For Support: (504) 982-0685
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About biala

The Voice of Help, Hope & Healing

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.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TRUST FUND PROGRAM

During an incredibly difficult time, when I called the BIALA hotline desperate for help, I was greeted by someone who showed that she truly cared, and I can't say thank you enough. She was a life support for me, and I don't know how I would have survived without her. She was there when I had no one else and brought me peace and comfort and understanding. There is no amount of money or thanks in the world that could repay her for her kindness and compassion. She was and continues to be such a blessing to me.

Catherine Genovese

Caregiver

Attending a Connections Circle event and meeting new people and learning that I can still enjoy life even with my spinal cord injury was a blessing. I haven't picked up a bowling ball in 30 years, and today, when I did, my first bowl was a strike. This smile on my face won't go away.

Chris Alford

Individual with SCI

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