Flying High For 103 Years: The Blue Bird Circle Supports Pediatric Neurology Through Compassion And Care

The Blue Bird Circle, a women-led nonprofit committed to advancing pediatric neurology research and improving the lives of children with neurological disorders, proudly enters its 103rd year of service. As a staple in the Houston community, the organization has created a lasting legacy built on hope, compassion and volunteer-driven impact.

"Generations of Blue Bird women have given their time, talent, and heart to make a real difference in the lives of children and their families,” said Gail Branca, President of The Blue Bird Circle. “We’re honored to continue that mission today, knowing the work we do touches not just Houston, but families across the country.

Founded in January 1923 by fifteen women seeking to create a meaningful community, The Blue Bird Circle began as a social service organization and has since evolved into a powerful, membership-based nonprofit. Rooted in a spirit of service, the group chose the blue bird as their namesake, envisioning a circle united by love and goodwill. Since focusing its mission in 1949 specifically on children with neurological conditions, the organization has raised millions of dollars in support, while building a network of volunteers committed to making a difference.

The Blue Bird Circle Clinic for Pediatric Neurology, established in 1949, is the largest pediatric neurology clinic in the United States, offering a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to care. Located within Texas Children’s Hospital, the clinic bridges cutting-edge scientific discovery with compassionate treatment, serving as the clinical research arm of the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, The Blue Bird Circle Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory and The Blue Bird Circle Rett Center. Together, these institutions are at the forefront of developing tomorrow’s treatments and cures for childhood neurological disorders. The Blue Bird Circle Neurogenetics Laboratory at Baylor College of Medicine, founded in the late 1990s, has made groundbreaking advancements in epilepsy research including the identification of over 40 genes linked to common childhood seizure disorders.

“What makes The Blue Bird Circle truly special is the spirit of its members; women who roll up their sleeves, give their time freely, and take joy in helping others,” said Helen Welk, PR Committee Chair of The Blue Bird Circle. “The science we fund and the families we support are changing lives every day.”

In addition to its philanthropic efforts, The Blue Bird Circle operates a resale and consignment shop, located at 615 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006. Open Tuesday – Friday from 10 AM – 3 PM and Saturday from 10 AM – 2 PM, the store features a wide array of furniture, home goods, clothing, jewelry and accessories. It also offers consigning for those looking to sell without the hassle of sourcing a buyer. Proceeds from the shop directly support the organization’s mission.

At The Blue Bird Circle, working alongside other dedicated volunteers who want to make a difference is paramount. To become a member, please visit https://thebluebirdcircle.com/become-a-member/.

About The Blue Bird Circle

Founded in 1923 by a group of visionary young women from First Methodist Church in Houston, The Blue Bird Circle is a volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children with neurological disorders. For over a century, the organization has combined service, philanthropy, and community spirit to support pediatric neurology clinics and research at Texas Children’s Hospital and the Baylor College of Medicine.

For more information, visit https://thebluebirdcircle.com/. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.