EDUCATE. SUPPORT. EMPOWER
3110 Edwards Mill Rd, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27612
919-265-3390
www.ncfasdinformed.org
Facebook: NCFASD Informed
Our Mission Statement & Core Values
The mission of our all-volunteer, grassroots, nonprofit organization is to create FASD Informed communities to empower individuals impacted by prenatal exposure to alcohol. We envision a world where individuals with FASD can thrive.
Our History & Background
In early February 2018, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a study led by UNC researcher, Philip May, Ph.D. The study estimated the prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) among first graders in four US communities to be up to one in 20. This study, and the fact that approximately 90% of those with a diagnosable FASD are not even evaluated for this disorder, reinforces that prenatal alcohol exposure is a significant public health issue that can no longer be ignored.
Many times, those affected by alcohol in utero are diagnosed with a variety of mental health diagnoses, none of which are exactly descriptive of symptoms observed; prescribed medication may help those symptoms for a while or not at all. In either case, academic and behavioral challenges continue, and all involved become discouraged. It is important to note that FASD is a whole-body diagnosis and has ramifications for physical health.
The above realities for those with an FASD have been experienced firsthand by the two parents who founded NCFASD Informed. We believe that it is critical that individuals receive accurate diagnoses, as early as possible, so that they can receive comprehensive assistance in their communities. To achieve this goal, we hope to connect those with an FASD and their families to available resources throughout North Carolina.
Our Current Projects & Mental Health Initiatives
- WE recently completed a 4-part training series on FASD with Trillium
- We are advocating for all foster kids to be screened for FASD and provide training to foster parents on FASD.
- We advocate for, as well as facilitate, the training of additional diagnostic practitioners in the state of NC.
Help be a supporter of the FASD Respect ACT
The FASD Respect Act (H.R. 3946/S.1800) is legislation addressing FASD on a federal level, being reintroduced during the 2023-2024 118th Congressional Session. This bi-partisan legislation is co-sponsored in the Senate by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) and in the House of Representatives by Representative Betty McCollum (D-Minnesota, 4th District) and Representative Don Bacon (R-Nebraska, 2nd).
