Jared Walker

Jared Walker is the founder and executive director of Dollar For, a nonprofit organization focused on eliminating medical debt by increasing awareness and accessibility of hospital financial assistance. Motivated by his family's experiences with medical bills, Walker established Dollar For in Portland, Oregon, developing it from a grassroots crowdfunding initiative into a nationwide program. Under Walker's leadership, Dollar For has erased more than $90 million in hospital debt, assisting thousands of patients in accessing financial assistance programs that nonprofit hospitals are required to provide.

Walker utilizes technology and public education to streamline the process of applying for hospital charity care. He led the development of a national database of hospital financial policies, allowing patients to check eligibility and automate much of the application process. Walker also advocates for hospital accountability, policy transparency, and community empowerment through education and systemic change.

Walker is a public speaker and media contributor, with features in NPR, The Wall Street Journal, TIME, and Fast Company, and has spoken at events such as the Aspen Ideas Festival. His TikTok videos have increased public awareness of medical debt, contributing to a broader conversation about healthcare reform. Walker's background, including his transition from bartending student to nonprofit leader, highlights his commitment to healthcare advocacy and medical debt relief.