Nonprofits in Massachusetts

As a senior case writer and researcher at Harvard’s Global Health Delivery Project, I have had the opportunity to study the strategy and effectiveness of numerous programs operating in resource limited settings around the world. Last year, my work enabled me to get to know Pathfinder International intimately, as I and my team developed a case study of Mukta, one of Pathfinder’s HIV prevention programs in India. Throughout my experience researching the program and working with Pathfinder’s staff there, I came to appreciate the strength of Pathfinder’s human rights framework and its implications for their work on the ground. Mukta works with marginalized female sex workers and men who have sex with men, key populations whose vulnerability to HIV is exacerbated by structural and social factors that create formidable barriers not only to their ability to access HIV prevention and treatment services, but to their day-to-day safety. Pathfinder’s staff united excellent management practices with their human rights framework to build the capacity not only of the local NGOs they deliver services through, but of the communities themselves to set agendas, develop strategies to effect the change they deem most necessary and, ultimately, improve health outcomes. I was consistently impressed by Pathfinder’s commitment to excellence in management and data use practices, as well as their focus on sustainable change both for communities and for the governments who represent them.

Greetings, <br>I am currently located in Kuwait and have really enjoyed all of the information and activites that I have seen from the MOER Foundation . <br> <br>Their programs especially for Community Development for Youngmen are superb! <br> <br>Best of luck with all of the works !

The Brain Aneurysm Foundation is a worthy and helpful organization. I survived a brain aneurysm rupture in 2015, and the BAF have been extremely helpful! I survived a brain aneurysm rupture (4-5 mm) in Sept 2015, ICU, three surgeries, rehab etc. Nearly died 3 times! SURVIVED it all!<br> <br>The hospital asked me to record a video. Here it is (runs 2 mins):<br> <br>https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/neurosciences/neurosciences-patient-stories/<br><br> I highly recommend the Brain Aneurysm Foundation as a top notch non=profit.

I have nothing but good things to say about Community Health Center, their model for care, their mission, their dedication to their community, and their way of doing business. All in all, a great organization!

How a Brain Tumor Changed My Life<br>www.braintumor.org<br><br>In 2010 my world was turned upside down when I was diagnosed with a nearly fist sized meningioma brain tumor. For months, I experienced strange aversions to smells, and had bizarre out of body sensations. My gut was screaming at me 'you have a brain tumor'. Unfortunately, an MRI would ultimately prove my suspicions were right. I was referred to Dr. William Curry, a brilliant neurosurgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital. He removed the entire tumor, and I made a full recovery. I am tumor free today, but continue to be monitored in case of a recurrence. <br><br>Originally, I kept my diagnosis, surgery, and recovery mostly private, as I could never imagine going public with my experience. But along the road to recovery, I met two friends that were also battling brain tumors. I now had an opportunity to share what I had learned, felt, and the chance to help other patients feel like they were not alone. Having that feeling that others will never understand what you're going through, and the fear that you'll never feel like yourself again is terrifying. I hoped I could be a source of strength for others that just started their brain tumor journey. Inspired by the National Brain Tumor Society in 2013, my new friends and I started a fundraising team, Three Fine Limes, to raise money for brain tumor research. <br><br>Sadly, our friend, Steven Aitken, lost his battle with brain cancer in 2014. In honor of Steve, Three Fine Limes participated in the Boston Brain Tumor Walk, and this year I have taken our team on the road to the Washington DC Race for Hope. I am heading to Phoenix in a few weeks, to participate in their 5K. Three Fine Limes are taking on brain tumors in three cities for 2015!<br><br>Three Fine Limes also participated in Head to the Hill, the National Brain Tumor Society's lobby day. Advocates from 38 states attended meetings with members of Congress, to discuss needs of the brain tumor community. At the recent inaugural Grey Gala, the NBTS Interim CEO, David Arons said ' We're a society because that's a group that fights for each other'. I cannot think of a more inspiring group of people to be fighting alongside. <br><br>Because of my personal experience, and the other amazing brain tumor survivors I have met along the way, and for the brain tumor patients who fought courageously, but did not win their battle, I donate, participate in events, volunteer, and advocate for the National Brain Tumor Society ( http://braintumor.org ) to ensure that one day a cure for this terrible disease will be found.

I started volunteering for The Autism Research Foundation when I was in college because I wanted to understand autism science. TARF's research coordinator, Jerry, walked me through the lab and explained the brain research to me in such a clear, concise way. Even though I wasn't a scientist, I felt like I could have a conversation with Jerry. He taught me how to explain the autism research to families, professionals, and other students like me. It was an invaluable experience that I now share with the new volunteers and families we help! Through Jerry, TARF demonstrated a commitment to making autism approachable and interesting, which makes me feel confident in helping TARF fundraise for its continued work. I know I will volunteer for as long as I can!