MISSION

The Brad Cohen Tourette Foundation, Inc. (BCTF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) whose aim is to help children who have Tourette syndrome learn how to exist in the real world with others who don’t understand. We support the socialization, achievement, and education of individuals with Tourette syndrome and the non-profit/tax-exempt organizations that focus on the needs of those with Tourette syndrome.

VISION

Our vision is to challenge perceptions and embrace differences so that every child with Tourette syndrome has a chance to follow their dreams.

HISTORY

Brad Cohen just wanted to be treated like everyone else. However, growing up with Tourette syndrome presented challenges that caused him to be different. Loud noises and funny faces is what the outside world saw, but on the inside was a motivated and determined child who was ready to show others that just because you're different or have some sort of disability, you can still be successful.

Brad’s dream was to be a teacher, the kind of teacher he never had. With the support of his family and friends he strived for his goal. After 25 interviews and proving to others that he could be an effective teacher despite having Tourette syndrome, Brad was hired as a second grade teacher. He went on to be the First Class Teacher of the Year for the state of Georgia.

Brad has also been active in the community and always cheers for the underdog - the child who does not have a voice. He has immersed himself with others who have Tourette syndrome as a role model for showing them to follow their dreams. Brad decided to write a book about his experiences entitled: Front of the Class: How Tourette Syndrome Made Me the Teacher I Never Had. His book was named the Education Book of the Year and was featured in People Magazine. Brad was then featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show and CNN.  Brad's inspiration gained more and more momentum as he assumed the role as a motivational speaker throughout the United States.

Brad’s story found its way in the hands of Hallmark Hall of Fame, where they filmed the movie, Front of the Class, based on his book.  Twelve million viewers watched Brad's story, which is now available on DVD.

Brad knew his story was making a difference, but he was not finished. He always enjoyed going to camp, because he was able to be himself and focus on his strengths. He had friends. He felt free. This is the opposite feeling he had in the classroom where his teachers made him an outcast.  His teachers often kicked him out of class, which led to continuous bullying by other students. With this in mind, Brad knew that camp experiences and extracurricular activities are a place for kids with challenges to shine. He wanted there to be a camp for kids with Tourette syndrome. Brad started a one week overnight camp for kids with Tourette’s, but it did not last due to inadequate funding. Years later, Brad was able to help start Camp Twitch and Shout.

Brad quickly realized he was not quite finished.  He knew that some kids were unable to attend camp due to financial reasons. This is when Brad decided the Foundation needed to be started. It is his goal to raise enough money to allow any child the opportunity to attend a camp for kids with Tourette syndrome regardless of their financial means.  At the same time, Brad would like to raise money to help fund other programs, conferences, and educational experiences to help make a difference in the Tourette community.

Brad may not be able to save the world, but he will come close with your help. It is his goal to make a difference one day at a time. Brad again has a dream that his Foundation will help make dreams come true for others with Tourette syndrome as he challenges people’s perceptions and embraces differences within communities across the country.

PROJECTS WE SUPPORT:

• Camp Twitch and Shout (Atlanta, GA) June 27th-July 2nd
• Tourette Syndrome Camp USA (Chicago, IL) June 20th-26th
• Other camps that support TS children
• Family Weekends for those with Tourette syndrome
• Conferences to help educate others
• Scholarships for people with TS

HOW CAN YOU HELP US?:

1. Make a donation!
2. If you are involved with another group that can use the support of the BCTF, please let us know.
3. If you would like to help organize a fundraiser to support the BCTF, let us know and we will get you whatever you need to help make this happen.
4. Help with a new Website Design and Development
5. Help us seek money from and write grants
6. Help us create a database
7. Help with PR and Marketing Strategies

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Brad Cohen, President

Norman Cohen, Treasurer

Todd Malloy, Secretary

Joe Pereles

Kellie Weeks

Dr. Steve Nemerson

Lisa Palmarini

Jimmy Wolk

SENIOR ADVISORY BOARD:

Tim Shriver

Sheryl Pruitt