Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Northern Alberta

Member Benefits

Here are a few of the benefits of becoming a member of the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Northern Alberta:

NoLimits Peer Support Evenings—we are pleased to continue our monthly peer support evenings which are open to individuals with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, their parents or guardians, and other family members. We meet monthly and have a special topic, guest speaker or activity for each meeting. Check the NoLimits Support Evenings page for information on upcoming NoLimits events.

Toddler Wheelchair Loaner Program—we have a toddler sized wheelchair available to lend out to families who are in the process of getting their child a wheelchair. A child sized wheelchair is a great way to encourage independence in your child, allow for eye-to-eye peer contact and build wheelchair skills. Click for the application form.

Scholarship—we have two scholarships available each year for students with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus who are pursuing post secondary education. Each scholarship has a value of $1000. The deadline each year is August 31st. Click for more information and the application form.

Support Fund—SBHANA offers a support fund of up to $1000 each year for individuals with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. The support fund is designed to assist with the cost of specialized leisure and recreational equipment, medical equipment, services such as specialized lessons or camps and emergency personal expenses directly resulting from the fact that the person has spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. Click for more information or the application form.

Social Events—Each year, SBHANA invites all members to attend a summer BBQ and a Christmas party. Attending these social events is a great way to get support from others who have had similar experiences, meet new individuals with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus and have a fun time!

Newsletters—two to three times per year, the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Northern Alberta Newsletter is delivered to our members. Each newsletter is full of information about upcoming events, volunteer requests, member accomplishments, opportunities, stories, photos from social events, book reviews and useful information. Click to check out our current and past newsletters.

Member Education Fund—the purpose of this fund is to provide members of the SBHANA with the opportunity to further their education and understanding of spina bifida and hydrocephalus through the attendance of national and international conferences. Click for more information and for the application form.

Camp Freedom—each summer, SBHANA organizes and holds a 4 day camp for teens aged 12-18 at Camp He Ho Ha. Some of the great activities that are included are: swimming, crafts, basketball, dance, wall climbing, games, campfire, mini golf, canoes and paddle boats! Interested applicants must be a current member to apply for camp. Please visit the Camp Freedom webpage for more information.

Social Networking—if you are going through something and you would like to speak to someone who has gone through the same or a similar thing, call the office and we will try to connect you with that voice of experience.

Informative Resources—the SBHANA has a small resource library with books, binders, information sheets, videos and brochures. Please call the office to arrange a time to view our resource centre.

Click Here to download our membership form.