In an effort to serve more people with Spina Bifida, the Spina Bifida Association of Central Florida—currently a separate 501c3 organization serving 22 of Florida’s 67 counties—is uniting with the Spina Bifida Association of America (SBA) and being expanded to a statewide SBA of Florida chapter.  

“We’re very excited about these changes,” said Sara Struwe, SBA’s President and CEO. “We’re streamlining operations in a way that allows us to put more staff time and resources on mission, addressing the issues people with Spina Bifida face in Florida and across the U.S. We plan to be a good partner with other Spina Bifida groups in Florida to fill gaps where there is a need for more support.” 

These changes will allow SBA to focus more resources on programmatic efforts and serve more people across a larger area by reducing duplicative overhead expenses. Additionally, the new chapter will have the full resources of the national organization available, including expanded fundraising, event management, and program support. 

Programming will continue to be guided by a volunteer advisory group of Florida residents living with Spina Bifida, care partners, clinicians, and others with expertise and passion about SBA’s mission. All programs and events supported by SBA of Central Florida will continue uninterrupted, including their annual Walk-N-Roll scheduled for 10 a.m. on Nov. 4 at Dr. Phillips Community Park in Orlando. 

Ambar Payne, SBA manager of field relations and a local Florida resident, will be the primary staff contact for the new chapter. She can be reached directly at (202) 221-5310 or [email protected]. Florida residents and others needing information or referral support can contact SBA’s National Resource Center at (800) 621-3141 Ext. 800.