OREF Overview

The Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation (OREF) is the one foundation serving the entire orthopaedic community.

In 1955, leaders of the major professional organizations in the specialty — the American Orthopaedic Association, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Orthopaedic Research Society — established OREF as a means of supporting research and education toward building the scientific base of clinical practice. Since 1955, the Foundation has raised nearly $95 million and holds a unique place in American medicine.

Our Vision

OREF will be the leader in supporting orthopaedic research to improve function, eliminate pain and restore mobility.

Our  Mission

Improving lives by supporting excellence in orthopaedic research.

How do we fund research and education?

Through gifts from orthopaedic surgeons, practice groups, medical centers, and industry we support research and education initiatives funded by OREF and by partner organizations.

Governance

The Board of Trustees consists of approximately twenty individuals: orthopaedic surgeons and lay persons. The board is responsible for the governance of the foundation, while foundation personnel are responsible for daily operations.

Broad professional representation is found on one additional board and a committee of the Foundation — the Grants Board and the Shands Circle Committee.

Financial Information

OREF financial statements are presented on an accrual accounting
basis with 2013 grants expense being funded by 2012 contribution
revenues. Donations received in 2013 will be used for 2014 grants.

OREF received 2013 funding from more than 1,992 individuals and 35 corporate partners. OREF’s enhanced focus on research resulted in more than $1.4 million in gifts directed to the new research fund. Annual giving also increased 48% to $1.8 million.OREF secured support from 10 new, increased or re-engaged corporate supporters, thereby increasing corporate support by 28% more than 2012.

Fundraising and general administrative expenses were lower than prior years as a result of focused cost-controls and efficiencies realized as OREF transitions out of programs not aligned with its mission.

Investment earnings were 9.43%, a strong showing in light of general investment markets.

OREF has a strong balance sheet reflecting increased financial health.

 

Financial Statements

2013 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation Financial Statements

2012 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation Financial Statements

990 Forms

2013 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation Form 990 Part 1
2013 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation Form 990 Part 2

2012 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation Form 990

 

 

Annual Reports

2013 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation Annual Report2013 OREF Annual Report

 

2012 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation Annual Report2012 OREF Annual Report

"OREF is the only independent, surgeon-driven organization supporting research in the musculoskeletal area. With more funding, we can increase the number of grants awarded. There is nothing more disappointing than when we are unable to fund worthy grant applications because we do not have the resources."

Thomas A. Einhorn, MD
OREF Board of Trustees