Parkinson's-focused nonprofit in Sarasota names new CEO

Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers, has named nonprofit leader Jennifer Bitner CEO. 

Bitner has more than 24 years of expertise in nonprofit leadership and business development, according to a statement. She was most recently executive director of the Punta Gorda Symphony, according to her LinkedIn profile. Directly before that she was executive director of the Cat Depot in Sarasota. She’s also worked for the March of Dimes and Leukemia Lymphoma Society, the release states, and oversaw the Humane Society of Pensacola.

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“I am thrilled to be joining Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s as the new CEO,” Bitner says in the release. “I look forward to working with the staff, board, donors, volunteers and community partners to make a positive impact on the lives of people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers and families.”

As Neuro Challenge CEO, Bitner will oversee the overall administration and management of the organization, including development, programs, business operations and grow earned income brands including the Parkinson’s Expo and the Neuro Challenge Network. She will also focus on fundraising efforts, fiscal management, operational management and administration, among other responsibilities, the release states. 

“Jennifer is a great asset to our team at Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s,” Board Chair Cynthia Miller says in the statement. “Jennifer’s innovative and influential leadership will support the organization’s mission and vision.” 

Neuro Challenge was created in 2008 to improve the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers. The organization provides individualized care advising, community resource referrals and education, therapeutic and support programs both online and in Southwest Florida including Sarasota, Manatee, Pinellas, Highlands, Marion and Charlotte counties. Neuro Challenge also hosts The Parkinson’s Expo, the largest single day free Parkinson’s event in the U.S., held annually in Manatee County. All Neuro Challenge services and programs are offered at no cost to people with Parkinson’s disease and their loved ones.