Programs and Services
Programs and Services
Illuminations: Resources for Parenting a Child with Spina Bifida
This informational program is designed for new Wisconsin families. A packet of information is sent to families at the birth of their child, and again at six months and one year. Information is also sent out to parents when their child turns three years old, eight years old, 13 years old and finally at 18 years old. This program keeps families informed as to what assistance is available from SBAWI and other agencies in Wisconsin. Along with information that can help answer many questions at each of these milestone ages.
Parent Connections
These meetings connect parents of children with Spina Bifida. The purpose is for information sharing, networking, and building friendships and community. Dates of upcoming events are listed on the Calendar of Events webpage.
Educational Workshops
SBAWI provides opportunities for those affected by Spina Bifida to learn more about topics important to their lives. Expert presenters lead each workshop, and facilitate discussions on a wide range of topics and issues. Previous topics have included bowel management, music/art therapy, educational issues, and accessible gardening/landscaping. These meetings also allow for socialization and networking opportunities.
Resource Center
The SBAWI office is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Call or stop by and we will be happy to answer questions you have related to Spina Bifida and the programs and services. SBAWI has a lending library with books, tapes, videos, CDs and other information on issues related to Spina Bifida.
Annual Summer Picnic
Families and individuals with Spina Bifida come to eat, play games, swim, and enjoy all types of activities. Join SBAWI for this fun event. Not only is this a wonderful opportunity for networking and community building, but it gives individuals an opportunity to introduce important people in their lives to their Spina Bifida community.
TEAM, Teen and Mentoring Program
TEAM (Teens and Mentors) is a program of the Spina Bifida Association’s (SBA) Quality of Life Campaign. The TEAM Program was created to help teens with Spina Bifida learn and practice skills necessary for independent and healthy living. Teens make goals for themselves that will help them achieve success and independence. These goals include making friends, becoming a better self-advocate, being in charge of one's own health care, developing a healthy self-esteem, etc. Together with their mentors, teens practice skills to achieve individual goals. Teens and their parents who would like to learn more about TEAM, contact the SBAWI office.
SBAWI Adult Night Out
Adults with Spina Bifida ages 18 and over are invited to spend an evening out. This is a wonderful opportunity to develop friendships and meet other adults with Spina Bifida from Wisconsin.
Financial Assistance
There are a few financial assistance funds available for Wisconsin members and individuals affected by Spina Bifida of SBAWI. Details can be found on the Membership information page.
Services Available through SBAWI
Volunteer Opportunities
There are many ways you can become involved with SBAWI. Some of the volunteer opportunities available include:
- Joining a Committee
- Volunteering at Events
- Office Assistance
- Advocacy Assistance
- Assisting at Health and Informational Fairs
- Assisting at Bridal Shows
- Presenting for community groups and schools
If you are interested in finding out more about the volunteer opportunities available, please contact the SBAWI office.
Do you know what the Spina Bifida Association’s branded color is?
It is TEAL (PMS320). It is the green/blue color. Help organize family and friends to wear teal and start getting people to recognize our organization's color.