Asociación Riojana de Enfermedades Raras

The Association of Rare Diseases of La Rioja (ARER) is a nonprofit social organization serving people affected by rare diseases and their families across the autonomous community of La Rioja, Spain. Founded around the concerns and experiences of affected individuals and relatives, ARER works to ensure that people living with uncommon conditions are heard, supported and treated with dignity. Its services include welcoming and accompanying individuals and families, as well as providing information and guidance about rare diseases, whether or not someone has received a diagnosis.

Through its Information and Orientation Service, ARER connects people with support offered by the Spanish Federation of Rare Diseases (FEDER). The association also promotes public awareness and participation, gives affected people and families a voice before institutions and the wider community, and advocates for their rights and access to appropriate healthcare, education, employment, culture and other services. Guided by values including equality, justice, solidarity, empathy and commitment, ARER brings people together through events, information and community initiatives, working to improve quality of life and make rare diseases a greater social and political priority