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 Brain 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 brain 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.
Painting a mask and showing how it feels to live with a brain injury was a lot of fun and also made me feel good and important. People don't understand so thank you for allowing me to share how I feel. I can't wait to see my mask on the art display. Thanks for making me smile and feel good about myself.
Ada Henderson
Individual with TBI
After my son sustained a traumatic brain injury, BIALA was very helpful in providing me information on the TH/SCI Trust Fund. They walked me through the process and helped me every step of the way. It was a very stressful time in my life so I was very grateful for their support and understanding.
Jason Niko
Caregiver
You’ve been so very helpful to us and we can’t thank you enough for all the information and assistance you provided us. Your help and direction has given so much confidence that we’ll get our beautiful son back because we’re making sound decisions based on your help.
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