Stuttering Foundation of America

Stuttering Foundation of America

The Stuttering Foundation of America is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing resources, support, and advocacy for those affected by stuttering, also known as stammering. Founded in 1947 by Malcolm Fraser, a businessman who himself was a person who stuttered, the foundation has grown to become a leading entity in the field of stuttering research and education. Its mission is to improve the lives of people who stutter through education, research, and support.

History

The Stuttering Foundation of America was established in 1947 by Malcolm Fraser, who experienced stuttering firsthand. Fraser's personal struggles and triumphs over stuttering inspired him to create a resource that would offer hope and assistance to others facing similar challenges. The foundation started with the goal of providing free or low-cost educational materials and support to individuals who stutter, their families, and the professionals who work with them.

Mission and Activities

The foundation's mission encompasses several key activities:

• Education: Providing up-to-date information about stuttering to individuals who stutter, their families, and professionals. This includes publishing books, brochures, and newsletters, as well as hosting workshops and conferences.
• Research: Funding research into the causes, treatment, and effective management of stuttering. The foundation supports both established and emerging researchers in the field.
• Support: Offering support through a referral service for speech therapists specialized in stuttering, online resources, and support groups.
• Advocacy: Raising awareness about stuttering and advocating for the rights and needs of individuals who stutter.

Resources and Programs

The Stuttering Foundation of America provides a wide range of resources and programs designed to educate and support. These include:

• Educational materials such as books, videos, and online articles.
• A referral list of speech-language pathologists who specialize in stuttering.
• Online courses and webinars for both professionals and those affected by stuttering.
• Support groups and summer camps for children and teenagers who stutter.
• Public awareness campaigns to increase understanding and acceptance of stuttering.

Impact

Over the years, the Stuttering Foundation of America has made significant contributions to the field of stuttering. It has helped to destigmatize stuttering, provided valuable resources for countless individuals and families, and supported research that has advanced the understanding of stuttering. The foundation's work has not only improved the lives of people who stutter but has also enriched the professional community's approach to treatment and support.

See Also

• Speech therapy
• Communication disorder
• List of non-profit organizations