Join the Orange County, CA - Teen stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Orange County, CA - Teens TEENS IN-PERSON MEETINGS, VIRTUAL MEETINGS SOUTHWEST REGION Official NSA Chapter - California State Welcome to the NSA Orange County Teen 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, Virtual Meetings What age group can attend? Teens 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? Location may vary around the Orange County area. When? Quarterly meet-ups happen on Zoom and around the Orange County area. Please contact the Chapter Leaders for information! Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Vasili Hatziris & Antonio Hatziris Chapter Leaders Get in touch! NSAocteenchapter@gmail.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? 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 Tanya Banks Presenter Tanya Banks has been an active member of the NSA since 1998. She is the Chapter Leader of Detroit/Royal Oak and Regional Chapter Coordinator for the Central North region. She is also the Adult Programs Chair on the Board of Directors. She was recognized as NSA Chapter Leader of the Year in 2013. Her chapter was recognized as Chapter of the Year in 2023, and she was also recognized as Regional Chapter Coordinator of the Year in 2023. She has worked as a customer service representative for 22 years and credits finding her voice to the NSA. She is an avid angel collector, enjoys inspirational music and old comedy shows. Next

Be inspired by career success stories from people who stutter. Learn how they’ve overcome challenges and achieved their goals. Everyday people who happen to stutter and are thriving at work. People who stutter are achieving career success. They are making valuable contributions in the workplace and their employers are rewarded with having high-performing employees. The NSA is committed to sharing stories of real people who stutter in relatable jobs with organizations that value a person’s experience, skills and talents. Eric Newton Accounting Professional VIEW PROFILE Jaymie Horak Human Resources Analyst VIEW PROFILE Derek Mitchell Senior IT Service Strategy Analyst VIEW PROFILE John Moore Marketing Consultant & Keynote Speaker VIEW PROFILE Kunal Mahajan VP – Middle Market Leveraged Finance VIEW PROFILE Jonah Otis Senior Manager VIEW PROFILE Ian Mahler Receiving Manager VIEW PROFILE Catherine Moroney Scientific Software Engineer VIEW PROFILE David Alpuche Photographer/Entrepreneur VIEW PROFILE Rivky Susskind Speech Language Pathologist VIEW PROFILE Danette Fitzgerald Optical Systems Engineer VIEW PROFILE Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith Elementary School Principal VIEW PROFILE Shea Quinn Helicopter Pilot VIEW PROFILE Madeleine Maccar Magazine Editor VIEW PROFILE Nicole Osborne Paramedic VIEW PROFILE Logan Williamson Process Engineer VIEW PROFILE Kelsey Smith Interpreter VIEW PROFILE Ariel Sonn Marketing Coordinator VIEW PROFILE Hannah Dunn Sr. Elite Care Specialist VIEW PROFILE David Resnick Manager, Product Design VIEW PROFILE Dana Koprowski Center Director VIEW PROFILE Cameron Francek Technical Delivery Lead VIEW PROFILE Will Nading Infrastructure Leader - Water Design Center VIEW PROFILE Jeff Fett Marketing Director VIEW PROFILE Jonathan Lazenby Community Employment Specialist VIEW PROFILE Emily Anderson Environmental Specialist VIEW PROFILE Conor Quinn Commissioner & Restaurant Owner VIEW PROFILE Haley Aguayo Manager, Benefits & Compliance VIEW PROFILE Natalie Bragan Senior Financial Analyst VIEW PROFILE Carl Johnson Medical Unit Maintenance Tech VIEW PROFILE Steve Ernst Conference Events Specialist VIEW PROFILE Nina Zito Elementary School Teacher VIEW PROFILE Carolina Ayala Developmental Services Worker VIEW PROFILE Charles White, III Secret Service VIEW PROFILE Stacey Sabu Occupational Therapist VIEW PROFILE Justin James Chiropractor VIEW PROFILE Anna Boyd English Language Arts Teacher VIEW PROFILE Nora Sadik Water Resources Engineer VIEW PROFILE Jake Kail Field Project Manager VIEW PROFILE Landry Champlin Miss America Organization VIEW PROFILE James Hayden HLA Technologist VIEW PROFILE Lisa Barone Chief Marketing Officer VIEW PROFILE Heather Rose Corporate Security VIEW PROFILE Wladimir Lyra Assistant Professor VIEW PROFILE Leah Graham Social Worker VIEW PROFILE Lane Sanders Freelance Musician VIEW PROFILE Dr. Russell Zimmer Music Teacher, Trumpet Player/Instructor VIEW PROFILE Demetris Nichols Inspirational Speaker, Professional Basketball Player VIEW PROFILE Glenn Foster Systems Analyst VIEW PROFILE Rob Bloom Creative Director VIEW PROFILE Ben Zucker Airman VIEW PROFILE Adriana Flowers Corona Corps Care VIEW PROFILE Gareth Walkom Founder, Entrepreneur VIEW PROFILE Anthony Davis Credit Union Bank Teller VIEW PROFILE Ashley DeVitto CT and X-ray Technologist VIEW PROFILE Derek Sutor Special Education Teacher VIEW PROFILE David Haas Executive Director VIEW PROFILE Joe Bergren Marketing Director VIEW PROFILE Christopher Monello Senior Marketing Manager VIEW PROFILE Zac Rankin Tax Managing Director VIEW PROFILE David Belgard Energy Accountant VIEW PROFILE Peter Loring Owner & Doctor of Audiology VIEW PROFILE Anabel Augustin Youth Case Manager VIEW PROFILE Patrick Harvey Assistant Merchandise Manager VIEW PROFILE Ronan Miller Postdoctoral Research Assistant VIEW PROFILE Jeff Brown Postdoctoral Research Associate VIEW PROFILE Logan Hall Management Consulting VIEW PROFILE Jason Baker Professor of Music VIEW PROFILE Jonathan Pomerantz Facilities Engineer VIEW PROFILE Alexandra Russo M.S. - Speech Language Pathology VIEW PROFILE Nick Cicero Town Planner VIEW PROFILE Brittany Dahl Acute Care Nurse Practitioner VIEW PROFILE Joe McEvoy Chief Strategy Officer VIEW PROFILE Kristi Van Winkle Medical Content Writer and Proofreader VIEW PROFILE Craig Cieslik Health and History Teacher VIEW PROFILE Justin Keirans Product Manager VIEW PROFILE Madison Nichols Flow Cytometry Specialist VIEW PROFILE Trevor Bell Sr. IT Security Specialist VIEW PROFILE Wesley Freeman Cost Modeling Manufacturing Engineer VIEW PROFILE Desiree Tracie Cole Actress/Singer/Dancer VIEW PROFILE Aidan Marshall-Cort Manager & Personal Trainer VIEW PROFILE Corinne King Director of Events & Business Development VIEW PROFILE Liz Helton Lead Teacher VIEW PROFILE Heather McLeod Pilates Instructor VIEW PROFILE Brendan Mahoney Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Registered Nurse VIEW PROFILE David Lamberti Creative Director VIEW PROFILE Samuel Dunsiger Accessibility Advisor VIEW PROFILE Glenn Karwoski Managing Director and Adjunct Professor VIEW PROFILE Eamonn Hubert Musician VIEW PROFILE Kaleb Brown Front Desk Associate VIEW PROFILE John Raab Sr. Manager Flight Software & Spacecraft Simulation VIEW PROFILE Bryant Anderson Recreation Leader VIEW PROFILE Leigh Gaston Assistant Editor VIEW PROFILE Chris Heathwood Associate Professor VIEW PROFILE Owen Kaelble Content Management Assistant VIEW PROFILE Leonardo Soto Detective / Hostage Negotiator VIEW PROFILE Kazi Sarjana Safain Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant VIEW PROFILE Kylie Pell Associate Teacher VIEW PROFILE Steven Dunn Trial Lawyer VIEW PROFILE Margaret Heffernan Production Manager | Producer VIEW PROFILE Sharon Emery Senior Consultant VIEW PROFILE Tyler Clemens District Manager VIEW PROFILE Kirsten Silvey Internal Medicine / Geriatric Medicine VIEW PROFILE Kimberly Reese Candle Production VIEW PROFILE John Finn Chief Scientific Advisor (CSO) VIEW PROFILE Edward DeBrae Contact Lens Coordinator VIEW PROFILE Jon Mohr Honda Deployment Specialist / Composer VIEW PROFILE

Join the Bloomington - Adult & Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Bloomington ADULT, FAMILY CHAPTER HYBRID MEETINGS CENTRAL NORTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Indiana State Welcome to the NSA Bloomington 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? Hybrid 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? Bloomington, Indiana 47408 When? Virtual meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of each month from 7:00-8:00PM. We meet in-person periodically for special events. For details about meetings/events and for any other information, please contact the Chapter Leaders. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Julia Rademacher & Jackie Huddle Chapter Leaders Get in touch! julwood@iu.edu (812) 856-4727 - 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

Explore the history of the National Stuttering Association, from its founding in 1977 to its ongoing mission of support, education, advocacy, and community for people who stutter. Since 1977 Our History The National Stuttering Association was founded to ensure that people who stutter are never alone. Since 1977, the NSA has grown from a grassroots support effort into the largest nonprofit organization in the world dedicated to supporting people who stutter, their families, and the professionals who serve them. The milestones below reflect the organization’s growth, leadership, and commitment to community, education, advocacy, and research. 1977 The Beginning The National Stuttering Association, originally known as the National Stuttering Project (NSP), was founded in California by Bob Goldman and Michael Sugarman. Early efforts focused on community outreach, education, and advocacy, including the creation of local self-help groups for people who stutter. Today, the NSA maintains nearly 175 local support groups nationwide. 1988 National Recognition President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation establishing the third week of May as National Stuttering Awareness Week (NSAW), significantly increasing public awareness and recognition of stuttering. 2001 Bridging Research & Community The NSA hosted its first joint symposium for scientists and consumers, titled Pioneering Stuttering Research in the 21st Century. The symposium focused on building partnerships and fostering collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and people who stutter. 2017 40 Years of Impact The NSA marked 40 years of bringing hope, support, and empowerment to people who stutter. This milestone reflected decades of growth, advocacy, education, and community impact. 2020 Adaptation & Innovation 2020 was a year of global change and adaptation. The NSA launched the Generations Mentoring Program, pairing younger people who stutter with screened and vetted adult mentors. The organization hosted its first fully virtual Annual Conference, NSA@Home, welcoming more than 1,600 attendees from over 20 countries. Later that year, the NSA hosted a three-day Global Research Conference. 2023 Measuring Impact & Inclusion The NSA published its 2023 Impact Report, detailing accomplishments and measurable impact across the stuttering community. The organization also launched three new committees to strengthen inclusion and representation: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, Professional Relations Committee, and Older Adults Committee. 2025 Growth & Forward Momentum The NSA experienced a year of meaningful growth and forward momentum, expanding its nationwide chapter network to 164 active chapters and welcoming more than 24,000 engaged community members. Through conferences, regional events, and virtual programming, thousands of PWS and their families found connection, education, and belonging. We also expanded programming for underrepresented groups and significantly increased public awareness, reaching more than 7.7 million people nationwide. With strong donor support, the NSA laid the groundwork for transformational initiatives launching in 2026, including a national public service announcement campaign and the development of the NSA Educational Portals for U.S. schools. 1984 First Annual Conference The NSA hosted its first Annual Conference, bringing together people who stutter for friendship, support, information, encouragement, motivation, and new perspectives. Over time, the Annual Conference became the world’s largest gathering of people who stutter, and the Conference Awards and Hall of Fame were established to recognise individuals who have made lasting contributions to the community. 1996 National Expansion The NSA continued expanding its national reach, strengthening its chapter network and reinforcing its role as a trusted source of education, advocacy, and support for people who stutter and their families across the country. 2011 Global Awareness The debut of The King’s Speech, the award-winning film depicting King George VI as a person who stutters, brought renewed global attention to stuttering. The film’s impact helped elevate public dialogue and understanding of stuttering worldwide. 2019 New Initiatives The NSA hosted Our Stuttering: Perspectives on Disability, Diversity, and Culture, a symposium held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In the same year, the NSA launched WeStutter@Work, an initiative focused on improving employment outcomes for people who stutter by addressing workplace stigma through education and advocacy. 2022 Strategic Vision Following a community-informed, participatory strategic planning process, the NSA Board of Directors approved a new five-year strategic plan. The plan focused on expanding access to NSA services, events, and resources, increasing visibility and awareness, positioning the organization for long-term success, and reimagining NSA chapters. 2024 Invested in the Future The NSA received an anonymous $250,000 operating grant to support continued growth and future impact. This funding strengthened the organization's ability to expand programming, support research, and deepen community engagement. The Future Looking Ahead The history of the National Stuttering Association is one of persistence, leadership, and community. As the NSA moves forward, its mission remains unchanged: to support people who stutter, reduce stigma, advance understanding, and ensure that every voice is heard with dignity and respect

If you are 70½ or older, you can make a tax efficient gift directly from your IRA to the National Stuttering Association. Learn how it works and make an impact today. Matching Gifts Double your donation. Many employers match charitable gifts—check if yours does. How It Works How It Works Choose the planned giving option that aligns with your financial goals. 1 Donate Make your gift to the NSA. 2 Check Contact HR about matching. 3 Submit Complete employer's form. 4 Done Your company matches it. Check Your Eligibility Contact HR Ask your HR department about matching programs. Employee Portal Check your benefits portal for charitable giving info. Benefits Guide Review your employee handbook for details. Questions to Ask: Does our company match charitable donations? What's the matching ratio? What documentation is needed? Sample Email Template "Hi [HR Contact], I recently donated to the National Stuttering Association (501c3). Does our company offer a matching gift program? If so, how do I submit a request? Thanks!" Organization Information Share this with your employer's matching gift coordinator. Legal Name National Stuttering Association Tax ID (EIN) Address National Stuttering Association 3261 Richmond Ave, #119 Staten Island, NY 10312 94-2420533 Phone (800) 937-8888 Email info@westutter.org Status 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Common Questions How much do companies typically match? Most companies match donations dollar-for-dollar (1:1), but some offer 2:1 or 3:1 matches. Match amounts typically range from $25 to $10,000+ per employee per year. How long does it take? Most matching gifts are processed within 2-8 weeks after you submit your request. Some companies process matches quarterly. What documentation do I need? You'll need proof of your donation (receipt) and the NSA's Tax ID (EIN). We'll send you a donation receipt immediately after you give. Can retirees participate? Many companies extend matching gift benefits to retirees. Check with your former employer's HR department. Ready to Get Started? Make your gift, then check with your employer about matching. Donate Now

Join the Oklahoma State/Stillwater - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Oklahoma State/Stillwater ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Oklahoma State Welcome to the NSA Oklahoma State/Stillwater 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? 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? Oklahoma State University Social Sciences & Humanities Building Suite # 11/13 (corner of Monroe and University) When? Meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7:00PM Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? John Tetnowski Chapter Leader Get in touch! john.tetnowski@okstate.edu (405) 744-9638 - 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

Complete the volunteer screening form to support NSA programs and events. Join us in empowering the stuttering community. The NSA realizes it is important to institute certain safeguards because many activities occur away from the NSA National Office (local youth, teen and adult chapters, Youth Days, regional meetings, etc) and involve children, teens, and vulnerable adults. Therefore, it has implemented the screening process to help ensure the protection of the children, teenagers and/or vulnerable adults participating in events sponsored by the NSA. This screening form must be completed by all persons requesting to volunteer in a leadership capacity and who will be engaging in any National Stuttering Association (“NSA”) activities with or around children, teenagers, and/or vulnerable adults. This is not an employment application. The information provided in this screening form is used to help the NSA provide a safe and secure environment. NOTE: Anyone wishing to serve as a Chapter Leader MUST reach out to their Regional Chapter Coordinator (RCC) before submitting this form. Your RCC or Family Programs RCC can be found on your state page in our NSA chapter directory. Volunteer Screening Consent Form Volunteers are required to fill out the application and background criminal (not credit) check below before being approved as a Chapter Leader, Regional Chapter Coordinator, or as a volunteer for NSA events. * First name * Last name * Email * Phone * Address * Birthday Month Month Day Year * Last 4 digits of Social Security Number * Current Employer * What Volunteer Position are you applying for? * Do you currently have pending charges for any criminal offense involving minors or violence? * Have you ever been refused participation in any youth programs? If yes, please contact Executive Director to discuss. * Have you ever been convicted of, pled guilty or no contest to, placed on probation for, given community supervision for or given deferred adjudication for, any crime involving minors or violence? * Have you ever been refused an opportunity to volunteer for an organization? If yes, please contact Executive Director at tflores@westutter.org to discuss. Authorization for Background Check and Release of Claims I understand the National Stuttering Association (“NSA”) requires a general background check, including criminal history, for its leadership volunteers. I authorize, without reservation, the NSA to obtain, and any party or agency contacted by a consumer reporting agency (“CRA”) to furnish, any and all information and records relating to my background which may reflect upon my potential to volunteer for the NSA. This information may include, but is not limited to, criminal history records, information on any committed or alleged criminal acts or offenses, and/or arrests, including any act of child abuse, and sex offender registry information. I knowingly release the NSA from any and all liability arising from or relating to obtaining or using this information. The CRA is authorized to disclose all information obtained to the NSA for any lawful purpose. This authorization shall remain on file and serve as ongoing authorization for the procurement of consumer reports. I also understand and authorize any references, whether or not identified by me, to give information (including opinions) regarding my character and fitness. I knowingly release any reference contact, whether or not identified by me, from any and all liability on account of compliance with this authorization. I further knowingly release the NSA from any and all liability arising from or relating to obtaining or using this information. I am aware that background checks may be updated periodically at the sole discretion of the NSA. By signing below, I certify that I have carefully read and fully understand this legally binding release, that prior to signing, I was given an opportunity to consult with an attorney (if desired), and to ask questions, and to have those questions answered to my satisfaction, and that I executed this release voluntarily. * Yes, I consent No, I do not consent Acknowledgement of Volunteer Status and Release of Claims I acknowledge that by submitting this form, I am requesting to be considered as a volunteer only. If I am accepted as a volunteer, I understand that I am not an employee of the NSA and do not expect to be treated as an employee for any purpose, including but not limited to, compensation and/or fringe benefits. To that end, I release NSA from any liability from any claims, including claims alleging an employment relationship. I also agree to save, hold harmless and indemnify NSA from any liability resulting from such claims. * I agree. * Type Full Name NSA requires a general background check, including criminal history, for all individuals who want to volunteer. This background check may be repeated at periodic intervals at the discretion of the NSA. By signing your name you hereby consent to the National Stuttering Association running a background check. * Signature Drawing mode selected. Drawing requires a mouse or touchpad. For keyboard accessibility, select Type or Upload. SUBMIT

Learn how Jeff Fett,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Marketing Director Jeff Fett Briefly describe your daily job duties. As the Marketing Director, I oversee a department of seven marketing professionals. It’s my job to oversee the execution of all of the company’s marketing efforts including: Print Collateral, Social Media Posts, Digital and Print Ad Campaigns, Internal Communications, as well as Brand Development/Management to name a few. My first big project in my new position is to develop a new corporate website. That should launch after the first of the year. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job has been proving that I am capable. In college, I was told by a Graphic Design professor, “Please change your major. No one will ever take you seriously or hire you.” At my one-year evaluation of my first professional job I was told, “You may have noticed that we haven’t let you go out and meet the clients. That’s because we consider you to be disabled and we feel you will embarrass the clients.” After working as the Creative Director for 10 years at my previous job, I was promoted to Marketing Department Manager. Six weeks after the promotion, I was told there was going to be a “restructuring.” They wanted me to go back to being the Creative Director again and someone new was going to brought in at a higher level to oversee Marketing and other company efforts. The reason they gave me was: “We feel you don’t have the voice for the job.” So, they took away the promotion based solely on the fact that I stuttered. In April of 2013, I was hired in as the Marketing Manager at America’s Preferred Home Warranty (APHW). I was brought in to start up and build APHW’s Marketing Department. When they APHW hired a CEO a few months later, I was told he would eventually look to bring in a Chief Marketing Office (CMO) to oversee all of Marketing. His background was Fortune 500 companies, mine was small businesses. This past year he finally acted on looking for his CMO. The candidates he interviewed didn’t pan out. I was told that I wasn’t qualified for the position, so I didn’t seek it out. Following those interviews, they realized it would take two years for a CMO to become effective and in the meantime, they would also bog our processes down with a lot of questions. That opened the door for my recent promotion to Marketing Director. When the promotion offer was made, which was a total surprise, I was told they wouldn’t take “no” for an answer. I have also been told that after I go through a period of training, I will eventually become the Chief Marketing Officer. I have now achieved what many had told me could never be accomplished because I am a person who stutters. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? Yes, I did disclose my stuttering during the job interview. My stutter during the interview actually became an asset. At what I would consider to be the halfway point of most interviews, the company president stopped the interview. He said, “I’ve heard enough. I can see from the way you handle your stuttering, that you are a fighter. I sense that if you don’t know the answer to a problem, you will go to great lengths to find the solution and solve it. I’m not going to interview another person for this job, you are my person. And I promise you the stuttering will never be a problem.” To date, the promise has been kept. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. During my interviews, I have always described my stuttering as an asset. I mention that people who stutter are natural listeners. When you are interviewing a client during the development process for a marketing project, if you are doing all of the talking, you are not listening to what the client is saying. I also mention that when I block, I’m usually really fighting to say something that I feel is important. That has taught me to listen to the inflections in a client’s voice. From my stuttering behaviors, I have learned to listen for the words/phrases a client emphasizes when speaking and the words/phrases or thoughts a client repeats. These are the cues that I focus on when developing a project. I have found that they provide me the key to developing the “true flavor” that my client is seeking. What is your proudest moment at your current company? My proudest moment came two years ago. APHW, when I was hired, was housed in a small 4,400-sq. ft. building and doing business in only five states. Two years ago, we moved into a 27,000-sq. ft. building. The morning of the Grand Opening for our new corporate office, I was standing alone with the APHW President in the middle of the office. We were looking around and realizing just what we had accomplished in four short years. The new office interior is a direct reflection of the branding look and feel that I had developed for APHW. At that moment, it really hit me, I had totally rebranded a company and been successful with it. That is a graphic designer’s dream. It proved that all of those who said I couldn’t do it, were wrong. Currently we are doing business in 49 states, soon to be all 50. What are your long-term career aspirations? My long-term aspirations are to be the best CMO I can be and retire from APHW in about 10 years. What’s your best advice for people who stutter striving to achieve greater career success? My first piece of advice is to surround yourself with a good circle of close friends. My job at APHW came from a reference from the printer I worked with at my previous job. They just happened to be the main printer for APHW as well. They knew of my frustration at my previous job, with the promotion being removed. So, when the APHW President was in their shop talking about his need to have someone come in and build a Marketing Department for him, they hooked me up for interview. My second piece of advice is to always give your employer “results they can’t argue with.” That was how I overcame my CEO’s objection to my background only being in small businesses. Having the CMO candidates not pan out, made him take a closer look at the results I had achieved. That was why when the offer was made, I was told, “We won’t take ‘no’ for an answer.” Your stuttering will always create doubts and roadblocks in employer’s minds, but if you continuously achieve excellent results, that will be your key to unlocking the doors for future opportunities.

Learn how Kazi Sarjana Safain,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant Kazi Sarjana Safain Fargo, ND Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant North Dakota State University Briefly describe your daily job duties. I am an international student from Bangladesh studying for my PhD at North Dakota State University. I am currently working on maternal nutrition and epigenetic regulation of developmental programming in beef cattle. My main responsibilities include carrying out experiments, evaluating data, attending seminars, presenting, sharing my research with the scientific community, and publishing scholarly papers. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. I have been stuttering since my early childhood. It has always been challenging for me to clearly explain my ideas since I stutter. I’ve noticed that introducing myself is the most challenging task that I have to deal with in my daily life. Additionally, I stutter most when I am stressed or anxious. I’m still working on making myself relaxed in these circumstances. What are your long-term career aspirations? Making the apparently insurmountable happen is something I enjoy doing. So, after successfully completing my Ph.D., I wish to pursue a job in academia where I can teach and serve as the principal investigator of my own lab. Additionally, I’ve always wanted to work with folks who have any form of disability. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? Honestly, I have never self-disclosed my stuttering in any job hiring process. Now when I look back into the past, I feel that disclosing my stuttering would have made my life way easier. Now after enrolling in my Ph.D. program, I have started to slowly self-disclosing about my stuttering at the beginning of a meeting or in a presentation. I’ve noticed that everyone seems to be extremely understanding and supportive when I reveal it. Additionally, it relaxes and calms me down. What is your proudest moment at your current company? I consider myself to be a diligent, sincere, and goal-driven researcher. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I have been subjected to a great deal of stigma, rejection, and humiliation since I was a little child, making me feel worthless for stuttering. For the last one year, I am changing my mindset with the help of my therapist. Now, I can truly relate my life with stuttering and how stuttering has shaped my life and helped me to be a great researcher and most importantly a better person. Stuttering has made me compassionate, patient, diligent, and a person with positive vibes. In order to excel in research work and graduate studies, patience and hard work are imperative which I think I would not get this much if I were not a stutterer. Also, stuttering made me a great writer and a great listener. Till now, I have written a number of scientific papers and published them. All these aspects make me proud of myself. I used to believe that stuttering is my greatest weakness, but now I feel it’s my strength. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Stuttering does not, first and foremost, define who you are. A broken speech might be pleasant if it is full of positivity, but I’ve met people with fluent speaking whose speech is full of negativity, arrogance, conceit, and other negative traits. I would advise everyone to believe in themselves and concentrate on their careers since stuttering is not and will never be a hindrance. Anything in the world is possible with effort, tenacity, and passion. Instead, stuttering would make you stronger because there are no obstacles when the aim is adequately clear. Each of us goes through obstacles and stutters in life that we feel keep us from achieving greater success. Overall, remembering that beauty and power come from conquering challenges and sharing your struggles with others is the main goal.

< Back Previous Krystle Norsworthy Presenter Krystle Norsworthy is a Medical Laboratory Scientist specializing in Transfusion Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. After obtaining her bachelor's degree in 2024, she enrolled in a graduate certificate program in transfusion medicine to deepen her expertise and grow into a leadership role in her field. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors and staying active. Next

< Back Supporter Spotlight: Ariel Sonn – From Silence to Strength When Ariel Sonn first joined the National Stuttering Association in 2017, it was during a pivotal season: her final year of college. After years of avoiding conversations about stuttering, she reached a place of acceptance — and longed to connect with others who stuttered too. Her first NSA conference was in Chicago in 2018, and it sealed the deal: Ariel was hooked. They found a community full of pride, honesty, and joy — and it changed everything. “I heard about the NSA from Vivian Sisskin. When I finally got to a place of acceptance in my stuttering journey, I decided that I wanted to meet more people with whom I could form close connections. For the longest time, I hated talking about stuttering. I couldn't even watch someone on TV stutter because it made me feel so ashamed. But then I realized the beauty and happiness of immersing yourself in a community of people who stutter and have no shame.” What followed was a complete transformation in Ariel’s relationship with stuttering. What once caused shame and silence now became a powerful part of her identity — one they proudly share. “I have moments of struggle almost every day, but the hold those moments have on me is nearly diminished.” These days, Ariel is the person her friends and family turn to for education and insight on stuttering. They’ve helped shape more inclusive, empathetic conversations — and they’re proud of it. My friends and family all support me and have shared moments where they have learned how to be better allies to other people who stutter that they've encountered in their lives. Those moments make me so proud.” Ariel’s advice to new NSA members? “Embrace everything. Have an open mind and open arms.” Get to know Ariel: Favorite ice cream: Cookies and cream Nature pick: Beach Favorite show: Gossip Girl Karaoke jam: Pink Pony Club Pets: None (yet!) Tattoo: A sparrow on her wrist to represent Jack Sparrow and the spirit of adventure 🇮🇹 Dream trip: Italy’s coastline From hiding her stutter to celebrating it as a gift, Ariel has become a beacon for others on their journeys. And through it all, the NSA community is better for having them in it. Ariel — thank you for your light, your voice, and your fierce support! Previous Next