Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIA-MA)

Education, advocacy and awareness - Brain Injury can be a complex condition, sometimes requiring lifelong care and treatment. The organization advocates for public policy that recognizes and addresses issues confronting persons with Brain Injury, their families and care providers. Raising awareness is critical to the organization's mission and essential to reducing the many consequences of Brain Injury. Annually the organization fosters the empowerment of individuals with Brain Injury through Association awareness initiatives and serves as the leading source for Brain Injury education for those working or aspiring to work in the Brain Injury field. During fy2023, the organization welcomed more than 30,000 visitors to its website and educated thousands of individuals across the state through outreach initiatives.

Prevention - many Brain injuries are preventable. The organization has developed a number of programs that address the leading causes of Brain Injury and educates more than 3,200 children, adolescents, and adults annually. Programs include: think a-head, a dynamic school-based program for students in grades 1-12 that teaches students to avoid risk-taking behavior and to develop healthy living habits and brains at risk, a court-related program that links choices made while driving to the devastating effects of traumatic Brain Injury.

Information and resources - regardless of severity or cause, the organization understands the impact of Brain Injury on the individual, family, and community. The resource and support team of the organization annually provides support, information and resources to approximately 50,000 survivors and families on an annual basis. The organization sponsors more than 19 support groups and a variety of recreation events across the state that provde a forum for participants to connect with each other, reduce isolation, and support the rehabilitation process. The organization's helpline provides individuals with Brain Injury and their loved ones with information that is timely, comprehensive, and tailored to an individual's needs.

Recreational program provides opportunities for individuals with Brain injuries and their loved ones to participate in recreational events.