BIST provides programs and services to people living with the effects of brain injury and their families / caregivers.
After joining BIST our programs are free and do not have a wait list.
CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES
BIST has two staff who provide case management services for people living with the effects of brain injury and other cognitive impairments.
Transitional Support Coordinator: Laura Bellon
Provides case management services to help people secure financial stability through government programs such as ODSP.
Contact: [email protected] OR 647-271-7853.
Violence Impact Coordinator: Isabelle Rivaletto
Provides case management for people who have experienced violence and/or abuse and require assistance securing housing, financial, medical and/or community support .
Contact: [email protected] OR 437-241-6751.
WORKSHOPS & WEEKLY SERIES PROGRAMS
BIST provides FREE annual workshops and weekly series programs (special programming which run for a limited number of consecutive weeks) for ABI caregivers and ABI survivors.
Past Workshops and Series BIST typically runs on an annual basis include:
Current Series Programs
Drumming for Youth with ABI
For Youth ages 15-24. Runs for 6 Sessions, starting June 22, 1-2 pm.
Participants will make their own instruments out of household objects and then learn how to play them.
Find out more, HERE.
Trauma Informed WRAP Group
A Mental Health Support Group for Adults with ABI who have experienced violence. New session begins June 25th, 2020. REGISTRATION COMING SOON.
Find out more, HERE.
WEEKLY PROGRAM
- Every Monday – Not So Blue Mondays
- No Programs on Holiday Mondays
- On hold due to COVID-19 Pandemic
TUESDAYS
- 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the Month – ABI Survivor Support Group
- 2nd Tuesday of the Month – Men’s Social Drop-In
- LAST Tuesday of the Month – Community Outings
WEDNESDAYS
- Last Wednesday of the Month – Community Meeting
- Last Wednesday of the Month – Peer-Led Caregiver Support Group
THURSDAYS
- 1st & 3rd Thursday of the Month – Women’s Support Group
SUPPORT GROUPS & PEER SUPPORT
- ABI Survivor Support Group
- Peer Led Caregiver Support Group
- Peer Support Program – For ABI survivors and caregivers
- Women’s Support Group
BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH
Every June, during Brain Injury Awareness Month, BIST organizes awareness events and a social media campaign dedicated to raising awareness about ABI – a condition more prevalent than MS, Breast Cancer and HIV/AIDS – combined. Find out more, HERE.
BIST has helped me grow as a person. Over the years, I have become a peer mentor, and I have helped others deal with their ABI and recover. I always loved ‘things’ before my accident, but I was taught by BIST to appreciate the littlest things in life. I do that now with all my heart.
– Glenn, BIST Volunteer & Member
BIST has made a big difference for my social well-being. I was at home all the time feeling depressed, and that was not who I was. Now I’ve been given hope to get close to being myself again. I know now there is a society among BIST members I can talk to. I never have to feel alone as long as BIST is open to me.
– Joan, BIST Member
