Epilepsy Foundation seeks protection of charitable assets

From staff reports

The Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania, a former affiliate of the Epilepsy Foundation of America, filed a proceeding Tuesday in the Court of Common Pleas, Allegheny County, Orphans Court to seek protection of charitable assets, the former affiliate said in a news release.

In addition, the former affiliate seeks court clarification that funds raised in Pennsylvania for local epilepsy programs should be used to service the state’s residents and their families who are coping with the disorder.

According to the release, in question is a fund balance of about $5.6 million raised to provide and keep local services.

In May, the former affiliation opted to not sign a new affiliation pact, as it determined the new EFA agreement shifts its mission and agenda from emphasis on local services and personalized support to prioritizing research, fundraising for research, and public awareness related to research, according to the release.

“The new agreement would limit the Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania’s ability to continue providing real-time, local programs that help people who are living with seizures today,” said Peggy Beem Jelley, the former affiliate’s president and CEO.