James Madison University’s Brain Injury Research Team (BIRT) conducted a comprehensive research project funded by the Commonwealth Neurotrauma Initiative (CNI) through the Administration for Community Living’s (ACL) TBI state partnership grant. The purpose was to assess and enhance brain injury services across Virginia by evaluating the current landscape of brain injury services across the Commonwealth. This multi-phased, mixed methods initiative evaluated both existing resources and unmet needs, particularly in areas previously lacking state-funded brain injury services. This project took place from July 2024 - July 2026.

Key Objectives:

• Statewide Evaluation – The project team utilized mixed methods—generating insights from survivors, caregivers, and providers—to analyze needs and resources. Focus was paid to underserved regions of Virginia, ensuring equitable access to brain injury services.
• Informing Future Planning – Findings will contribute to Virginia’s next state plan for brain injury services and contribute to future federal grant applications.
• Participatory Approach – · A core component of this project was ensuring individuals with brain injuries and their families actively participated in the assessment, development, and analysis processes. The project team included two consultants with lived experience of brain injury who represent the survivor and caregiver communities.
• Data-Driven Insights – The project team integrated data from multiple sources within and outside of Virginia. 
• Dissemination of Findings – The project team will collaborate with Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) to develop strategies for sharing results with policymakers, service providers, and the public.   

General Questions? Email meixnecx@jmu.edu

For more information, please contact:

• Cara Meixner, Principal Investigator, at meixnecx@jmu.edu 
• Cynthia O’Donoghue, Co-Principal Investigator, at odonogcr@jmu.edu