The Brain Injury Society of Toronto (BIST) Advocacy Committee works collaboratively to reduce vulnerability in the Brain Injury (BI) community by disseminating self-advocacy knowledge and skills. The Committee explores the concerns of the community, shares information and works to develop effective strategies and pathways to navigate oppressive and systemic barriers.
The BIST Board of Directors will provide oversight and direction to the Advocacy Committee.
The Advocacy Committee Aims and Objectives:
1. To engage with BI community (survivors, caregivers, advocates, healthcare providers, medical community, etc.) for a greater understanding of the needs, concerns, experiences and issues that have occurred or may arise; and
2. To empower the Community to advocate for themselves through effective communication (with doctors, insurance companies, landlords, educators, etc.) and greater understanding of the systems, processes and barriers faced.
The Advocacy Committee invites interested parties to submit their expressions of interest to the Committee.
The Committee will be comprised of collaborative individuals of diverse backgrounds, education and/or experience chosen from within the Community, government, the medical and law enforcement community, etc – including those with lived experience as Brain Injury Survivors / Thrivers.
Total number of working committee members will not exceed nine nor be comprised of less than three members. Members will be expected to serve a one-year term with the option to renew if mutually agreed upon by the member, the co-chairs and the Board.
Meetings: Will occur once every 2 months via Zoom, Skype, or conference call as is determined by the Committee (or as needed). Some meetings may instead be held in-person when appropriate to do so.