ANNUAL BENEFITS - ALL LEVELS OF MEMBERSHIP

Thank you for considering membership. Your support will help fund programs for brain injury survivors in the South Okanagan. Membership benefits include:

Access to certain social activities, like the annual BBQ
Invitation to attend and vote at the Annual General Meeting
Quarterly newsletter, BrainWaves
Updates on specific programs and groups
Membership is valid for one year, from January 1 to December 31

There are 4 types of membership available:

Survivor Membership

Membership is FREE for any and all survivors of brain injury

Caregiver Membership

Membership is FREE for any interested community member or caregiver

Family Membership

Membership is FREE and covers all family members of a brain injury survivor

Corporate Membership

Membership is $100 and allows a business to designate one person to act on behalf of their business

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES - ABI (ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY)

Are you passionate about helping others and making a difference in the community? We’re looking for dedicated volunteers who want to contribute their time and skills to make a positive impact.

As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to:

Work alongside our dedicated and passionate staff, who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Each member is deeply committed to our cause and strive to make a meaningful difference daily.
Assist our staff with group activities
Provided 1:1 support to individuals with acquired brain injuries

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society (SOSBIS), is a society that provides wrap-around services to better support people living with acquired brain injuries. In 1991, SOSBIS became a registered not for profit. Over the years our services for brain injury survivors & their families, has grown and we continue to add the services and community supports that the people need.

Ensuring individuals have access to safe, affordable housing was one of those services that we saw a need for. So, in 2003, we took over existing subsidized housing and continue to add various types of housing to our portfolio. Because of this, we can offer low-cost housing for families, seniors & individuals living with disabilities. Once an individual has secured safe and affordable housing, they can then focus on their personal goals.

SOSBIS seeks to maintain and expand its services to the community on the whole through a multitude of programs it delivers and through the housing it is able to provide.

SOSBIS, a not-for-profit organization, is governed by a board of directors which is made up of professionals who have skills, such as: Accounting, Marketing and Legal expertise. Interested parties will be critical thinkers, who have some knowledge of brain injury and who work well within a team.

We are seeking individuals to serve on our Board of Directors in this capacity, while serving the greater community. Training will be provided.

HAVE AN IDEA? WANT TO COLLABORATE?

If you have an idea for an event or are interested in partnering with our organization, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re always excited to hear new ideas and explore potential collaborations!

SUPPORT OUR MISSION

Every contribution makes a difference. Your generous donations help us continue the vital work in supporting those with brain injury, mental health conditions or those who are faced with unsafe housing or who have become homeless.

How your donation helps with our cause:

Programs – your support allows us to run essential programs that give our clients hope and the tools necessary to move forward
Community Support – donations help us to provide resources and assistance to those in need
Sustainable Growth – your contribution helps us expand our reach and create a brighter future for those seeking our services

FAQ'S

What is acquired brain injury (ABI)?

An acquired brain injury (ABI) is any type of brain damage that occurs after birth, as opposed to a brain injury that is congenital or present from birth.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

This is caused by an external force, such as a blow to the head, a fall, or a car accident.

What is a Non-Traumatic Brain Injury?

This type of ABI is caused by internal factors such as:

- Stroke: When the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke).
- Infections: Brain infections like meningitis or encephalitis.
- Hypoxic/Anoxic Injury: This occurs when the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen, which can happen in situations such as cardiac arrest, near-drowning, or respiratory failure.
- Tumors: Brain tumors can cause pressure or damage to brain tissue.
- Toxins or Drugs: Certain drugs, alcohol, or poisoning can lead to brain injury.

What are the immediate signs and symptoms of a brain injury? Some symptoms are:

Bothered by light or noise
Dizziness or balance problems
Feeling tired, no energy
Headaches
Nausea or vomiting (early on)
Vision problems
Attention or concentration problems
Feeling slowed down
Foggy or groggy
Problems with short- or long-term memory
Trouble thinking clearly

What services does SOSBIS provide?

Here at SOSBIS, we are committed to supporting individuals affected by Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), mental health conditions, and their housing needs. Our services include education, resources, advocacy, and support for both individuals and their caregivers or families. For questions about our services, go to our CONTACT section.