Press Release

Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey Joins National Network as Affiliate of Brain Injury Association of America

Local Programs and Services to Remain; New Jersey to Gain Stronger National Advocacy Support

NORTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — April 1, 2026 — The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey (BIANJ) is pleased to announce that it is joining the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) as a new affiliate organization. The announcement was made at BIANJ’s 20th Annual Gala held on March 25 in Livingston, New Jersey.

As part of this new affiliation, BIANJ will continue its longstanding mission to support individuals affected by brain injury and to educate the public about brain injury prevention. All programs, services, and local efforts will remain unchanged.

By joining BIAA’s national network, BIANJ will contribute to a stronger, unified voice advocating for individuals with brain injuries. With New Jersey’s inclusion, BIAA now represents affiliate organizations across 33 states, amplifying awareness and advocacy efforts nationwide.

“This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to enhance our ability to serve the more than 12,000 individuals statewide affected by brain injury,” said Wendy Berk, MSW, LCSW, Chief Executive Officer of BIANJ. “By joining the Brain Injury Association of America, we will strengthen our advocacy efforts while continuing to provide the direct support and services New Jersey families have relied on since 1981.”

Survivors, caregivers, healthcare providers, donors, and supporters in New Jersey will continue working with BIANJ without interruption. There will be no changes to existing programs or services. However, this partnership will expand access to the nation’s largest network of brain injury support and advocacy resources.

“We are excited to welcome the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey into our growing network,” said Rick Willis, President and CEO of BIAA. “Together, we will work to improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by brain injury.”

In the coming months, BIANJ will begin rebranding as the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey. For updates, visit www.bianj.org and follow BIANJ on social media.

About the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey
BIANJ is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life people experience after brain injury. Since being founded in 1981 by a small group of concerned parents of children who had sustained brain injury, BIANJ has grown to become the primary source of information, education, advocacy, support, and hope for people with brain injury and their families in New Jersey. For more information, please visit www.bianj.org.

About the Brain Injury Association of America
The Brain Injury Association of America is the country’s oldest and largest nationwide brain injury advocacy organization. BIAA’s mission is to advance awareness, research, treatment, and education, and to improve the quality of life for all people affected by brain injury. BIAA is dedicated to increasing access to quality health care and raising awareness and understanding of brain injury.

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Questions?

What is the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA)?

The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) has been the leading national voice of brain injury survivors, caregivers, and professionals since 1980. Like the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey, this organization was founded by people whose lives were directly impacted by brain injury.

What does this change mean for supporters and consumers of the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey (BIANJ)?

This transition brings a new logo and refreshed look while maintaining the same strong commitment to New Jersey. Our brand will align with the BIAA network while preserving our identity as your trusted New Jersey resource. In addition, New Jersey will have a more direct role in shaping legislation and policy. As the leading brain injury organization in Washington, D.C., BIAA advocates for policies that impact survivors, caregivers, and professionals. As New Jersey’s official BIAA affiliate, BIANJ is uniquely positioned to elevate your concerns, ideas, and challenges at both the state and national levels.

Will BIANJ still be an independent organization?

Yes! BIANJ will remain an independent New Jersey 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. This affiliation enhances our capabilities while preserving our local autonomy and focus on serving New Jersey residents.

Was BIANJ formerly affiliated with the Brain Injury Association of America?

Yes, BIANJ was affiliated with the Brain Injury Association of America from our inception in 1981 until 2012.

Will this affect funds donated to BIANJ in New Jersey?

No, funds donated to BIANJ will remain in New Jersey to support our local programs and services.

How will this benefit survivors of brain injury and their families in New Jersey?

This partnership will allow us to expand our reach to serve even more New Jersey survivors of brain injury as we interlink with BIAA national awareness campaigns, educational resources, professional training opportunities, and advocacy initiatives. You’ll have access to both local support and national resources.

What additional resources will be available through this affiliation?

As part of the BIAA network, New Jersey survivors, caregivers, and professionals will have access to:

  • Advanced certification programs for brain injury professionals
  • National webinars and training opportunities
  • Educational videos and resources
  • Increased advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C.
  • Connection to a nationwide network of brain injury organizations
  • Opportunities to participate in national awareness campaigns

When will this transition take place?

Over the coming months, BIANJ will begin rebranding as the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey.

How can I stay informed about this transition?

We will keep our community updated through our regular communication channels, including our website (bianj.org), monthly e-newsletters, and social media.

Follow BIANJ for the latest news and information:

  • Instagram: @braininjuryallianceofnj
  • Facebook: @BIAofNJ

Who can I contact if I have questions or concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to:

Wendy Berk, MSW, LCSW
Chief Executive Officer
Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey
732-745-0200
info@bianj.org

We’re here to help. Call 732-783-6172.