The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome-Virginia

Our mission at NOFAS-VA is to support families and individuals living with FASD, to educate the public in the state of Virginia about the effects of FASD, to support those living with it and their families, and to aid in the prevention of this disorder. By doing so, we strive to ensure that FASD is broadly recognized as a developmental disability, thereby reducing its stigma and improving the quality of life for affected individuals and families. We are an affiliate of NOFAS, the only international FASD non-profit organization committed to prevention, advocacy and support. 

FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER (FASD) is an umbrella term describing the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy.  These effects may include physical, mental, behavioral and/or learning disabilities.  FASD affects an estimated 40,000 infants in the US alone each year, costing families and taxpayers an estimated $5.4 billion annually in direct and indirect costs.

FASD IS 100% PREVENTABLE WHEN PREGNANT WOMEN ABSTAIN FROM ALCOHOL

In 2007 the Surgeon General issued an Advisory on Alcohol Use in Pregnancy in which he states, " I now wish to emphasize to prospective parents, healthcare practitioners and all childbearing women, especially those who are pregnant, the importance of not drinking alcohol if a woman is pregnant or considering becoming pregnant."

NOFAS-VA offers support groups for those affected by FASD.  We offer in-service presentations and educational curriculums to educators, healthcare providers and the general public.  We offer multiple resources and support.  We are a non-profit public charity.