Chapter Leader Spotlight - Bridger Jones | Missoula, Montana
Bridger Jones
Missoula, Montana Chapter Leader
In a state known for wide-open landscapes and small communities, Bridger Jones is helping ensure that people who stutter in Montana know they are not alone. In just over a year as Chapter Leader, Bridger has begun building a supportive space where people who stutter, families, and speech-language pathlogists (SLPs) can connect, learn, and support one another.
Meet the Missoula, Montana Chapter
The Missoula Chapter meets at the Missoula Public Library and also offers a virtual option using GroupMe so members can stay connected. Meetings typically bring together 1–5 attendees, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
A typical meeting begins with a check-in on how the month has been going, both personally and regarding members’ experiences with stuttering. From there, the group discusses future meeting plans and community outreach.
The NSA Chapter has even hosted workshops for families, community members, and SLPs, increasing awareness of stuttering in the region. Meetings also include time to connect, sometimes playing cards, listening to music, and enjoying each other’s company.
What inspired Bridger to become a Chapter Leader?
Bridger has lived with a stutter since learning to speak and grew up in Missoula, Montana, without access to a local support community.
“I didn’t have a community or support system for my stutter growing up,” Bridger said.
That experience inspired him to create something different for others.
He wanted to make sure that people who stutter and their families always have a place to find support, especially in a state where misconceptions about stuttering are still common. Bridger also hopes to help educate others about an important message:
“There is nothing wrong with stuttering, and it is never something that needs to be ‘fixed.’”
Remembering the first meeting
Like many new NSA Chapters, the first meeting was small. In fact, the only attendees were Bridger’s family and partner. But the first time someone new who stuttered joined the meeting always became a memorable moment.
Seeing how excited that person was to connect with another person who stutters (and how much the support meant) helped Bridger realize just how meaningful his NSA Chapter could become.
The most rewarding part of leading the NSAN Chapter
For Bridger, the most rewarding part of leadership has been creating a community in Montana and helping educate others about stuttering. Even in a smaller state with fewer resources, this NSA Chapter is helping people discover that support exists.
Moments of connection
One particularly meaningful moment came when a member who had recently moved to Montana began sharing his experiences. As the conversation unfolded, Bridger and the member realized that many of their positive and negative experiences with stuttering were strikingly similar. Recognizing those shared experiences created a powerful sense of connection.
“Knowing we weren’t alone was such a powerful feeling,” Bridger said.
Growing confidence and community
Bridger has already seen the impact the NSA Chapter can have on members.
One attendee who recently moved to Montana was initially struggling to find community. After attending meetings regularly, he has become more confident in navigating life with his stutter and has found a sense of belonging within the group.
Connecting with the wider community
The Missoula Chapter has built strong partnerships with the speech-language pathology community at the University of Montana, as well as other local clinics. These partnerships help bridge the gap between people who stutter, clinicians, and the broader community.
Members have shared that the group has helped them feel more confident about stuttering, especially in a state where the stuttering community is relatively small.
What makes the NSA Missoula Chapter unique
This NSA Chapter focuses heavily on community education, advocacy, and resource sharing. Meetings provide space to talk about both the challenges of stuttering and the everyday experiences of life. Music often plays in the background, and playing cards has become a fun tradition.
The goal is to create a space where people feel supported and understood.
Welcoming new members
When someone attends for the first time, Bridger makes sure they feel comfortable right away. Members introduce themselves, start casual conversations, and ask how the group can best support the newcomer.
Lessons learned through leadership
Leading this NSA Chapter has helped Bridger discover something important about himself.
“I’ve learned that I’m capable of anything I set my mind to,” Bridger said. “And that I’m making a difference.”
Inspiration along the way
Bridger credits his inspiration to his family, his partner, and the broader NSA support system. He also expressed gratitude to Sarah Onofri and Tammy Flores for their encouragement and support.
Looking ahead
In the coming year, Bridger hopes to continue growing the NSA Chapter and expanding its reach. Two goals he’s especially excited about include:
Hosting an NSA 1-Day Conference in Montana
Organizing an SLP workshop with the University of Montana
Life outside the NSA
Outside of leading the chapter, Bridger enjoys:
Collecting typewriters and antiques (he owns 11 typewriters)
Reading
Spending time outdoors
Being with family and his partner
Continuing his education
He also plans to become a lawyer specializing in family law.
Three words to describe the Missoula Chapter
Fun. Supportive. Engaging.