Idaho Advocate for the Eradication of Epilepsy

The Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho, established in 1971, is a non-profit agency committed to the prevention and control of epilepsy and to helping people with epilepsy and their families overcome the problems associated with the disorder.

The Epilepsy Foundation works to achieve these goals through a broad range of client services.

The Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho is an independently incorporated affiliate of the Epilepsy Foundation, the only national charitable, non-profit, voluntary agency in the United States specifically dedicated to the needs of people with epilepsy.

New Executive Director Appointment

The Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho is pleased to announce the appointment of Marcia Karakas as Executive Director.  Current Executive Director David Blackwell is retiring after 26 years of exemplary service to the EFI.  Marcia has more than 20 years experience in non-profit organizations, as a volunteer and executive, most recently with Make-A-Wish of Idaho.  Prior to working in non-profit, she held account executive positions in the sales and marketing fields.  Mrs. Karakas holds a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the University of Wisconsin, Superior and began her career teaching English and Communication Skills.  As the EFI Executive Director, she will provide the overall leadership and management for all affiliate activities with a focus on community outreach programs and public awareness.  Marcia is very excited about the opportunity to work in our Boise community as well as with the offices in Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls.  Marcia’s door is always open. 

Please stop-by to learn more about the Foundation, help with education and advocacy in our community, or volunteer & participate in the special events/fundraisers that help the more than 15,000 Idahoans dealing with seizure disorders. 

Marcia will be directing the 2nd annual Sharon’s Ride/Walk/Run on Oct 25, hosting the awareness of National Epilepsy Month in November, directing the 26th annual black-tie fundraiser St. Valentine’s Day Massacre on Feb 20, 2009 and 8th annual fabulously fun Golf Tournament on June 20, 2009.  

Feel free to visit the Foundation at 310 W. Idaho St, Boise to congratulate David and welcome Marcia.

Events

• BAND Conference ( BEHAVIORAL ASPECTS OF NEUROLOGICAL DISEASE)
  October 10, 2008 through October 11, 2008
  This conference has been specifically designed to bring together and further educate Western neurologists, psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, clinical social workers, primary care providers, counselors, & other allied health and mental health professionals in how to recognize and understand the behavioral aspects of neurological disease in their patients.
  
  
• Sharon’s Ride, Run, Walk
  Saturday October 25, 2008 (UPDATED DATE)
  
  
  2007 Sharon's Ride
  Photos Online
  
  
  

The Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho has copies of Greg Mortenson’s bestselling book, Three Cups of Tea, available for purchase in our Boise office.  Cost is $15.

Events benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho

Our Vision  

The Epilepsy Foundation of Idaho (EFI) is a proactive and progressive service organization.  We are the most powerful advocate for the eradication of epilepsy in the state.  By 2025

• the stigma associated with epilepsy will no longer exist.
• EFI will be fully funded to accomplish its mission.
• We will provide the full range of statewide support, services, and education to people with epilepsy, their families, and their communities.   

Adopted January 10, 2006
Revised and adopted April 18, 2007

Epilepsy is . . .

EPILEPSY is something you have not who you are. Nearly 3 million Americans have epilepsy, and 200,000 new cases will be diagnosed this year. If you're one of them - or you know someone who is - you're not alone. We can help.

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