Briarwood Christian School junior Elaina Burt started a nonprofit called Charlie’s Chance and now works to raise awareness about epilepsy, advocate for people suffering from it and raise money to enrich their lives.
Elaina Burt took it upon herself to organize a fundraising gala for Epilepsy Foundation Alabama this past November. The gala, Wings of Hope, drew about 200 people and raised more than $32,000.
Epilepsy Foundation Alabama director promoted amid national downsizing
Photo by Jon Anderson.
Hoover resident Sara Franklin is the new executive director of community engagement for Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana for the Epilepsy Foundation. Franklin was diagnosed with epilepsy in late 2018.
Hoover resident Sara Franklin, who has served as executive director of the Alabama chapter of the national Epilepsy Foundation since September 2019, has been named the executive director of community engagement for Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.
The expanded role comes in the wake of five or six rounds of layoffs by the national organization, Franklin said.
âNonprofit organizations are being hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic because of the cancellation of so many events,â Franklin said. âItâs hard to raise money virtually.â
Epilepsy foundation celebrates 50th year
Scott Stantis, left, on his wedding day with his brother, Marc. Ã
Photo courtesy of Sara Franklin.
Epilepsy Foundation Alabama Executive Director Sara Franklin with U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer at the 2020 Epilepsy Foundation Alabama event. Ã
Photo courtesy of Sara Franklin.
Last yearâs Epilepsy Foundation Alabama event was held at Railroad Park. Due to COVID-19, its 50th anniversary event will be virtual on Jan. 26. Ã
Photo courtesy of Garland Stansell.
Garland Stansell, right, with his father ThurmanStansell, left, mother Linda Stansell, center left, and wife Anne Stansell at the 2019 Walk to End Epilepsy. Ã
Photo courtesy of Scott Stantis.