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. Annually the organization welcomes more than 12,000 new visitors to its website and educates thousands of individuals across the state through outreach initiatives.

Prevention programs - the organization has developed educational programs that address the leading causes of Brain Injury. In collaboration with state agencies, schools, community-based organizations, and the state judicial system, the organization educates more than 3,532 children, adolescents, and adults statewide on Brain Injury prevention.

Resource & support programs - regardless of severity or cause, the organization understands the impact of Brain Injury on individuals, families, and the community. Annually, the organization meets the call for need 7,276 times. The support and resources that the organization provides are timely, comprehensive, and tailored to individual needs. The organization currently sponsors 25 support groups throughout Massachusetts, which provide a forum for sharing information as well as a compassionate and understanding peer group. The organization also offers 44 recreational and social activities annually to help individuals and families feel connected, to help reduce isolation, and to promote healing.