Groups and Organization

There are few groups and organizations involved to fully support and improve the lives of people with the dwarfism disability. The Billy Barty Foundation was founded by Billy Barty, who also founded Little People of America. Both these foundations are on a mission to guarantee an acceptable and improved quality of life for Little People through education, employment, accessibility and athletic programs. The primary objectives are to eliminate attitudinal barriers, myths and false negative stereotypes of Little People by providing society examples of achievement and inspiration, and to disseminate information to the general public at large as well as to Little People and their families. The Foundation strives to assist people of short stature to live more independently and productively, and is committed to develop unique and necessary accommodations and services. The Dwarf Athletic Association of America was formed in 1985 to develop, promote and provide quality amateur level athletic opportunities for dwarf athletes in the United States. Their mission is "To encourage people with dwarfism to participate in sports regardless of their level of skills". Another group is the Little People's Research Fund (LPRF) is a health organization that supports research for the special medical needs of people affected with skeletal dysplasia. The organization funds research on the orthopedic disabilities associated with dwarfism. LPRF operates the Pierre House, which is located on the campus of Saint Joseph Medical Center. This serves as a home away from home for patients' families. Finally, the MAGIC (Major Aspects of Growth In Children) Foundation is a national non-profit organization providing support and education regarding growth disorders in children and related adult disorders, including Adult Growth Hormone Disorder. It was founded in 1989 by five families of children with growth disorders. MAGIC claims to be the leading organization of growth disorders in the United States, with over 6,000 members in the MAGIC network. MAGIC covers over 100 different types of growth disorders, ten specific divisions, and educational/supportive services worldwide.