the brain injury ASSOCIATION of durham region

We support a dignified life for people affected by brain injury

About Brain Injury


Learn More about Brain Injury. Including Common symptoms & changes. After sustaining an ABI, many different symptoms or changes may be observed. While every Injury is unique, combinations of the following symptoms or changes are common.

About Us

Brain Injury Association of Durham Region (BIAD) is a registered, not-for-profit charitable organization, whose members are people who have experienced brain injuries and their caregivers. We serve the Durham Region by providing non-medical resources and supports.

Application For Service

BIAD offers non-medical Brain Injury community support services. An application can be made by the individual (Self-referral) or Professionals (primary health care/community partners) by completing an Application for Services form.

About us

Decorative BIAD logo

Brain Injury Association of Durham Region (BIAD) is a registered, not-for-profit charitable organization, whose members are people who have experienced brain injuries and their caregivers. We serve the Durham Region by providing non-medical resources and supports.

Our Mission:

We support a dignified life for people affected by brain injury.

Our Vision:

To be a leading partner driving change to ensure no one affected by a brain injury is left unsupported.

Women placing her thumb print under a large green BIAD logo on the wall/

Our Services

The Brain Injury Association of Durham Region provides a variety of supports for people of Durham Region who have experienced brain injuries.

Some of the supports we provide in include:

People sitting at tables at a BIAD event

Adult Day Program (ADP)

This program offers cognitive based programming along with social and recreational opportunities for individuals with Acquired Brain Injury to socialize and learn new skills. The program is constantly changing based on participant input. Below are the different options that the Adult Day Program provides.

Heather and Amy standing in green BIAD shirts in front of a display table with BIAD information

Community Support Program

The Community Support Program offers outreach services provided to support individuals who are affected by brain injury and who have the capability of living independently, or who are being supported by family / others in the community.

OBIA Affiliate Logo

Peer Support Program

The Peer Support Program connects people with a Mentor who has lived experiences with an individual (Partner) who is also living with the effects of an acquired brain injury who requires the support whether they be a survivor or caregiver.

Bag with green BIAD logo and and food. Small calendar with a brain cartoon.

Supported Independent Living Program

The Supported independent living program by BIAD is specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals who have suffered a brain injury and require additional support to live independently.

Testimonials

“I Love that BIAD Has supported me during my brain injury recovery. I’m blessed to have community of good people. Thank you BIAD family.”

BIAD Client

“I want to say that the staff are so understanding and kind of our determination to get better, and be better. “

melanie

“BIAD gave me my life back. You are no longer alone.”

Deborah

I found myself

Victoria

Client Newsletter

BIAD News Central — a newsletter for clients, by clients. Download the latest issue now!

May – June
Issue

July – August
Issue

September – October
Issue

Join Our Team

Join Our Board of Directors – Make a Difference in the Lives of Brain Injury Survivors 
Are you looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity where your time and expertise make a real impact? Consider joining the Board of Directors of the Brain Injury Association of Durham (BIAD) — a charitable non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with the effects of brain injury, as well as their families, caregivers, and communities. We are currently seeking passionate and dedicated volunteers to express their interest in joining our Board, particularly individuals with experience in fundraising and/or healthcare/health services.

Latest News & Events

We have some amazing events coming up that you won’t want to miss!

When: Drop-in every Wednesday starting Oct 8th to Nov 19th

from 1pm – 3pm. No registration required!

Why: BIAD is participating in the Bowmanville Library’s Winter Market! We need your help to create items to be sold at the market. All proceeds from the Winter Market will go towards BIAD programs. All items to be sold at the market MUST be made here at BIAD. Join us each week to work on a new project!

Oct 8thBookmarks
Oct 15thJewelry
Oct 22ndMagnets
Oct 29thOrnsments
Nov 5thBath bombs
Nov 12thCard Making
Nov 19thCandles

Additional Items that can be made:

Knit and crochet items (hats, mitts, scarves, pot holders)

Artwork (to be approved by Ainsley)

Halloween Party

Join Us for a Spooktacular Halloween Party!

Thursday, October 30th

11 AM – 4 PM

Location: BIAD Office

11 AM – 2 PM Games & Activities

12PM – 1 PM Lunch

2 PM – 4 PM Halloween Dance

Costumes Welcome!

Client & Family Advisory Committee

Our Mission

The Client & Family Advisory Committee (CFAC) is a partnership of clients, families, staff, and board members dedicated to ensuring an excellent client care experience at BIAD.

Our Purpose

  • Improve the client and family experience at BIAD
  • Provide feedback and recommendations to BIAD’s Board and management team
  • Ensure that the voices of clients and families help guide programs and services

What You’ll Gain

  • A chance to share your experiences and make a meaningful impact
  • Opportunities to collaborate with others who care about brain injury support
  • A role in shaping the future of BIAD programs and services

Interested in Joining?

If interested, please click below to complete our short registration form. Once submitted, we’ll connect with you to discuss next steps.

Your voice matters — together, we can make a difference!


From Impact to Insight:
A Brain Injury Case Review

Date: October 22nd

Join us for a dynamic and informative day focused on understanding the complexities of brain injury from a legal, medical, and caregiving perspective.

This unique event brings together legal experts, healthcare professionals, and caregivers to explore critical topics such as:
– Personal injury law
– Accident benefits
– Long-term disability claims
– Multidisciplinary care approaches
– Real-life case reviews and professional insights


Whether you’re a professional in the field or someone personally impacted by brain injury, this event offers valuable knowledge, connections, and community.


Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, share, and gain insight—from impact to recovery.

Outreach Drop-In Services

What it is: Outreach Drop-In is a flexible, short-term support option for BIAD clients who do not have an assigned worker. These sessions provide help with immediate needs, quick questions, and simple applications — no appointment needed, just drop in during open hours.

Where:
BIAD Office — please register with reception when you arrive.
Who can use it:
* Active BIAD clients without an assigned worker
* Clients currently on the waitlist for a worker
* Individuals needing help with an Application for Service

This service is not for long-term case management or complex applications. It’s meant for quick support and short-term tasks only.

Other Drop-In Support

BIAD has partnered with other agencies to offer two drop-in supports for BIAD clients, right here at our office: These are open drop-in opportunities—no registration needed. Just come by and connect when you need support. Pinewood At BIAD & CMHA At BIAD. See our Calendar below for full details.

Week of Oct 13th

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Monday, Oct 13(1 event)

BIAD Closed for Thanksgiving

Monday, Oct 13

Tuesday, Oct 14(2 events)

9:00 am 12:00 pm: Outreach Drop-In Services


Tuesday, Oct 14

Mondays: 1:00PM – 4:00 PM
Tuesdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesdays: 1:00PM – 4:00 PM
Thursdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

What it is:
Outreach Drop-In is a flexible, short-term support option for BIAD clients who do not have an assigned worker. These sessions provide help with immediate needs, quick questions, and simple applications — no appointment needed, just drop in during open hours.

Where:
BIAD Office — please register with reception when you arrive.

Who can use it:
* Active BIAD clients without an assigned worker
* Clients currently on the waitlist for a worker
* Individuals needing help with an Application for Service

How it works:
Clients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. When clients arrive they can register at reception.

Please Note:
This service is not for long-term case management or complex applications. It’s meant for quick support and short-term tasks only.

1:30 pm 2:30 pm: Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)


Tuesday, Oct 14

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
Every Other Tuesday
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
CMHA staff will be onsite to:
Share information about mental health services
Offer private conversations around mental health concerns
Wednesday, Oct 15(1 event)

1:00 pm 4:00 pm: Outreach Drop-In Services


Wednesday, Oct 15

Mondays: 1:00PM – 4:00 PM
Tuesdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesdays: 1:00PM – 4:00 PM
Thursdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

What it is:
Outreach Drop-In is a flexible, short-term support option for BIAD clients who do not have an assigned worker. These sessions provide help with immediate needs, quick questions, and simple applications — no appointment needed, just drop in during open hours.

Where:
BIAD Office — please register with reception when you arrive.

Who can use it:
* Active BIAD clients without an assigned worker
* Clients currently on the waitlist for a worker
* Individuals needing help with an Application for Service

How it works:
Clients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. When clients arrive they can register at reception.

Please Note:
This service is not for long-term case management or complex applications. It’s meant for quick support and short-term tasks only.

Thursday, Oct 16(1 event)

9:00 am 12:00 pm: Outreach Drop-In Services


Thursday, Oct 16

Mondays: 1:00PM – 4:00 PM
Tuesdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesdays: 1:00PM – 4:00 PM
Thursdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

What it is:
Outreach Drop-In is a flexible, short-term support option for BIAD clients who do not have an assigned worker. These sessions provide help with immediate needs, quick questions, and simple applications — no appointment needed, just drop in during open hours.

Where:
BIAD Office — please register with reception when you arrive.

Who can use it:
* Active BIAD clients without an assigned worker
* Clients currently on the waitlist for a worker
* Individuals needing help with an Application for Service

How it works:
Clients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. When clients arrive they can register at reception.

Please Note:
This service is not for long-term case management or complex applications. It’s meant for quick support and short-term tasks only.

Friday, Oct 17

Upcoming ADP Programs

Please note: BIAD Programs and events are intended for our current clients. If you’re not yet a client and are interested in participating complete a service application or contact our office for more information.

Join Our Virtual Programs with the follow link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81203119474?pwd=ZXA5djZUbVhPKzhnbGdBM09TWDhEUT09

You can also enter the zoom meeting manually using the meeting ID and Passcode.

Meeting ID:812 0311 9474; Passcode:5132; Dial in: 855-703-8985


Register for In-Person Program with this link

https://form.jotform.com/222614915252250

or Call 905-723-2732

Week of Oct 13th

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Monday, Oct 13(1 event)

BIAD Closed for Thanksgiving

Monday, Oct 13

Tuesday, Oct 14(10 events)

9:00 am 10:00 am: ADP: Breakfast and Chat


Tuesday, Oct 14

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

10:00 am 12:00 pm: ADP: Music Group


Tuesday, Oct 14

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

1:00 pm 2:00 pm: ADP: Bingo


Tuesday, Oct 14

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

2:00 pm 4:00 pm: Registered: Pool Tournament


Tuesday, Oct 14

3:00 pm 4:00 pm: ADP: Sensory Friendly Time


Tuesday, Oct 14

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

Wednesday, Oct 15(11 events)

9:00 am 10:00 am: ADP: Breakfast and Chat


Wednesday, Oct 15

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

9:30 am 12:00 pm: Registered: WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan)


Wednesday, Oct 15

WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) program.

Register Here: https://form.jotform.com/252583630806257?fbclid=IwY2xjawM-h-VleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaSDI1ZWdUTlJFWktZVmRKAR6kyupwlVoFfCR4hD9B_hZvB6DBd0Vu_2Ak29Q6go1LtrwGhFdBvEjYntWdjg_aem_6ZR-_6sCB3aL6J7gmX5Zug

WRAP is a 10-week empowering program designed to help you build the life and wellness you want.
With WRAP, you will:
✔️ Discover tools to build and maintain wellness
✔️ Create a personalized daily plan to stay on track
✔️ Identify challenges and develop strategies to move forward
✔️ Gain support and remain in control—even during a crisis

This simple, safe, and powerful process helps you bring recovery concepts into everyday life.

✔️ Registration is required
✔️ Only 8 spaces available – reserve yours today!
✔️ Please commit to attending all sessions for the best experience.
✔️ Can’t join this round? Don’t worry—WRAP will be offered again in the future.

11:00 am 12:00 pm: ADP: Independent Work / Crafts


Wednesday, Oct 15

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

1:00 pm 2:00 pm: ADP: Games


Wednesday, Oct 15

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

1:00 pm 3:00 pm: BIAD Winter Market Group


Wednesday, Oct 15

When: Drop-in every Wednesday starting Oct 8th to Nov 19th

from 1pm – 3pm. No registration required!

Why: BIAD is participating in the Bowmanville Library’s Winter Market! We need your help to create items to be sold at the market. All proceeds from the Winter Market will go towards BIAD programs. All items to be sold at the market MUST be made here at BIAD. Join us each week to work on a new project!

Oct 8th Bookmarks
Oct 15th Jewelry
Oct 22nd Magnets
Oct 24th Stickers
Oct 29th Ornaments
Nov 5th Bath bombs
Nov 12th Card Making
Nov 19th Candles

Additional Items that can be made:

  • Artwork (to be approved by Ainsley)
  • Knit and crochet items (hats, mitts, scarves, pot holders)

2:00 pm 4:00 pm: Registered: Pool Tournament


Wednesday, Oct 15

3:00 pm 4:00 pm: ADP: Sensory Friendly Time


Wednesday, Oct 15

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

Thursday, Oct 16(9 events)

9:00 am 10:00 am: ADP: Breakfast and Chat


Thursday, Oct 16

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

11:00 am 12:00 pm: ADP: Independent Work / Crafts


Thursday, Oct 16

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

1:00 pm 2:00 pm: ADP: Bingo


Thursday, Oct 16

2:00 pm 4:00 pm: Registered: Pool Tournament


Thursday, Oct 16

A fun and engaging recreational activity that promotes socialization, problem-solving, and fine motor skills, while providing a sense of accomplishment and competition.  Click on the title above to register for this program.

3:00 pm 4:00 pm: ADP: Sensory Friendly Time


Thursday, Oct 16

In-person program for ADP participants, no registration required.

Friday, Oct 17(5 events)

9:00 am 12:00 pm: ADP: Drop-In Day


Friday, Oct 17

10:00 am 12:00 am: Registered: Pool Tournament


Friday, Oct 17 Saturday, Oct 18

1:00 pm 3:00 pm: Registered: Knitting/Crochet Group (peer run)


Friday, Oct 17

Application for Service

BIAD offers non-medical Brain Injury community support services. An application can be made by the individual (Self-referral) or Professionals (primary health care/community partners) by completing an Application for Services form.

To access this application please click this link https://biad.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023.03.22-BIAD-Applicaton-for-Service.pdf


BIAD follows the PHIPA guidelines and accepts applications via fax, mail, or in-person. To maintain confidentiality, please refrain from sending the application form via email.

If you require a paper copy of the form please contact us at intake@ceabi.ca or call us at 905-723-2732

Our Sponsors

Thank you to our sponsors for helping us to make a difference in the lives of those who are impacted by brain injuries. Your contribution has made it possible for us to continue to provide necessary resources, support and services to those in need. We value and appreciate your partnership and support.

Thank you to our Emerald Sponsor

Lerners Lawyers

Emerald Sponsor
Lerners Lawyers Our Emerald Sponsor

Newsletter

Sign up for our Newsletter for agency updates, articles and more!


You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact