Start a Chapter - Neuroimmune Foundation

Start a local chapter!

Our chapters serve as a local touchpoint for families grappling with neuroimmune disorders including all types of encephalitis, PANS, and PANDAS. We are always accepting applications for new chapter leaders worldwide!

Please first read over our 10 Principles and then submit your application below.
Please be as honest as possible in your application.
Please note chapters are currently on hold due to COVID-19 but we are still accepting applications.

Our chapters adhere to the following 10 principles:

We provide peer-to-peer support but never provide medical advice. We do not share confidential stories with others.
We share from our personal experiences with acknowledgement that what has worked for our child may not work for others.
We acknowledge that PANS, PANDAS, and neuroimmune disorders have a very wide spectrum of severity. Response or lack thereof to treatment is not a reflection of caregiver and physician expertise in most cases, but rather a need for better research leading to successful treatment options for all children. Treatment failure does not mean a child does not have PANS, PANDAS, or a neuroimmune disorder.
There is no scientific research proving that children with sub-acute onsets of symptoms have a disorder that is unlike children with abrupt onsets. Families of children without abrupt onsets are welcome in our groups and will not be made to feel less than.
PANS has no age restrictions. Parents of adults are welcome in our groups.
Children with autism can have PANS or another neuroimmune disorder just like any neurotypical child. Families of children with autism and a neuroimmune disorder are welcome in our groups.
We do not tolerate discrimination or personal attacks.
We whole-heartedly welcome new families and caregivers into the fold.
We accept that the research on PANS, PANDAS, and neuroimmune disorders is in its infancy and more questions exist than answers.
Above all, chapters exist so that families and caretakers have a safe space to share their experiences and embrace each other in an encouraging, warm, and non-judgmental atmosphere.

Chapter Leader Application

Application for Volunteer Leadership Role in _____________ (list below your region, state, or country which will be referred to as the “area”) with Neuroimmune Foundation*
Name*
First Last
Address*
Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code Country
Email*
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Telephone*
Reference 1 (non-family, name and number):*
Reference 2 (non-family, name and number):*
I have read over the 10 Principles and I agree/do not agree with them.*
Please describe why you have an interest in a volunteer leadership role and if you’ve been involved in a leadership or advocacy role in the past:*
I understand I *may not* invite any speakers to Neuroimmune Foundation chapter meetings that I host without *written* approval from Neuroimmune Foundation's Board of Directors.*
I agree/do not agree that I am able to host quarterly support group meetings at a coffee shop or public place if selected to lead a chapter.*
I agree/do not agree that if selected to lead a chapter, I will not attempt to sell any product to anyone who comes into contact with me as a result of my position as a volunteer for Neuroimmune Foundation.*
I agree/do not agree (choose one) that if selected to lead a chapter I will provide peer-to-peer support but never medical advice.*
I agree/do not agree with this statement: There is no evidence that children without abrupt onsets of OCD or other symptoms have a disorder that is completely different from children with abrupt onsets.*
I agree/do not agree with this statement: Children with autism can have PANS or another neuroimmune disorder just like any neurotypical child.*
I agree/do not agree with this statement: PANS has no age restrictions. There is no evidence to suggest most or all children will outgrow PANS or that it will not persist into adulthood.*
I agree/do not agree with this statement: No one treatment works for all children. Treatment failure does not mean a child does not have PANS or a neuroimmune disorder.*
I agree/do not agree with this statement: If selected to lead a chapter, I will watch neuroimmune.org’s CME webinars prior to hosting my first meeting so I am up to date on current research. I will continue to watch the new CME as they’re published (provided free of charge).*
I am/am not interested in helping Neuroimmune Foundation with fundraisers?*
I am/am not interested in fundraising to bring a speaker with expertise in neuroimmune disorders to my Area for Grand Rounds.*
I do/do not know of a physician at a local hospital who may be a connection for a Grand Rounds invitation.*
I am aware of the following similar advocacy work already taking place in my Area (please describe and share how it is or is not meeting the needs of your community in your opinion):*
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