two decades, the organization has delivered educational programming, peer support, and advocacy, including Camp Red Sunrise, a long-running family camp that connects families from across the region.
NBDF Idaho has served the Idaho bleeding disorders community for more than thirty years and operates as the state’s official chapter of the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation, a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of people with bleeding disorders. Through its statewide programs, NBDF Idaho provides education, community engagement, and advocacy initiatives that support people living with bleeding disorders and their families.
Merger strengthens statewide reach and sustainability
The merger was undertaken to strengthen long-term sustainability while expanding services to more families across Idaho.
“The National Bleeding Disorders Foundation is committed to building strong, resilient chapters,” said Kristi Harvey-Simi, vice president of chapter development at NBDF. “Families in Idaho will benefit from expanded programming, deeper community connections, and a more unified voice for advocacy.”
The two organizations have collaborated for years on programs including Camp Red Sunrise and the Victory for Women Retreat, a program focused on supporting women and girls with bleeding disorders, as well as additional community events throughout the state.
Programs to continue with expanded resources
Kymm Shaw, formerly executive director of Snake River and now programs director for NBDF Idaho, said families can expect continuity in core programs. “Camp Red Sunrise will continue, along with many of the programs our community relies on,” she said. “As part of the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation’s chapter network, we’ll also have access to new tools and resources to better support our families.”
“We are committed to meeting the evolving needs of families across the entire state.” said Marlyn Walker, executive director of NBDF Idaho. “By bringing our organizations together, we are creating new opportunities for connection and support.”
Shaw and Walker are looking forward to working together for their combined communities. “I think this a positive change for families across Idaho,” said Shaw. “We can build something that can grow with our community and make sure that every family living with a bleeding disorder in Idaho feels supported, understood, and not alone.”
