Our Story

In the 1990s, resources were scarce for eating disorders, deadly psychiatric and physical conditions especially prevalent among young girls. Reba Sloan, MPH, LRD, FAED and Ovidio Bermudez, MD, two of the pioneer treatment providers in the Nashville area, believed that better support would make a difference. In 1999, the two formed a task force to plan for a wider solution to empower and help those who suffered.

Based in Nashville, the creation of the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee was the first step toward realizing their vision. Funding was limited and volunteers, while dedicated, were few. The initiative progressed in 2002 when the group organized as a 501(c)3 non-profit and formed its first board of directors. Staffed by volunteers and a part-time executive director, it focused on professional care provider education and community prevention. But the team pushed for more.

In late 2005, focus shifted from simple awareness programs in schools to a broader, highly visible call-to-action for both healthcare professionals and the community at large. Volunteers grew, programs launched, fundraising increased and the organization met with success as their clinician referral network grew.

Today, the organization has become a critical resource for one-on-one treatment referrals and a supportive community for all those effected directly or indirectly. New full time staff is in place, professional networks are aligning, memberships are growing, donations and grants are increasing.

To reflect its wider and more robust capabilities and to amplify its mission, the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee is now known as Renewed, Eating Disorders Support. Always serving with compassion and respect, we continue to grow as a resource for those facing any type of eating disorder challenge. We are dedicated to inspire courage for today, trust in recovery and hope for a renewed tomorrow.