Join the Southeastern PA - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Southeastern PA Family Chapter FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS MID-ATLANTIC REGION Official NSA Chapter - Pennsylvania State Welcome to the NSA Southeastern PA Family 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 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? Chester County Library (2nd Floor – Burke Meeting Room) 450 Exton Square Parkway Exton, Pennsylvania 19341 When? Meetings are held on the last Monday of each month from 6:00-7:00 PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Lexi Hewitt Chapter Leader Get in touch! nsasepa@gmail.com - https://forms.gle/gbSE7W29tTbdAuKH7 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? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? How can I find a local NSA chapter? What happens at an NSA meeting? Who attends an NSA Chapter? Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Don’t see an answer to your question? How do I start a local NSA chapter? How do I start a local NSA chapter? 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

Find support and community near you. Use the NSA Chapter Locator to connect with local stuttering support groups and people who understand. Our Chapters Our network of 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. Find Your Chapter Use our interactive map or search by location to browse our extensive network of vibrant chapters across the United States. Find a Chapter What Are NSA Chapters? Learn all about our chapters, what they can do for you, and how to get involved. Learn More Chapter Leader Toolkit NSA Chapter leaders can explore various resources and materials for their chapters. View Toolkit chapter map 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. what are NSA Chapters Types of NSA Chapters Adult Chapters Adult Chapters are open to adults who stutter, their families, allies, SLPs, and community members. Meetings focus on shared experiences, discussion topics led by Chapter Leaders, and peer support in a respectful, judgment-free space. Family Chapters Family Chapters support children and teens who stutter (ages 7–17) and their families. These chapters create opportunities for young people to connect with peers who stutter while participating in engaging, age-appropriate activities. Parents or caregivers are encouraged to participate and are required to remain with their children. New Family Chapters are forming regularly, so if you don’t see one near you, check back often. Interested in Starting or Leading a Chapter? Starting or leading an NSA chapter is often easier than expected, and you won’t do it alone. Our team provides guidance, tools, and ongoing support throughout the process. Adult Chapters: Contact Tanya Banks Family Chapters: Contact Sarah Onofri Frequently Asked Questions Have questions about meeting schedules, who can attend, or how to get involved? Visit our FAQ section for quick answers and helpful guidance on making the most of your NSA chapter experience. View FAQs

Join the Stevens Point - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Stevens Point ADULT CHAPTER VIRTUAL MEETINGS CENTRAL NORTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Wisconsin State Welcome to the NSA Stevens Point 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? Virtual Meetings What age group can attend? Adult 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? Stevens Point, WI 54481 When? Virtual meetings are held on the 1st Thursday of each month from 6:00PM – 7:00PM. Please contact the Chapter Leader for the meeting link. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Megan Arney Chapter Leader Get in touch! marney@uwsp.edu - - 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? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? How can I find a local NSA chapter? What happens at an NSA meeting? Who attends an NSA Chapter? Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Don’t see an answer to your question? How do I start a local NSA chapter? How do I start a local NSA chapter? 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

co-authored by Andrea Burcham, MS, CCC-SLP IEP vs. 504: Key Differences Explained IEP 504 Plan Legal basis IDEA Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Eligibility Documented disability that affects educational performance Disability that substantially limits a major life activity (including speaking) Services provided Specialized instruction + related services (e.g., speech therapy) Accommodations and modifications only—no special education services Goals required? Yes—measurable annual goals + progress monitoring No Evaluation Comprehensive evaluation by the school School-based evaluation, generally less extensive Team Parents, teachers, school specialists, sometimes the child School-based team, typically with parent input Review cycle At least annually, reevaluation every 3 years Periodic review Best fit for Children needing speech therapy or other special education services Children needing classroom accommodations but not therapy/special instruction Want the full step-by-step process for evaluations, goals, and reviews? Read our Understanding the IEP Process guide. What Is Stuttering & How Does It Impact School? Stuttering is a natural communication difference marked by involuntary repetitions, prolongations, or blocks. While it varies by child, stuttering can affect participation in discussions, oral presentations, or reading aloud—impacting academics, confidence, and social interaction. Classroom Challenges Stuttering often varies with the situation: a student may speak easily in casual conversation but stutter more during timed readings or presentations. Reactions like worry, avoidance, or frustration can matter as much as the speech itself. Rapid turn-taking and competing classroom pressures can intensify difficulty without reflecting any cognitive deficit, and children who stutter face a higher risk of social anxiety, teasing, or bullying. Academically, the biggest impact tends to come from speaking-heavy tasks—students may avoid raising hands, give shorter answers, or struggle with presentations and reading aloud. Oral grades sometimes reflect fluency rather than knowledge. Schools and SLPs can help by assessing participation (not just fluency), giving advance notice before oral tasks, offering smaller-group or prerecorded presentation options, grading on content over delivery, and building teacher/peer awareness and anti-bullying policies. When worry or avoidance is significant, school counselor collaboration alongside affirming therapy may help. What Is an IEP? An IEP is a legally binding plan under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that provides specialized instruction and services to help a child with a qualifying disability make meaningful progress in school. Key features: Requires a documented disability affecting educational performance (under IDEA) Comprehensive school evaluation Individualized special education services Measurable annual goals, accommodations, and progress monitoring Developed by a team including parents, teachers, and school specialists Stuttering may qualify as a speech-language impairment under IDEA if it affects access to curriculum or full class participation—potentially making a child eligible for speech therapy or accommodations like alternatives to oral presentations. What Is a 504 Plan? A 504 Plan falls under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which protects students with disabilities from discrimination and ensures equal access to education. Key features: Available to students whose disability substantially limits a major life activity (including speaking) Does not require special education services Focuses on accommodations and modifications for classroom access No measurable goals required Developed by a school-based team, typically with parent input For children who stutter but don't need speech therapy or special education, a 504 Plan can still provide meaningful support, like extra time for oral tasks, reduced-pressure speaking environments, or alternative ways to participate. How Eligibility Is Determined Eligibility under IDEA requires showing stuttering significantly interferes with educational performance—broadly defined as academics, communication, participation, and social-emotional impact. Even a mild stutter may qualify if it causes avoidance, anxiety, or participation barriers. Why plans vary by state and district: Some districts use quantitative thresholds (e.g., percentage of stuttered syllables), which can miss social-emotional impacts; others prioritize functional impact on engagement and communication. As a result, a child may qualify in one district but not another. Parents should understand both federal IDEA definitions and their state's criteria—and consider an educational advocate (sometimes insurance-covered) if the team isn't addressing concerns. Common Accommodations for Students Who Stutter Whether through an IEP or 504 Plan, accommodations may include: Extra time or alternatives for speaking tasks (presentations, reading aloud, oral tests) Option to respond in writing instead of speaking Choice in how and when to be called on Adjusted classroom seating Educating teachers and peers about stuttering Reduced involvement in high-pressure activities (popcorn or round-robin reading) Does My Child Qualify for an IEP or 504 Plan? Every child is different—some need intensive speech therapy, others only need classroom accommodations. To start: Document how stuttering affects your child at school Request a formal evaluation from your school district in writing Participate in the evaluation, providing input from your child's SLP After the assessment, the IEP or 504 team meets to review results and determine eligibility. Tips for Parents & Caregivers Advocating in Schools Know your rights. Request evaluations and meetings, participate, and advocate for your child's needs Keep records. Save copies of communications, evaluations, and plans Speak up early. The sooner a plan is in place, the better your child can thrive Join the community. Connect through NSA Chapters, events, and resources Plans should be reviewed regularly: IEPs at least annually, 504 Plans periodically. Final Thoughts Both IEPs and 504 Plans can be valuable tools—there's no one-size-fits-all solution. What matters most is that your child feels safe, supported, and empowered to use their voice in the classroom. Need more support? Reach out to the NSA or find an NSA Chapter at WeStutter.org.

At the 2026 Annual Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, we had the honor of recognizing five outstanding individuals and NSA Chapters whose dedication continues to make a difference in the stuttering community. Each year, we celebrate people who devote their time, expertise, and care to supporting people who stutter. Their contributions may take different forms, including mentorship, professional education, research, advocacy, public awareness, and local community building. This year’s honorees include a deeply committed volunteer, an influential professional, a longtime leader inducted into the NSA Hall of Fame, and two chapters that create supportive local communities for people who stutter and their families. We are proud to recognize their contributions and share more about the people and NSA Chapters behind the 2026 awards. Hall of Fame Award: Dr. John Tetnowski For more than 25 years, John has advanced stuttering research, educated future professionals, and supported people who stutter and their families. After more than 25 NSA Annual Conferences, nearly 100 published manuscripts, and countless lives touched, John’s place in the NSA Hall of Fame is incredibly well deserved. Professional of the Year: Jodi Reinstein Jodi has spent more than 25 years championing inclusive education and better support for students who stutter. Through her professional expertise, lived experience as a parent, and service on the NSA Professional Relations Committee, she keeps the voices of young people who stutter at the center of her work. Volunteer of the Year: Abhishek Agarwal Abhishek has served the NSA as a chapter leader, co-founder of the WeStutter@Work Mentorship Program, leader of the WeStutter@Work Committee, and co-leader of Asians Who Stutter. He gives his time and talents wholeheartedly, always looking for another way to support people who stutter. Family Chapter of the Year: St. Louis, Missouri Led by Molly Porzel, Mitch Porzel, and Christine Rose, this thriving chapter creates supportive and empowering experiences for kids and teens who stutter and their families. Its leaders also bring stuttering education into the wider St. Louis community through workshops and media appearances. Adult Chapter of the Year: Seattle, Washington Led by Andrew Chekerylla and Ashish Gupta, the Seattle Adult Chapter brings adults who stutter together through regular meetings, open mics, 5Ks, social gatherings, fundraisers, and public education. Their Stuttering Awareness Week booth at Pike Place Market is just one example of how they connect with their community. Please join us in congratulating all of our 2026 award recipients!

David Alpuche is a person who stutters (PWS) and is no stranger to the stuttering community or the National Stuttering Association (NSA). After delivering a deeply motivating storyteller speech at last year’s Annual Conference in St. Louis and recently interviewing José Ralat about his stuttering and career journey, he is now coming out with a book, 1000 Answers: What Everyone Should Know About Stuttering. This book’s roots trace back to the NSA Dallas Chapter, where he was a Chapter Leader. The Chapter frequently hosted panels for university students, where professors would send a list of 20 to 40 questions from students. However, with the panels lasting only around an hour, only 5 to 7 questions could be discussed. David says he always felt there was more they could do for the students, which sparked the idea for the book. Finding the Inspiration As David puts it, it's essentially a giant FAQ about stuttering, featuring input from people from all over the world. For him, the goal of this book was twofold: “I began to notice that students (future SLPs) asked us the same questions year after year,” says David. “One day, I began documenting them and writing brief stories about each. Once I thought I had answered all of them, I began interviewing people from around the world and asking them those questions because I knew that stuttering is a very subjective experience. “The second goal was to provide a guide for people who stutter themselves. When I was growing up, I had many questions that nobody around me knew how to answer, and having a book like this would have made me feel less alone. The stuttering community talks about ‘the journey,’ but I feel we lacked a map. So I wrote one!” Book Writing: A Journey Through Time David found that answering these questions wasn’t necessarily difficult, but the process of reflecting on his past was eye-opening. “It forced me to go back in time and put my feelings into words. Looking at memories 10-20 years later allows you to contextualize and see things more objectively, and that was very therapeutic for me.” One fascinating and heartbreaking question for him was, "What's the craziest thing you have tried to eliminate your stuttering?" David found the answers differed vastly depending on countries and cultures. When asked how long it took him to complete the book, David quoted Stephen Pressfield: "It's not the writing part that's hard. What's hard is sitting down to write.” He conceptualized the idea and started collecting the questions around 2016 but didn't start writing until 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to find creative ways to stay sane. He finished a first draft by mid-2023 and started sharing it with the stuttering community for feedback and suggestions. The final touches were made in December 2024. Fighting Stuttering Myths with Facts Despite the many myths surrounding stuttering, David believes that education and openness are the keys to breaking down misinformation. One of the greatest gifts of the stuttering community, he says, is validation. David believes his younger self would be awestruck by how many people he now knows because of his stuttering and his newfound love for public speaking. Growing up, he felt isolated, but everything changed when he discovered the NSA. He describes stuttering as “the key to the most incredible community in the world.” “I didn’t meet another person who stuttered until I was almost 30. For years, I had memories and experiences I never shared. When I started attending NSA meetings, one of the strangest yet most powerful feelings was hearing my own thoughts come from someone else’s mouth. That ‘Oh, you too?!’ moment was liberating.” David hopes the book gives readers an immersive look into the lives of people who stutter. “From the outside, it's easy to think that stuttering is just repeating sounds or having blocks, but very few people understand how having trouble speaking affects everything. From introductions to relationships, phone calls to job interviews, stuttering is always on our minds, shaping us profoundly. I want people to understand us.” After all, stuttering can be disconcerting and uncomfortable for PWS. It can lead to embarrassment, anxiety about speaking, and a fear of stuttering itself. Changing Public Perception of Stuttering When asked about the next big step in improving public understanding of stuttering, David’s answer is simple: openness. “We need more people stuttering openly in the world to see it as normal and combat the ‘I overcame my stuttering’ narrative that has been around us for decades. I want to see people who stutter on TV and in movies being great communicators. At the Annual NSA Conferences, I have met brilliant people, and I know that the fact that they stutter is the least interesting aspect of them. We need to let people hear what we have to say without fear.” His hope is that 1000 Answers provides the guidance and encouragement he wished he had growing up. “Whether you’re a person who stutters or a professional working with us, I hope this book helps you feel more knowledgeable and prepared to take on whatever challenges come your way.” Get David Alpuche's New Release Buy David’s book now on Amazon, Bookshop.org, or Barnes & Noble for $19.95 USD (excluding tax). For information and resources about stuttering, visit the NSA website at WeStutter.org.