Search Results

Looking for stuttering support? Use the NSA Chapter Locator to connect with local groups, meet others who stutter, and find community. Congratulations! You’ve taken the incredible first step on your journey by connecting with your local NSA Chapter. The backbone of the NSA, our local chapters are powerful spaces where you can connect directly with your local stuttering community. No matter what point you’re at in your stuttering journey, experience the life-changing power of attending a local chapter where you can share your story, bond with fellow people who stutter and allies, and embrace the support of our ever-growing community. Chapter Locator Map Use the Chapter Locator map below to find the chapter closest to you. Search by your address, zipcode, or Type of Chapter Meeting.

The NSA provides support, resources, and advocacy for people who stutter. Discover connection and community across the nation. If You Stutter, You Are Not Alone 79 Million People Stutter Worldwide The National Stuttering Association believes in a more accepting and understanding world for people who stutter. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY How We Help We’re here for every part of the journey. From Local Chapters to national events, we create spaces where people who stutter feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are. We also raise awareness, educate the public, and help fuel scientific research to shape a better future for our community. LEARN MORE Who We Help We support people who stutter, their families, SLPs, students, educators, and employers, offering resources, support groups, and educational tools. PEOPLE WHO STUTTER FAMILIES SLPs STUDENTS Support The NSA Support isn't one-size-fits-all. Whether you care most about kids finding their voice or adults reclaiming theirs, there's a way to give that feels just right for you. Pick your passion. Fuel the mission. MAKE A DIFFERENCE Find Your People You were never meant to figure this out alone. Our support groups are where life-changing connections happen and stuttering feels a little less heavy. GET CONNECTED MEET THE TEAM Latest Resources Upcoming Events Multiple Dates Parents and Caregivers Virtual Chapter Meeting Thu, Nov 06 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Philadelphia 1-Day Conference Sat, Nov 08 Children's Hospital of Philadelphia MORE INFO BUY TICKETS Multiple Dates Sisters Who Stutter Sun, Nov 09 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Connects Shaping Speech Therapy Journeys: Age, Experience, & Identity Wed, Nov 12 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Connects with Stuttering & Addiction Recovery Thu, Nov 13 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Connects with Board Games Sun, Nov 16 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Connects: Asians Who Stutter Mon, Nov 17 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Connects Bil Arabi: Discovering Our Voice Tue, Nov 18 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Young Adult Connects | Finding Your Voice During the Holidays Tue, Nov 18 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Women Connect Thu, Nov 20 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Load More Featured Videos to Inspire and Educate Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Load More

Looking for a speech therapist who understands stuttering? The National Stuttering Association offers guidance, referral links, and questions to ask before starting therapy so you can find the right Speech-Language Pathologist for your needs. Your Guide to Finding the Right Speech Language Pathologist Speech therapy can play a life-changing role in helping people who stutter build confidence and communicate with ease. Choosing the right Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) is a personal decision that depends on trust, understanding, and experience. There is no single “best” method for treating stuttering. Different approaches work for different people, and no therapy can guarantee permanent fluency. The goal is to find a clinician who values your voice and partners with you to create a plan that meets your unique goals. What Makes Speech Therapy Successful Research shows that the most effective therapy happens when: The clinician has specific training and experience working with people who stutter. The clinician and client build a strong “therapeutic alliance, ” where mutual trust and communication support progress. Before starting therapy, consider meeting with potential SLPs to learn about their methods and philosophy. This conversation is an opportunity to see whether you feel heard , supported , and respected . Questions to Ask a Potential SLP Asking thoughtful questions can help you find a therapist who understands your goals and respects your journey. Below are examples to help you begin. How do you view stuttering — as something to fix or as a way of speaking that can be supported? Red Flag Response: “My goal is to help you speak fluently all the time.” What does a stuttering therapy session typically look like? Red Flag Response: “We’ll practice until you get rid of your stuttering.” How do you help clients balance fluency strategies with stuttering acceptance? Red Flag Response: “I’ll teach you techniques to hide your stuttering.” What resources or communities do you recommend for people who stutter? Red Flag Response: “I don’t really know of any stuttering communities.” How do you handle moments when a client stutters openly in therapy? Red Flag Response: “I’ll stop you and remind you to use a fluency technique.” For more context about therapy approaches, visit the Stuttering Treatment Options page to understand fluency shaping, stuttering modification, and stutter-affirming therapy. Speech-Language Pathologist Referral List Specialty Board on Fluency Disorders www.StutteringSpecialists.org The Specialty Board on Fluency Disorders maintains a directory of SLPs who have advanced training in stuttering and meet peer-reviewed standards as board-recognized specialists. Their website also includes guidance on choosing an SLP and questions to ask to help you select the right therapist. Spero Stuttering “Ally of Stuttering” Certified Clinicians www.SperoStuttering.org Spero Stuttering’s Ally of Stuttering certification program recognizes SLPs who demonstrate a stutter-affirming approach and ongoing commitment to education and advocacy. Their referral list connects individuals with clinicians who focus on empowerment, acceptance, and evidence-based care. GlobalSpeech globalspeechaccess.org GlobalSpeech is a student-created tool that maps nearly 2,000 speech therapy centers across the U.S. and parts of North America. With easy state-by-state filters, it helps families locate speech services quickly. Created by Noel Thomas of Leland High School in San Jose, CA, GlobalSpeech was inspired by his own experience with stuttering. Please note: The NSA does not warrant the competency of individual therapists or guarantee treatment outcomes. Always contact professionals directly and ask questions before beginning therapy. Other Helpful Resources Stuttering Programs and Camps westutter.org/post/other-programs The NSA maintains a list of workshops, intensive programs, summer classes, and camps for children, teens, and adults who stutter. This list is updated regularly to help families find supportive programs nationwide. NSA Local Chapters westutter.org/join-a-chapter The NSA offers a nationwide network of Local Chapters for adults, families, teens, and kids. Meetings provide a safe, judgment-free environment for people who stutter to share their experiences and build community with others who understand. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association www.asha.org ASHA is the professional association for speech-language pathologists and audiologists. Their website includes information about certification, evidence-based practice, and insurance reimbursement for stuttering therapy. Spero Stuttering, Inc. www.sperostuttering.org Spero Stuttering empowers and advocates for the stuttering community by supporting those who work with people who stutter. Spero offers funding for SLPs to attend training and connection events such as the NSA Annual Conference. Learn more and apply at Spero Funding Opportunities. Need More Help? If you need additional assistance finding an SLP in your area, contact the, contact the NSA National Office . Our team is happy to connect you with resources and local support networks. Last Updated: October 2025 Author: National Stuttering Association Marketing & Education Team with contributions from Nicole Kulmaczewski, MS, CCC-SLP, Jacqueline Toscano, SLP.D. CCC-SLP, Caitlin Franchini, MS, CCC-SLP and Megan M. Young, ABD, CCC-SLP

Learn how teachers and school staff can support students who stutter. The National Stuttering Association shares evidence-based tips, classroom strategies, and communication guidance for educators. The Role of Educators in Supporting Students Who Stutter The National Stuttering Association (NSA) recognizes the central role that teachers and other educators play in shaping the lives of young children. Educators often reach out to the NSA with questions about how to best support children who stutter in the classroom. All children benefit when teachers understand and support them—but for children who stutter, this understanding is especially critical. Supportive educators can foster confidence, reduce anxiety, and create a classroom culture where communication differences are respected and valued. The NSA offers a wide range of resources for educators, helping teachers feel more comfortable with their understanding of stuttering and more confident in supporting students who stutter. Immediate Helpful Tips for Educators These practical suggestions can make a big difference in helping students who stutter feel safe and respected in your classroom. 1. Ask How You Can Help Always ask the person who stutters how you can be most helpful and supportive. Each student’s experience with stuttering is unique, and their preferences for support may differ. 2. Avoid Finishing Sentences Finishing a student’s sentences or supplying words—even with good intentions—can increase pressure and anxiety. Some students might find it helpful occasionally, but many do not. The best approach is to ask what helps them most. 3. Be a Good Listener Maintain comfortable eye contact and give your full attention. Avoid showing impatience, embarrassment, or alarm. Wait calmly until the student finishes speaking. Your relaxed body language communicates acceptance and patience. 4. Avoid Well-Meaning but Unhelpful Advice Phrases like “Slow down,” “Take a breath,” or “Relax” are often meant kindly, but they imply that stuttering is under voluntary control. These comments can add pressure or frustration. Remember: stuttering is a neurological communication difference, not a behavior that needs correction. 5. Focus on What the Student Says—Not How They Say It Let the child know through your actions and tone that their message matters more than their fluency. A classroom environment that values what is said over how it’s said promotes inclusion and communication confidence. Why Educator Awareness Matters Children who stutter may experience teasing, avoidance, or reduced participation in class due to fear of being misunderstood. Educators who respond with patience and understanding can help change this. By modeling respect and curiosity rather than correction, teachers help peers do the same—creating a safe learning environment that values every student’s voice. NSA Resources for Educators The National Stuttering Association provides free, research-based tools to help educators understand stuttering and promote inclusive communication practices. For classroom guides, student stories, printable tip sheets, and continuing education opportunities for teachers, counselors, and speech-language professionals. You can also connect with others through local NSA Family Chapters —supportive communities for families, educators, and children who stutter. Find your nearest chapter. Last Updated: October 2025 Author: National Stuttering Association Marketing & Education Team with contributions from Nicole Kulmaczewski, MS, CCC-SLP and Jacqueline Toscano, SLP.D. CCC-SLP.

Learn how to advocate for insurance coverage for stuttering therapy. Understand policy exclusions, how to appeal denials, and how to educate employers and insurance providers. Insurance Coverage for Stuttering Obtaining insurance coverage for stuttering treatment can be challenging for many families. Insurance reimbursement for speech and language services is often limited, and in some cases, these services are excluded entirely from benefits plans. Unfortunately, many policies include specific exclusions for stuttering due to outdated information or misunderstanding of the condition. As a result, people who stutter frequently experience claim denials or discover that stuttering treatment is not covered at all. The National Stuttering Association works to raise awareness about the importance of speech therapy coverage and encourages individuals, families, and professionals to advocate for equitable insurance benefits. How to Advocate for Coverage Advocating for appropriate insurance coverage for stuttering can take place on many levels. You can make a significant difference by taking the following steps. 1. Appeal Denied Claims If your claim for stuttering treatment is denied, appeal the decision . Most insurance companies have multiple levels of appeal. Provide documentation from your speech-language pathologist, including diagnosis codes and detailed therapy goals. Persistence can often lead to a favorable outcome. 2. Review and Discuss Your Plan Contact your employer or insurance provider to confirm whether speech therapy services are included in your coverage. If they are not, ask your employer to consider adding these benefits. Sharing educational resources about stuttering and its neurological basis can help correct misconceptions and demonstrate the need for inclusion. 3. Contact Your State Insurance Commission If your appeals are unsuccessful, reach out to your state insurance commission or local legislators. Explain why speech therapy for stuttering should be covered under general medical or communication disorder benefits. Your advocacy helps shape future policy decisions. 4. Promote Public Awareness Educating the public about stuttering helps eliminate stigma and supports long-term policy change. Share accurate information through community organizations, local media, or social platforms. Public understanding creates momentum for change in how insurance companies view stuttering treatment. Know Your Coverage Before Starting Therapy Insurance plans vary greatly in how much they cover for speech therapy services. Before beginning treatment, review your specific benefits carefully. Confirm the number of sessions covered, the need for prior authorization, and whether you are required to see an in-network provider. Understanding your policy helps prevent unexpected costs and allows you to plan effectively for therapy. If you are unsure about your benefits or need assistance, the National Stuttering Association can connect you with resources and advocacy tools to help you navigate the process. Last Updated: October 2025 Author: National Stuttering Association Marketing & Education Team with contributions from Nicole Kulmaczewski, MS, CCC-SLP and Jacqueline Toscano, SLP.D. CCC-SLP. DOWNLOAD BROCHURE

< Back Kory Tran Speaker Kory Tran (he/him) is a journalist, fiction writer, UX designer, and person who stutters in the SF Bay Area. Actually, he stutters outside the Bay Area as well. He is the co-leader of the San Jose chapter of the NSA, which he credits with helping to break the stigma of stuttering. Kory's writing has been published in major newspapers, a humorous literary journal, and this bio that you are reading right now. When he is not on his phone, Kory likes to do krav maga, Toastmasters, and improv, sometimes successfully. Previous Next

Learn how Desiree Tracie Cole,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Actress/Singer/Dancer Desiree Tracie Cole Brandon, FL Actress, Singer & Dancer Briefly describe your daily job duties. I audition for musicals, plays, television, films, commercials, and voice overs. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Feeling as though I am not getting an opportunities just because of the way I speak. What are your long-term career aspirations? I would like to become a motivational speaker for people who stutter, as well as a disability-rights advocate for people with disabilities and communication disorders. I want to motivate everyone and let them know that stuttering is a gift and you can be anything you want to be in this world! Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? Yes! I tell people I have a stutter. I like to advocate for myself. What is your proudest moment at your current company? I was cast as Jane Banks (my first lead role ever!) in New Tampa Players/The Penguin Project’s production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins JR. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I have more compassion and empathy towards others, and I believe that my stutter helps me to relate better to others that may stutter or other differing ability. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Just keep going and never give up. Don’t listen to people who are bringing you down, but rather to those who are bringing you up!

< Back Maxwell Pollack Speaker Maxwell Pollack is an 18 year old person who stutters who lives in Edmond Oklahoma. He is interested in running and working out, finding good movies and shows to watch, spending time with friends, listening to music, and occasionally playing video games. He currently works at Jimmy John’s. This is his first NSA conference. Previous Next

Join the Central Iowa Chapter stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Central Iowa ADULT & FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Iowa State Welcome to the NSA Central Iowa Chapter! The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person Meetings What age group can attend? Family & Adults What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? Altoona, IA 50009 When? Meetings are held every other month. *Contact Chapter Leader to confirm meeting dates. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Kerri Schwemm Chapter Leader Get in touch! Kschwemm@heartlandaea.org (515) 270-9030 x18187 https://www.facebook.com/groups/NSAIowa Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Our network of local chapters are powerful spaces where you can connect directly with your local stuttering community. We have both Adult Chapters and Family Chapters — there really is something for everyone! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People who stutter (of all ages), their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone with a special interest in stuttering are welcome at our chapters! Do I need to RSVP before attending? While you don’t need to RSVP before attending, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) before the meeting to let them know you’re coming. We love knowing who to look for at a meeting! Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Some of our NSA local chapters are meeting virtually - you can join them from wherever you are! On our chapter locator page, search by meeting type and look for hybrid and virtual chapters! Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for information on joining their meeting. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

Join the Rockville stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Rockville ADULT, FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL MEETINGS MID-ATLANTIC REGION Official NSA Chapter - Maryland State Welcome to the NSA Rockville Chapter! The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person & Virtual Meetings What age group can attend? Adult, Family What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? In-person meetings are held at Kensington Firehouse (10620 Connecticut Ave Kensington, MD 20895) and virtual meetings are held over Zoom. When? Meetings are held on the 1st Monday of each month* from 7:00-8:30PM. *Chapter does not meet in June, July, or August. Contact the Chapter Leaders for meeting information and the Zoom link for virtual meetings. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Elizabeth Escobar & Emily Turgeon Chapter Leaders Get in touch! EliEscobar87@gmail.com , eturgeon@ccboe.com - - Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Our network of local chapters are powerful spaces where you can connect directly with your local stuttering community. We have both Adult Chapters and Family Chapters — there really is something for everyone! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People who stutter (of all ages), their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone with a special interest in stuttering are welcome at our chapters! Do I need to RSVP before attending? While you don’t need to RSVP before attending, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) before the meeting to let them know you’re coming. We love knowing who to look for at a meeting! Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Some of our NSA local chapters are meeting virtually - you can join them from wherever you are! On our chapter locator page, search by meeting type and look for hybrid and virtual chapters! Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for information on joining their meeting. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

Learn how Jason Baker,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Professor of Music Jason Baker Briefly describe your daily job duties. I teach percussion instruments in both individual and group settings. This involves private lessons, as well as leading and directing the percussion ensemble, marching band drumline, and steel drum band. I also serve as Recruiting Coordinator for the department, where I organize events both on and off campus to attract prospective students to our program. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. My stuttering usually occurs when I’m tired or have had to speak for a long time, which can happen toward the end of a long day of teaching or an especially full week of events. My particular stutter consists more of “blocking” than typical repetition of sounds, so it can create a lot of physical tension in body in my body, as well. What are your long-term career aspirations? I just enjoy the variety of teaching, performing, publishing, composing, and service that life at the university has afforded me. Each semester brings in new students, situations, and opportunities, so there is always something I didn’t anticipate before, and that’s enough to keep me busy for a long time Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If I suspect my stuttering is going to affect my speaking during an event (interview, lecture, or presentation) I will usually work it into what I am talking about, such as stating how playing music helped me develop positive self esteem in my youth despite being a stutterer. Usually, doing this will lessen my own anxiety and my speech will be more fluent. Either way, it becomes less of an issue and people seem fine with it either way. What is your proudest moment at your current company? Witnessing the growth in our program over the years and seeing former students now working and supporting their own families as professionals has been especially meaningful. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I think stuttering has always made me a hard worker. Having to work to do something everyday that most other people take for granted has created a resiliency and work ethic that I can carry over to other challenging situations in my work. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Everyone is different in the severity and frequency their stuttering, but two thing we all have control over are the quality of work we can do at our jobs and how we treat others around us. Capitalizing on this will far outweigh any perceived shortcomings in how we speak.

Meet Elizabeth Edwards, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Elizabeth Edwards Seasoned Voices Committee Elizabeth Edwards, a member of the National Stuttering Association’s (NSA) Seasoned Voices Committee, is a passionate advocate for both the stuttering community and the aging population. A proud person who stutters, Elizabeth has been actively involved with the NSA since attending her first conference in Chicago in 2018. Her journey within the NSA reflects her commitment to fostering connections and supporting individuals across all stages of life. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Elizabeth is a dedicated public health coordinator for a state health department. During the pandemic, she earned her MA in Aging Studies and Public Health, furthering her expertise and deepening her commitment to serving the aging population. Her professional work is complemented by her active volunteer roles, where she continues to make an impact in her community. Elizabeth is also a proud alumna of the University of Iowa and a devoted Hawkeyes fan, bringing enthusiasm and team spirit to all she does. Her diverse experiences and dedication to advocacy make her a valuable member of the NSA and a champion for raising awareness about stuttering and aging issues. With her blend of professional expertise and personal passion, Elizabeth is helping to shape a more inclusive and supportive environment for people who stutter, particularly older adults. Her work is a testament to her belief in the power of community and her drive to create positive change.