Brain Injury Community Re-Entry (Niagara) Inc.

Brain Injury Community Re-Entry (Niagara) Inc., a Canadian nonprofit organization, is dedicated to providing rehabilitation and support services to individuals affected by acquired brain injuries (ABIs). The organization was founded in 1988 by a group of concerned parents and professionals who recognized the need for specialized services in the Niagara region.

Mission and Approach

BICR focuses on respecting the dignity and unique needs of every individual, offering flexible and individualized support that reflects the participants' choices, abilities, and existing support systems. They promote self-direction and facilitate opportunities for meaningful adaptation, contributing to the development of both the agency and its people. The organization advocates for the rights of individuals with ABIs and educates the public about the effects of such injuries.

Services

BICR provides a range of community-based services, including:

• Community Outreach: Connecting individuals with community resources and support networks.
• Psychology: Offering psychological assessments and interventions tailored to the needs of individuals with ABIs.
• Recreation Leisure Services: Facilitating social and recreational activities to enhance quality of life.
• Residential Rehabilitation: Providing rehabilitation services in a supportive residential environment.
• Social Work: Assisting with social integration and family support.
• Vocational Rehabilitation Assessments and/or Treatments: Helping individuals return to work or explore new vocational opportunities.

Governance and Funding

BICR is governed by a volunteer board of directors, comprising organization founders, rehabilitation professionals, and community partners. Funding is sourced from a variety of places, including the Government of Ontario, third-party payers, and private donations.

Accreditation and Impact

Accredited by Accreditation Canada since 1997, BICR provides support to approximately 350 participants and employs around 135 staff members. The organization is committed to advancements in rehabilitation and fostering partnerships to ensure ongoing dialogue with individuals and their support networks. BICR aims to lead in the field of ABI rehabilitation, advocating for successful re-entry into the community. Access to its services is based on a diagnosis of an acquired brain injury, defined as damage to the brain occurring after birth, often due to trauma.

[1] https://www.bicr.org [2] https://obia.ca/directory/brain-injury-community-re-entry-inc/ [3] https://www.hnhbhealthline.ca/displayservice.aspx?id=183127 [4] https://211ontario.ca/service/65805193/brain-injury-community-re-entry-niagara-inc-brain-injury-community-re-entry-niagara-inc/ [5] https://hsjcc.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/Brain-Injury-Community-Re-Entry-Niagara-Presentation-2021-09-22.pdf