Hope in Action: Inside ARBI’s Life-Changing Brain Injury Programs

That’s where ARBI steps in. With over 45 years of experience serving Alberta, people from across the country come to take part in ARBI’s unique approach to neurorehabilitation. ARBI offers a lifeline: compassionate, expert-guided rehabilitation and community support that gives survivors—and their loved ones—a chance to rebuild, reconnect, and reclaim hope.

A Unique, Proven Approach to Brain Injury Rehabilitation

ARBI isn’t just another clinic. Founded in 1978, specifically to involve volunteers in supporting brain injury recovery, ARBI has pioneered activity-based neurorehabilitation through a blended professional-and-volunteer service model that delivers long-term support for acquired brain injuries (from traumatic accidents, strokes, tumours, and more). Clients receive personalized plans from therapists and a caring support network, drawing on the science of neuroplasticity to help them relearn lost abilities and rebuild independence. Over the years, volunteers and practicum students from universities across the country have come to ARBI, and the organization takes great pride in its role in educating future healthcare professionals.

Healing the Whole Person—Not Just Treating Symptoms

ARBI’s services go beyond physical rehabilitation and include occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, psychological support, wellness services, fitness, adaptive cooking, and support for independence and community living.
They also support caregivers—offering social work, counselling, peer support, and mindfulness programs, recognizing the ripple effect brain injury can have on families.

Restoring Dignity, Community, and Purpose

For many stroke and brain injury survivors, life after injury means isolation—losing touch with hobbies, friends, or daily routines. ARBI’s fitness, leisure, and community programs help people rediscover social connection, purpose, and joy.
Participants learn life and social skills, engage in meaningful activities, and gradually reclaim their place in the community.

Built on Compassion, Community, and Hope

The heart of ARBI’s work is the belief that every person—no matter how severe their injury—deserves a second chance. ARBI’s values are hope, dignity, inclusion, connection, and community.
Since its founding in 1978 by a small group of volunteers, ARBI has grown into a trusted support system for thousands of brain injury survivors.

How to get involved

VOLUNTEER
You don’t need to be a healthcare professional to help. Volunteers play a critical role: working alongside therapists, supporting clients in therapy and recreation, offering companionship, and helping rebuild lives.

FUNDRAISE OR DONATE IN KIND
Host a community event or offer goods or services that support ARBI’s mission. Non-monetary contributions are welcome and may be tax-receiptable if eligible.

RAISW AWARENESS
Share the stories of survivors, and help break down the isolation and stigma often associated with brain injury—because public support helps build a more inclusive and understanding community.

Imagine regaining the ability to speak, walk, socialize—to live again. For the people ARBI supports, this isn’t just a dream. It’s a journey in progress. With compassion, expertise, and community, ARBI gives survivors and families a real chance at a fulfilling life.

Your support—whether through donating, volunteering, or spreading the word—doesn’t just help a person recover. It helps rebuild lives, restore dignity, and bring people back into the community.