THE YELLOW BEAR FOUNDATION
The Yellow Bear Foundation was born in Central Illinois in 2017 out of the Lavin family's journey with Primary Immunodeficiency (PI), and has grown into a community-driven nonprofit committed to creating brighter futures for those affected by PI.
- Our Mission -
WE EXIST TO RAISE AWARENESS, FUND RESEARCH, IMPROVE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT, AND FACILITATE ACCESSIBLE RESOURCES FOR INDIVIDUALS LIVING WITH PRIMARY IMMUNODEFICIENCY.
- Our Vision -
WE ENVISION A FUTURE WHERE EVERY INDIVIDUAL WITH A PRIMARY IMMUNODEFICIENCY DISORDER HAS TIMELY DIAGNOSIS, EFFECTIVE TREATMENT, AND ACCESSIBLE RESOURCES TO THRIVE.
OUR IMMUNOLOGY CLINIC IN PEORIA, ILLINOIS
We are proud to announce the official opening of the Yellow Bear Foundation Office of Immunology & Research in Peoria, IL! This achievement fulfills one of our founding pillars—bringing vital immunology care and resources closer to home for families impacted by primary immunodeficiency (PI) and other complex immune conditions.
WHY THIS CLINIC MATTERS
Until now, families in Central Illinois have faced the burden of traveling long distances for specialized care. Our new clinic eliminates this barrier by providing local access to expert immunologists, earlier diagnosis and intervention for PI, state-of-the-art treatments, and infusion services. It also creates a platform for research opportunities aimed at advancing care and improving outcomes. This clinic is more than a medical space, it is a vital resource for patients who need answers and support.
OUR LOCAL PARTNERSHIP
This clinic is made possible through a partnership with Midwest Allergy Sinus Asthma SC (MASA). Together, we are creating a local hub for advanced care and research. MASA’s rotating specialists bring expertise in allergy, respiratory, and immunology medicine to the clinic, ensuring patients receive high-quality, specialized treatment without having to leave Peoria.
The clinic offers comprehensive services including the diagnosis and treatment of PI, allergy testing and immunotherapy, respiratory and asthma care, infusion and biologic therapies, and food allergy management. These services provide families with essential care that was previously out of reach for many in the region.
The Yellow Bear Foundation Immunology & Research Clinic is located at 6812 Knoxville Ave, Peoria, IL 61614. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 309.452.0995.