United Spinal Association and National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA), have recently announced their intended merger unifying resources to become the single, largest membership organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D) nationwide.
The combined organization will significantly increase the membership base and will give all members access to a wide range of national programs and services, including an established community of local affiliates. Equally important will be the powerful, authentic consumer voice that the merger will provide at the national level.
NSCIA — which educates and empowers people living with SCI/D to achieve and maintain the highest levels of independence, health and personal fulfillment — serves its members through a combination of national programs and a nationwide network of more than 60 chapters and support groups. NSCIA will continue to operate under its current name and brand, but will expand to become the membership arm of United Spinal Association.
“Together, our organizations can be a stronger advocate on behalf of our community and directly respond to the needs of our members,” Paul J. Tobin, president and chief executive officer, United Spinal Association, stated in a press release.
Tobin will continue in his capacity as president and chief executive officer to lead the combined organization.
“Our national network of local affiliates will connect directly with our combined membership to significantly improve the quality of life for people living with spinal cord injuries and disorders,” K. Eric Larson, NSCIA executive director and chief executive officer, who will take on additional responsibilities as senior vice president for membership and chapter services within United Spinal Association, stated in a press release.
