We are Student Advocates for Rare Diseases
Empowering the future of advocacy, Student Advocates for Rare Diseases is a one-hundred percent student-run nonprofit based out of Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, near Boston Massachusetts, dedicated to cultivating a global network of compassionate and informed student advocates and volunteers of all ages. We strive to raise awareness, send love and support, drive education, and foster inclusive communities–ensuring that the voices of those affected by rare diseases are heard. Through innovative initiatives, collaborative partnerships, donations, and unwavering dedication, we support students to be catalysts for positive change to shape a world where rare diseases are understood, supported, and ultimately overcome.
"My Grandfather was a teacher in an underprivileged village and a Korean war veteran. My father was a police officer and firefighter. I've never known what I want to do when I'm older, just that whatever happens, I will follow in their footsteps - serving the community and helping others wherever and whenever I can.
- Emily Naum, Founder and President Student Advocates for Rare Diseases
Our Story
The initial idea of creating a nonprofit organization came to our founder, Emily Naum, in July of 2023. At a young age, she lost multiple immediate family members to rare skin cancers. Their treatments were long and painful–doing nothing but prolonging their suffering. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019, but was able to receive quick and effective treatment due to its commonality. Emily noticed discrepancies in medical treatments and care her family members with rare diseases received versus her mother's more common disease.
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Emily made it her goal to abolish these differences, wanting to create a world where rare diseases will be thoroughly researched and advocated for to help patients all around the world. She wanted to create something in the legacy of the loved ones that she lost.
In loving memory of James Naum.
Grandfather of Emily Naum
In loving memory of Michael Naum.
Father of Emily Naum
In memory of her grandfather, who was a teacher, she centered her ideas on creating an organization that would empower students like her to create meaningful change. In memory of her father, who was a police officer and firefighter, she thought about ways to build community within her organization. Over the next months, Student Advocates for Rare diseases started as a small club at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional Highschool in September of 2023.
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With her goal in mind, Emily designed prototypes for our projects and Student Advocates Program. In February of 2024, SARD's website was officially launched.