Join local or virtual support groups for people who stutter. Connect, share experiences, and find community. Getting Started with NSA Local Chapter Support Groups The National Stuttering Association (NSA) has a robust community for people who stutter of all ages and their families through over 125 local chapters nationwide. There are four different NSA Chapter types - Adult Chapters, Family Chapters, Kids Chapters, and Teens Chapters. These local chapter meetings provide a crucial opportunity for people who stutter to connect with others who have shared similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding. There really is something for everyone! Why Join NSA Local Chapter Meetings? Local meetings are a safe space where people who stutter and their families can openly discuss the unique situations they face at work, with friends, or in various social settings. NSA members can share their attitudes towards stuttering and how stuttering shapes their life experiences. These discussions are invaluable for gaining new perspectives, finding emotional support, and building connections and lasting relationships with others who truly understand the journey of living with a stutter. The Role of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) Many Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) recognize the benefits of NSA meetings and encourage their clients to participate. Attending NSA meetings can be an essential component of long-term maintenance of treatment gains, providing ongoing support even after formal therapy has concluded. SLPs are welcome to join their clients at NSA support group meetings or attend on their own. However, it's important to note that these meetings are not a platform for clinicians to advertise their services or promote specific therapy methods. The NSA does not endorse any particular therapy approach over another. The focus is on creating a community where people who stutter and those who support them can learn from each other in a spirit of mutual support and understanding. The Spirit of Community and Support NSA Local Chapters are all about fostering a supportive environment where everyone can share, learn, and grow together. By bringing together people who stutter, their families, and professionals, these meetings help build a strong network of support and can help foster lifelong friendships. Find an NSA Chapter Near You If you're an adult who stutters, have a child or teen who stutters, or are a Speech Language Pathologist looking to support your clients, consider joining an NSA Local Chapter. These meetings can make a significant difference in the lives of those who attend, offering a unique blend of empathy, support, and shared experience. Explore our website to find an NSA Chapter near you and take the first step towards joining a vibrant community dedicated to empowerment and support. FIND YOUR LOCAL CHAPTER

Review the guidelines for participating in the NSA Teen Advisory Council. Empower teens to lead in the stuttering community. Teen Advisory Council (TAC) Guidelines, Roles, and Responsibilities TAC Guidelines Council Composition: The Teen Advisory Council (TAC) will consist of 7 to 10 members. Members are selected annually, or as positions become available, through an interview process led by the TAC Committee Chair, TAC members, and the NSA Family Programs Coordinator. Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must be at least 15 years old. Candidates must have attended at least one NSA conference. Candidates should have demonstrated leadership experience within their community, school, or other affiliations. Membership Expectations: TAC members serve at the discretion of the Executive Director and the Family Programs Coordinator. Members who do not actively fulfill their roles may be asked to resign by the Executive Director, Family Programs Coordinator, or TAC Committee Chair. Social Media Engagement: Members must join and actively participate in the various social media platforms. Regular posting and supportive engagement with peers on these platforms is required. Communication Requirements: TAC members must agree to be diligent in reading and responding to correspondence (email, text, and social media) from the Executive Director, Family Programs Coordinator, TAC Committee Chair, other TAC members, and the those in the stuttering community in a timely manner (no more than 2 business days). Failure to honor commitments may result in probation or a request for resignation. Roles and Responsibilities 1. Serve as Liaison: Act as a liaison for NSA internet groups, engaging in discussions related to TAC or teen events. 2. Social Media Activity: Remain active on relevant NSA Teen social media platforms. 3. Teen Talks Participation: Participate in and host NSA Teen Talks, providing support and guidance to peers. 4. Mentorship: Serve as mentors to NSA kids, tweens, and teens, offering support and leadership. 5. Engagement with NSA Community: Be available to the NSA and NSA Family Programs community, exemplifying leadership and mentorship. Attend all Annual Conferences during your term unless an exception is granted for good cause. 6. Role Model Conduct: Act as a role model during the Annual Conference and any NSA events, exhibiting exemplary conduct. Refrain from inappropriate language or behavior and maintain awareness of your surroundings. 7. Conference Responsibilities: Workshop Development: Each TAC member will develop at least one workshop to be presented at the conference and will submit their workshop by the deadline specified by the conference planning committee. Event Coordination: Coordinate with the Family Programs Coordinator on workshop scheduling. Social Events: TAC will lead a teen icebreaker on the first day of the conference. Participation and Support: Volunteer in at least one kids/tweens workshop each day and attend all scheduled teen workshops. Encourage participation and provide support to attendees who may be struggling to find their place. TAC Committee Chair Eligibility: The TAC Committee Chair must be between 18 and 20 years old and have served on the TAC for at least 1 year. Term and Election: The Chair is elected by TAC members and serves a 2-year term. Responsibilities: The TAC Committee Chair is responsible for overseeing the TAC and all teen functions of the NSA for and at the conference such as workshop development and presentation, and peer relations and mentoring. Additionally, they are responsible for facilitating TAC outreach initiatives throughout the year. Chain of Command > Family Programs Coordinator > TAC Committee Chair > TAC Members

Learn how Kimberly Reese,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Candle Production Kimberly Reese Briefly describe your daily job duties. I create and sell a variety of candles across the United States. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job is when people see me as just my stutter, and not as a human being. What are your long-term career aspirations? My goal is to branch out and sell my candles internationally, with the immediate goal of selling in Africa in 2024. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how did you do it and how do you currently disclose your stuttering to unsuspecting co-workers, clients and or customers? No, I do not disclose my stuttering. Stuttering is a part of me, but I don’t let it define me. What is your proudest moment at your current company? My proudest moment is more general – just that I started with nothing and turned it into something! I’ve loved candles all of my life, and so I worked hard to learn how to produce them, how to market myself, and how to sell, which I now do all over the country. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I am independent and making my own way in this world, never letting anyone disrespect me. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Command respect and show everyone that you are a hard worker.

Meet Molly Porzel, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Molly Porzel Outreach Coordinator Molly Porzel is an advocate for inclusion, empowerment, and the celebration of all voices. As the wife of a person who stutters and a mom of three kids (one of whom stutters), she brings a lived, family-centered perspective to the stuttering community. Molly works in Early Childhood Special Education and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Social Work. She enjoys creating spaces where children (and adults) can feel seen, supported, and free to be themselves. When she’s not at the Annual Conference, you’ll find her co-leading the St. Louis Family Chapter or squeezing in as many 1-Day Conferences as possible!

Meet Vicki Benson Schutter, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Vicki Benson Schutter Seasoned Voices Committee Vicki Benson Schutter has been an active member of the NSP/NSA since the Houston chapter was founded in 1985. She is a former NSA Board Member and has also been a Houston chapter leader. Vicki lives with her husband Steve and their kitty Ginger. She is retired and enjoying the quiet life after 34 years of work at Rice University. Her hobbies include taking care of Steve, subservience to her cat, wine tasting, and watching Jeopardy with Steve (which sometimes includes yelling at the TV).

< Back Previous Ariel Sonn Presenter Ariel Sonn is a person who stutters and has been involved with the National Stuttering Association since 2015. Ariel’s stuttering journey has taken her from an angsty, incredulous kid to an outspoken and fierce advocate for the stuttering community. She is particularly passionate about helping people who stutter find and build confidence in the workplace. Ariel is the author of a stuttering and lifestyle blog and a member of the WeStutter@Work committee. Outside of the NSA, Ariel is a Creative Marketing Specialist and enjoys running, yoga, traveling, and makeup. Next

< Back Previous Sarah Onofri Presenter Sarah Onofri has been involved in the National Stuttering Association (NSA) since 2006. She is the NSA Family Programs Coordinator and is a co-leader of both the NSA Boston Adult Chapter and Family Chapter. She teaches English as a Second Language at an elementary school. Next

< Back Elizabeth Minton’s Journey from Feeling Lost to Leading with Purpose When Elizabeth Minton developed an acquired stutter five years ago, she didn’t know where to turn. She felt isolated and uncertain—until she found the National Stuttering Association. “The NSA gave me a whole new community of amazing people and helped inspire me to become an SLP.” Now, four years into her involvement with the NSA, Elizabeth uses her experience to help others navigate their journeys. The NSA’s impact on Elizabeth has been both personal and professional. It opened doors, built friendships, and gave her the courage to chase a new dream: becoming an SLP. Elizabeth encourages new members to lean in with openness: “Be open to new friendships and new things.” And that spirit of courage has always been part of who she is. She was the first woman on her undergraduate university’s Ultimate Frisbee team—breaking barriers before she even knew she’d be helping others do the same in the stuttering world. Let’s get to know Elizabeth a little better: Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate Birthday Cake Favorite movie to rewatch: The Emperor’s New Groove Karaoke go-to: Anything by Panic! At The Disco Tea lover: especially a good cup of English Breakfast Dream vacation: Italy We’re grateful for Elizabeth’s leadership, passion, and vulnerability. No matter how your journey with stuttering begins, there is always a place for you here—and a way to turn your story into strength. Previous Next

Meet Chadwick Hedgepeth, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Chadwick Hedgepeth Young Adults Committee CJ currently lives in Virginia and is a recent graduate from the University of Virginia’s Speech Pathology Program. CJ became interested in the field of Speech Pathology through his history receiving Speech services himself for his stutter. CJ is currently a Speech Pathologist working in a Virginia School System in addition to an outpatient clinic. His special interests in the field include Stuttering and AAC. He is passionate about helping other people who stutter find confidence in speaking even if it’s with having a stutter. Alongside being a Young Adults Committee member, CJ also co-runs the Charlottesville Virginia NSA Chapter and has presented on Stuttering and Stuttering best practices related to treatment and evaluation at conferences and seminars. Some of CJ’s hobbies include painting, reading, and playing music.

Review the NSA’s Conflict of Interest Statement to understand our commitment to ethical practices and transparency. Conflict of Interest Statement 1. No employee, officer, director, agent (“Chapter Leader, Regional Chapter Coordinator”) shall perform services for a competitor organization, if this could result in a conflict of interest. Every employee, officer, director, agent who wishes to perform services for a competitor organization shall disclose this information to the Adult Program Co-Chairs (or in the case of a director, to the board), including the name of the organization, the services to be performed, and the estimated time necessary for performance. Written permission must be obtained from the National Stuttering Association before the services can be performed. If the National Stuttering Association (“NSA”), in its sole and absolute discretion, determines that there is a potential conflict of interest, permission may be denied. The employee, officer, director, or agent understands that the National Stuttering Association is under no obligation to approve the performance of the services, and that the National Stuttering Association may arbitrarily and in its sole discretion, deny permission to the employee, officer, director, or agent. 2. Employees, officers, directors, and agents may consult with outside organizations as long as no conflict of interest exists. The Board of Directors shall have the final say as to what constitutes a conflict of interest. 3. No employee, officer, director, or agent shall participate in the selection, award or administration of a contract, where, to their knowledge, the employee’s, officer’s, director’s, chapter leader’s, agent’s, or regional chapter coordinator’s immediate family or partner has a financial interest. The financial interest must be fully disclosed to the board prior to commencement of the selection process. 4. No employee, officer, director, or agent shall participate in the selection, award or administration of a contract, where, to their knowledge, the employee, officer, director, agent, chapter leader or regional chapter coordinator, or their immediate family or partner is negotiating for or has any arrangement concerning prospective employment without full disclosure to the Board. 5. No officer, employee, director, or agent, shall solicit or accept personal gratuities, favors or anything of substantial monetary value from contractors or potential contractors. 6. No individual shall be employed by the National Stuttering Association in a position over which a member of their immediate family exercises supervisory authority. 7. No individual may perform services for which they receive compensation from the National Stuttering Association, while a member of their immediate family serves on the Board of Directors. Exceptions can be made at the request of the Executive Director by approval of the Board. 8. No current member of the Board of Directors shall be eligible for employment with the National Stuttering Association or in any program operated by the National Stuttering Association. Immediate family as used above shall include: husband, wife, domestic partner, mother, father, sister, brother, son, daughter, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, and brother-in-law. Definition of agent: An agent, in legal terminology, is a person who has been legally empowered to act on behalf of another person or an entity (NSA). The agent may be given decision-making authority.

Join the Riverside - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Riverside - Family FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS SOUTHWEST REGION Official NSA Chapter - California State Welcome to the NSA Riverside 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? Cal Baptist University Health Science Campus – Room #A7 3532 Monroe Street Riverside, CA 92504 When? Meetings are held from 5:00-6:30PM on the 3rd Sunday of the following months: September, November, January, March, May, July. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Cynthia Sandoval & Johanna Pulliam Chapter Leaders Get in touch! nsariversidefam@gmail.com (951) 347-1691 - 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? 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 of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. 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

< Back Previous Lexi Hewitt Presenter Lexi Hewitt is a certified K-12 school counselor and has a National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certification. She has been a member of the National Stuttering Association (NSA) since 2019 and volunteers as the Chapter Leader for the NSA Southeastern Pennsylvania Family Chapter, which she started in 2023. She is also the NSA Regional Chapter Coordinator for the Southwest region. She loves singing along to Taylor Swift, nerding out about TV shows, and being a person who stutters. Next