The mission of the Brain Injury Association of New York State (BIANYS) is to support, educate and advocate for people and families impacted by brain injury and to minimize brain injury through prevention.

Why is BIANYS important to PTA members in New York State?

“Among those ages 0 to 19, each year an average of 62,000 children sustain brain injuries requiring hospitalization as a result of motor vehicle crashes, falls, sports injuries, physical abuse and other causes. A staggering 564,000 children are seen in hospital emergency departments for brain injury and released.” – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The Brain Injury Association of New York State provides programs and services to assist those impacted by brain injury. Parents, students, teachers, administrators –  the association is available with resources and support.

Programs for Schools and Students

COPE- Concussion Outreach Prevention Education

https://bianys.org/cope-concussion-outreach-prevention-education/

Concussion Outreach Prevention Education programming provides free presentations to anyone engaged with students and athletes – parents, athletic trainers, school administrators, educators, nurses, coaches, youth sports organizations. Participants will learn valuable information on how to prevent concussions and to successfully reintegrate a concussed student into the classroom. 

COPE presentations cover:

• Signs and symptoms of concussion
• Proper management of concussion – cocooning is out and activity guided by symptoms is in
• Return to Sport- new guidelines released in July of 2023
• Supporting students in the classroom following a concussion

COPE presentations are offered at no cost and supported by funding through the New York State Department of Health.

Concussion Resources

https://bianys.org/concussion-information/

The Brain Injury Association of New York State is dedicated to supporting children and adults as they transition back to school, sports, and work. Through the Concussion Initiative Advisory Committee’s Return to Life Working Group and collaboration with various program and funding partners, BIANYS offers free resources to assist individuals in their recovery after a concussion

Family, Advocacy, Counseling and Training Services Program (FACTS)

https://bianys.org/programs/facts/

The Family, Advocacy, Counseling and Training Services Program (FACTS), funded by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), provides statewide support to individuals and families affected by brain injuries sustained before age 22. FACTS Coordinators, employed by the Brain Injury Association of New York State, serve each region to ensure comprehensive, localized support.

FACTS Coordinators provide support by:

• Helping you understand and navigate the current system of services available in New York State
• Linking you with rehabilitation services in your community and throughout the state
• Helping you access New York State Medicaid Waiver Programs if qualified
• Training members of your family, service providers, and educators to understand the impact of brain injury and brain injury prevention
• Connecting you to community support groups about living with a brain injury or caring for an individual with a brain injury
• Offering support with your school system’s special education process

In addition to these programs and services, the Brain Injury Association of New York State provides a toll-free helpline, support groups, professional development programing, and community events. To learn more about the association please visit www.bianys.org