UAB Civitan International Research Center

The UAB  Civitan International Research Center is the culmination of over 50  years of Civitans helping people challenged by developmental  disabilities.  The Civitan International Foundation awarded a grant of  up to one million dollars a year for 20 years to The University of  Alabama at Birmingham for the creation of the UAB Civitan International  Research Center, the first institution of its kind in the United States  to be solely dedicated to research of developmental disabilities.  This  generous act by Civitans all over the world put in place tremendous  human, financial, and technical resources to focus on developmental  disabilities.

Through interdisciplinary research, clinical  services, and community programs, the UAB Civitan International Research Center improves the lives of people at risk for or affected by  developmental disabilities. The Center conducts research on the  development of the central nervous system, with special emphasis on  human development and developmental disabilities.  The Sparks Clinic  retains the same focus, but serves the developmentally disabled through  various therapies and special needs programs.  Because the Civitan  International Research Center is a Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Research, Education and Service, it also provides training for professionals to become leaders in the field of developmental  disabilities. The faculty and staff view each person within the context  of the family, community and society, and

Focus on Developmental Disabilities

On an  international level, Civitan is devoted to improving the lives of  children and adults with developmental disabilities.  This focus began  in the 1950s when Civitan funded some of the first special education  training for school teachers.  That commitment continues today through  local and international efforts such as summer camps, vocational  programs, special Olympic games and cutting-edge research, therapies and clinical services at the Civitan International Research Center.

FOUNDATION SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Civitan International Golf Benefit - at Civitan International’s annual convention, Civitans play golf, get sponsors and raise money for the UAB Civitan International Research Center

President’s Council - Tax-deductible membership categories beginning with the Council level at $10 per month with higher membership levels available.  Members receive a lapel pin and invitation to the President’s Council Reception at international conventions.  Money raised by the President’s Council is used for the Planned Giving program and other related expenses.

Civitans At The Helm - Clubs that support Civitan International’s charitable programs are recognized through this program.  Recognition levels are determined by dividing a club’s total donations from the year by the number of club members at that time of year.

Legacy Society - recognizes individuals who contribute to Civitan with a planned gift.  Options include: bequests, designations of life insurance or retirement plan assets, charitable gift annuities, trusts, and gifts of property.  Members receive special recognition and an invitation as guest of honor to the President’s Council Reception at International conventions.

Candy Box & Coin Box - Civitan International provides participating clubs with box displays and candy or coin box displays without charge for a Civitan volunteer to place and maintain.   Candy Boxes: clubs retain 25% of the contributions with 75% remitted to Civitan International to underwrite program expenses  of approximately 15% for charitable purposes.  Coin Boxes:  clubs retain 50% of the contributions and remit 50% to Civitan Internation to cover program costs.

Fellows Program - Civitan clubs or individuals can honor a deserving Civitan through a contribution of $250 or $1,000.