Our journey began over 40 years ago as a regional chapter of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Today, we are AAIR — Asthma and Allergy Impact and Rescue — an organization with a nationwide mission to see all children rescued at school, healthy at home, and connected to care.
Our Mission
Our History
Our organization was established in 1981 by two allergists, Dr. Raymond Slavin and Dr. Phillip Korenblat, and Marylin Horst, a Medical Social Worker at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. Recognizing a significant need in the St. Louis community, they founded Project Concern, now known as BREATH, to provide life-saving asthma and allergy medications, equipment, and support. This program continues to serve uninsured and underinsured children to this day.
We worked tirelessly as AAFA St. Louis to address asthma and allergy issues on a local level in Missouri and Illinois for several decades. Through our affiliation with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, we were able to leverage resources, collaborate on initiatives, and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in asthma and allergy management.
We have been a leading resource for those with asthma and allergies for over 40 years.
National Expansion
As our school-based asthma emergency preparedness program (RESCUE) grew beyond state lines, it became clear it was time for our next chapter. In 2025, we announced a bold new identity and nationwide mission, solidifying our promise to continue providing lifesaving and cost-saving support no matter where a child lives in the United States.
AAIR is driven by a commitment to change systems, not just treat symptoms. We are dedicated to making a real impact and saving lives through innovative and financially sound interventions.