About Us

About BIATX
The Brain Injury Association of Texas (BIATX), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is a statewide membership organization comprised of people with brain injuries, family members, friends and professionals. BIA of Texas is part of a network of Brain Injury Associations across the United States, and is an affiliate of the national Brain Injury Association of America, Inc. (BIAA).

History
The Brain Injury Association of Texas was organized in 1982 as the Texas Head Injury Association by a group of family members and health-care professionals to meet the needs of survivors of brain injury.

Prior to 1982 there was no public or private agency in Texas dedicated to providing emotional support, advice, guidance or other help for those who were suddenly faced with both the immediate and long-term effects of brain injury.

To focus on brain injury specifically, the National Head Injury Foundation changed its name to the Brain Injury Association of America in 1995. The Texas Head Injury Association followed suit, changing its name to the Brain Injury Association of Texas.

BIATX strives to provide family guidance, support research and rehabilitation, and to meet the urgent need to develop programs for public awareness and education. Funds to accomplish these tasks come from individuals, business and industry, and public donations and grants.

Mission
To improve the quality of life for survivors of brain injury and their families.

Vision
The lead association in Texas advocating support systems to enhance quality of life and community participation for individuals affected by brain injury.

Purpose
To network entities and resources to promote rehabilitation, prevention research and advocacy of brain injury.

Membership
BIATX is the leading association in Texas providing support, advocacy and professional education regarding brain injury.Membership is made up of people with brain injuries, family members, friends and professionals.

Information and Referral Sources
BIATX makes available a FREE 24/7 Family Helpline: 1 800 392-0040 for people struggling with recent injuries who are trying to connect to available services. Most calls are returned before the end of the next business day.

Connecting With Local Support Groups
BIATX works to connect families with local support groups. It is important for survivors and family members to get together and see that they are not alone in their struggle to function independently in the community.

Education for Survivors and Families
Education for the public about the epidemic of brain injury and the myriad of needs for these people is a high priority. It is critical that survivors and families know about services available to them.

Prevention Strategies
For traumatic brain injury there is no cure. Our efforts are to encourage prevention whether through public awarenessof shaken baby syndrome or in publicizing the risks associated with contact sports, preventing serious brain injury following concussion or early response to trauma. Brain injuries CAN be prevented.

Public Policy Issues
Brain injury is the leading cause of death and disability among children and one of the most significant causes of death and disability in adults. There are numerous public poliy issues that must be addressed regarding brain injury. BIATX takes an active role in preserving services that already exist and encouraging appropriations to end waiting lists for service programs. You can aid our grassroots movement by signing up for our legislative alerts.

Educational Opportunities
For more than 20 years we have developed conferences that attract nationally recognized speakers. We present new research in the field, changes and developments in services, provider information and opportunities for people with brain injury to share their strength, stories, struggles and success. later in 2006 we will debut on-line CEU training for professionals through this web site.

Coalition Building
This is one of the most challenging and important needs. Finding, developing and nurturing natural alliances - such as with the Rehabiltation Council of Texas, Texas Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Council, The Disability Policy Consortium, The Coalition of Texans with Disabilities and many others - is a constant focus of BIATX.

Media Outreach
Wherever possible, BIATX will publicize our events and initiatives through traditional media outlets. We can also provide experts to comment upon current news stories relating to brain injury.