As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, our mission is to be the statewide resource for those impacted by brain and/or spinal cord injuries. Because of our proven efforts in advocacy, awareness, education, prevention, and services, we are the organization that professionals, families, and individuals living with brain and/or spinal cord injuries turn to for help, hope, and healing. Proudly, we are the only organization of our kind statewide. In 2011, BIALA became affiliated with the Brain Injury Association of America, the country’s oldest and largest nationwide brain injury advocacy organization. In 2015, we became the state’s exclusive affiliate/ chapter of the United Spinal Association, a national organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of all people living with spinal cord injuries and/or disorders. These affiliations are meaningful because they broaden our commitment and ability to assist those impacted by brain and/or spinal cord injuries.
We are supported, in part, by the Traumatic Head and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund Program, which was created by the Louisiana Legislature in 1993 with Act 654. This program was created to provide services in a flexible, individualized manner to Louisiana citizens who survive traumatic head or spinal cord injuries. Act 654 also authorizes the establishment of a resource center for persons with these disabilities. BIALA was selected as the state’s resource center.
Our traumatic brain injury/spinal cord injury organization connects individuals throughout Louisiana through the numerous programs and services we offer, while also providing a helpline for direct support, and a comprehensive online resource guide. Our Resource Center provides a wealth of knowledge, guidance, and compassion to individuals living with brain and/or spinal cord injuries, their families/caregivers, and medical/healthcare professionals.
When I called the helpline, I was so happy to learn about the trust fund I could apply for. I had no clue about it but am glad I know now because living with a brain injury is expensive and hard. The lady I spoke with was so nice, took the time to answer all my questions, and made me laugh. She gave me some hope and that is pretty cool.
Harry Thomas
Individual with TBI
In between my therapies, I wanted to keep moving forward so I reached out to find some ideas of ways to keep my brain working. They were so helpful and friendly and gave me many great ideas to try. We were even laughing together, and it made it feel like I was talking to a friend.
Bobby Bodin
Individual with TBI
Living with a spinal cord injury has been a challenge but the peer mentor program has definitely assisted me in adjusting to my new normal. Thank you for giving me hope.
