Join the Monmouth County - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Monmouth County ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL MEETINGS MID-ATLANTIC REGION Official NSA Chapter - New Jersey State Welcome to the Monmouth County Chapter The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person & Virtual Meetings What age group can attend? Adult What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? In-person meetings are held at Bell Works (101 Crawfords Corner Road Holmdel, NJ 07733) and virtual meetings are held over Zoom. When? Meetings are held on the 4th Thursday of each month at 7:00PM. Contact the Chapter Leader for meeting details. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Joanne Summer Chapter Leader Get in touch! JoanneSummer2@gmail.com (201) 323-2686 - 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

Meet Sarah Armstrong, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Sarah Armstrong Communications Director Sarah (she/her) has supported the NSA’s communications and public relations work since 2013, securing key media appearances for the NSA and increasing the visibility of the stuttering community. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, watching Top Chef, and spending time with her family and cats.

Learn how Demetris Nichols,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Inspirational Speaker, Professional Basketball Player Demetris Nichols Briefly describe your daily job duties. Since 2007, I’ve been playing professional basketball in the US and Internationally. I’m now turning more of my attention to being an inspirational speaker who empowers individuals, especially those who stutter or have a disability. I believe it’s my duty to remind people that our attitude will predict our now and later. I represent an idea! An idea that if we truly believe in something, we can change or create the life we want. I believe we are all mental giants. I also believe we sometimes forget how mentally strong we are. That’s why I’m here! As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part is that this stuttering bully always tries to creep back into my life. But I’m a mental giant and I will not allow that to happen. Another challenging part is talking to people that have known me for years and they expect me to stutter. Some ask, how did I overcome my speech difference and I simply tell them, “will power!” It’s a challenge to encourage people to believe every day that anything is possible for them. I’m up for the challenge to help people believe. I am living proof! Did you self-disclose your stuttering? If so, how did you do it? The last time I self-disclosed my stutter was in college. My speech therapist gave me an assignment to call random people and say, “Hi my name is Demetris Nichols, I have a stutter but I’m working on it.” I think it works because it removes the elephant in the room. I also would tell my coaches and sometime teachers in school that I stutter so they would be sensitive to it. I currently don’t have to disclose my stuttering. With hard work, training and will. I’m able to speak confidently in front of a large audience. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. Well I have a story tell. I know all about the struggles and challenges stutterers face every day. I was that kid who raised his hand to go to the bathroom just before the teacher would call on me to read out loud. I never wanted this stuttering bully to come out in class. Sports became my way to communicate because I was afraid to speak in other environments. People who stutter are a part of the 1%. I know what it’s like to be an outsider looking in. I have a valued perspective because I lived with a stutter for more than half of my live. But I also know what it takes to get over the stuttering mountain. What is your proudest moment at your current company? My proudest moments are being able to confidently speak to small groups and very large groups. For years this stuttering bully has followed me, but I made a decision to stand up to the bully. I love when people come up to me and say, “Thank you for your inspiration.” Just a few years ago, I was afraid. I had a dream to speak and now my dream has become my purpose. I believe part of my purpose is to change minds and improve lives! What are your long-term career aspirations? My aspiration is to make a difference in the world. To help bring awareness to stuttering and individuals who have disabilities. My aspiration is to change lives and give people hope though my story. I have overcome, overachieved and have turned my weakness into a strength. My hope is to help people do the same. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Look in the mirror and believe you can do anything you put your mind to. Mental giants keep trying!

Join the Hays - Adult & Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Hays ADULT & FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Kansas State Welcome to the NSA Hays 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 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? Fort Hays State University - 600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601 When? Meetings are held on the 4th Thursday of each month at 6:00 PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Ran An Chapter Leader Get in touch! r_an2@fhsu.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

< Back Previous Aidan Marshall-Cort Presenter Aidan Marshall-Cort is a Health and Wellness Professional serving as the Co-Chapter Leader of the NSA's Washington DC Chapter, and Chair of the Young Adults Committee. Alongside contributing to the community and supporting PWS in the DC area, he enjoys speaking on the relationship between stuttering, race, and neurodiversity. A passionate advocate, Aidan understands the empowering effect of vulnerability to foster open discussion amongst those who identify within these intersectionality's. In his free time, Aidan enjoys competitive weightlifting, chess, and cinema. Next

Join the Buffalo - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Buffalo ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS NORTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - New York State Welcome to the NSA Buffalo 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? University at Buffalo Audiology & Speech Language Pathology Clinic 52 Biomedical Education Building Buffalo, NY 14215 *We meet at UB South Campus at UB Audiology & Speech Language Pathology Clinic Click this link to find our correct location on Google Maps: https://tinyurl.com/nsa-buffalo-location When? Every 3rd Monday of the month 6:00pm-7:30pm Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Michele Delo & Erin Wilson Chapter Leaders Get in touch! ShelliLynn1820@gmail.com (716) 829-5530 - 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

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

< Back Previous Carl Coffey Presenter Carl Coffey, a dedicated advocate and active member of the National Stuttering Association (NSA), resides in Bowling Green, KY, with his wife Brittany and their lively household of four-legged companions. His journey with the NSA began in 2013, when he attended his first chapter meeting in Richmond, VA, his hometown. This pivotal moment marked the start of his commitment to fostering community and support for individuals who stutter. Professionally, Carl has built a strong career in program management and process improvement. His expertise lies in creating efficient systems and delivering impactful results, qualities that align with his ability to connect with and support others in meaningful ways. His background in improving processes has not only enhanced his professional life but also resonates in his contributions to the NSA and its mission. Outside of work, Carl is a passionate vinyl record collector, always on the hunt for unique finds to add to his collection. An avid pickleball player, he enjoys the camaraderie and competitiveness of the sport. Carl also has a deep appreciation for bourbon, spending time discovering new varieties and learning about the rich history of this iconic spirit. Whether in his professional endeavors, personal hobbies, or involvement with the NSA, Carl brings dedication, curiosity, and a warm sense of community to all he does. His story is a testament to the power of connection, both with people and passions, and his journey continues to inspire those around him. Next

< Back Previous Cameron Joyce Presenter Cameron Joyce is from Charlotte, North Carolina, and currently lives there with his wife, Avery, and works as a senior associate at JPMorgan. He studied economics and computer science at Wofford College and is pursuing a graduate degree in AI at UT Austin. He’s served on the National Stuttering Association’s (NSA) Young Adult Committee since 2022, leads the NSA Charlotte Chapter, and enjoys mentoring people who stutter, as well as mountain biking, beekeeping, and Formula 1. Next

Meet Ariel Sonn, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Ariel Sonn Director, Community and Engagement Ariel Sonn is the Director of Community & Engagement for the National Stuttering Association and has been part of the NSA community since 2015. A lifelong person who stutters, Ariel has grown from a hesitant young communicator into a fierce advocate for stuttering in the workplace. She previously led the WeStutter@Work Committee and continues to champion confidence, inclusion, and visibility for people who stutter at every career stage. Outside of the NSA, Ariel is a cybersecurity marketing professional and enjoys running, yoga, traveling, and spending time with her husband.

Join the LA/South Pasadena - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. LA/South Pasadena ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS SOUTHWEST REGION Official NSA Chapter - California State Welcome to the NSA LA/South Pasadena 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? 2596 Mission Street (corner of Los Robles and Mission) Suite #203 San Marino, CA 91108 When? Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Joe Bergren Chapter Leader Get in touch! josephbergren@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? 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

< Back Previous Stacey Dedering Presenter Stacey Dedering is a Human Resources professional in San Jose, California, and is the mother of 20-year-old twins and a cat named Eskie. She initially found the National Stuttering Association 15 years ago, but was working and had young kids, so it just wasn't the right time. About 3 years ago, she was looking for a connection with others who "get” stuttering and found the Women Connect group. She has attended the last two Annual Conferences. Next