For over 40 years, the Spina Bifida Resource Network (SBRN) has been serving children and adults with spina bifida and other disabilities throughout NJ and beyond. We provide peer-led support groups and programs, educational and recreational events, financial assistance, resources and advocacy. Through our programs and events, we build supportive communities and empower individuals to increase knowledge, self-care, capabilities, independence and inclusion in school, employment and community activities.
Our Mission:
To provide educational resources, social events and advocacy programs that empower people with disabilities and their allies to challenge perceptions, embrace interdependence and live their best lives.
Working with children, adults, families, providers and other allies, we empower people living with Spina Bifida and other disabilities by fostering knowledge and strengthening relationships and community through:
- Educational and Supportive Resources –We offer one-on-one discussions with our nurse about healthcare topics through our “Health Conversations with Nurse Barbara” program. We maintain extensive resources on our website about healthcare, education, employment, advocacy and much more. We also provide current information on health, legislation, education and upcoming events through our Empowerment Zone newsletter and on social media, where we have over 3,000 followers.
- Peer-led Virtual Groups & Programs – We host virtual events coordinated and led by people with disabilities that provide tools, information and a sense of community, such as our Empowered Conversations: Virtual Speaker Series, Afternoon Chats, Men’s Chat and the Golden Girls.
- Educational, Social & Recreational Events– We hold accessible and educational conferences as well as our annual Empowerment Retreat for adults with disabilities.
- Financial Resources– We distribute financial support through our Jane Horowitz Special Medical Needs Fund and the SBRN Community Fund to provide relief to those with excessive expenses or emergent needs.
- Community Awareness– We raise awareness of spina bifida at schools, health fairs, community events and we educate the public about the benefits of folic acid and healthy eating for the prevention of birth defects.
- Advocacy – We advocate at the federal, state and local levels on issues that affect the lives of people with disabilities and protect their rights. We also offer programs and tools to increase and support self-advocacy.
Our Vision:
A thriving community where people with disabilities have equitable access to resources and opportunities to optimize their wellness and realize their unlimited potential.