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Our History
In 1987, Jackie Denham and Shirley Athoe founded the Brain Injury Association of Fort Erie (BIAFE), one of Ontario's earliest BIAs (Brain Injury Associations), out of sheer necessity and compassion. Inspired by their son's journey with acquired brain injuries and the absence of local support networks, Jackie and Shirley took it upon themselves to create a community where individuals facing similar challenges could connect, share experiences, and provide vital support to one another. The vision wasn't just about their family's needs but also about fostering an inclusive environment where all families impacted by brain injuries could find solace and assistance. Through their initiative, they not only established hope but also laid the groundwork for countless others to find understanding and solidarity in their journey toward recovery and acceptance.
Our Mission
At BIAFE, our mission is to provide unwavering support, advocacy, and resources to individuals and families affected by brain injuries. We strive to enhance understanding and acceptance while promoting resilience and empowerment within Fort Erie and South Niagara.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every person affected by a brain injury receives compassionate care, comprehensive resources, and opportunities for recovery and participation in society.
Our Values
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Empathy: We value understanding and compassion towards individuals and families affected by brain injuries, recognizing the unique challenges they face.
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Respect: We uphold the dignity and worth of every person, honouring their experiences, perspectives, and choices.
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Collaboration: We believe in the power of partnerships and teamwork, working closely to achieve shared goals and maximize impact.
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Integrity: We operate with honesty, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of our work, maintaining the trust of those we serve.
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Empowerment: We strive to empower brain injury survivors and their families to advocate for themselves, make informed decisions, and lead fulfilling lives.
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Inclusivity: We embrace diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that our services and programs are accessible and responsive to the needs of all individuals, regardless of background or circumstance.
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Education: We are committed to raising awareness and promoting understanding about brain injuries, empowering communities to recognize and respond effectively to the needs of survivors.
Most of BIAFE services are hosted and operated out of our Program Centre located at 649 Niagara Boulevard in Fort Erie, serving the individuals within Greater Fort Erie. At BIAFE, our programs are versatile, as we understand that the needs of our members are ever-evolving. Primarily, our centre focuses on case management, and life skills programming, all of which aim to make life better for everyone we serve.
Our Programs
Our Team
Though our team may be small in numbers, we're a force to be reckoned with, fueled by the incredible leadership of our Board of Directors. Learn more about the powerhouse behind our success.
Case Manager
Donna Summerville
Operations Manager
Britney Conlon
Program Manager
Becky Porter
Bookkeeper
Janine Whitaker