#USA #Memphis #Stuttering Foundation #Jane Fraser #ISAD

A Supportive Community for Those Who Stutter

On October 22, the world recognizes International Stuttering Awareness Day (ISAD), a day dedicated to raising awareness and understanding about stuttering, which affects approximately one percent of the global population. This translates to around 80 million individuals worldwide, with over three million Americans among them. Since the establishment of the Stuttering Foundation in 1947, its mission has remained consistent: to provide credible information, support, and resources for people who stutter and their families.

Jane Fraser, the President of the Stuttering Foundation, emphasized the organization’s commitment to inclusivity in its approach to helping those in need. “We offer a 'Big Tent' where anyone seeking information and assistance can find a fitting solution,” she noted, indicating the Foundation's recognition that there is no universal treatment that works for everyone who stutters. The Foundation draws from the pioneering work of speech professionals like Charles Van Riper and Joseph Sheehan, while also integrating contemporary methods from leading experts in the field.

The Foundation’s history is marked by pivotal moments, including its first conference in 1957, which gathered notable speech pathologists, psychologists, and other experts to discuss stuttering. This event was a crucial milestone as it fostered discussions aimed at establishing comprehensive treatment guidelines for stuttering. Out of this collaborative effort emerged the book On Stuttering: Its Treatment, which became a significant resource in the field.

Over the years, the Stuttering Foundation has continued to host such events, leading to significant advancements in understanding stuttering treatments. Each week-long conference allows professionals to exchange ideas, leading to agreement on effective therapy techniques.

The impact of the Foundation is not localized. Their books and materials have been translated into over 45 languages, reaching more than 20 million people globally. As Fraser put it, “The conversation about the best treatment methods is ongoing, and while there may be debates, we appreciate that stuttering is unique to each individual.” Each person who stutters has distinct goals and experiences, which shapes their treatment needs.

For over 75 years, the Stuttering Foundation has earned a reputation as the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and improving the treatment of stuttering. Each year, the Foundation assists over a million individuals across 168 countries, providing essential resources and fostering a supportive community.

The Foundation was founded by Malcolm Fraser, a successful businessman who personally faced challenges with stuttering. His commitment laid the groundwork for a resource-rich environment for both individuals who stutter and their families. They can access a variety of free resources at StutteringHelp.org, which is geared towards education and support, as well as promoting research into the causes of stuttering.

With continued dedication to outreach and innovation, the Stuttering Foundation exemplifies the importance of understanding and addressing stuttering in an empathetic and informed manner, creating a space where individuals can receive the understanding and support they deserve. Through their efforts, they not only raise awareness but also empower those who stutter to pursue their personal goals, free from the constraints of their speech challenges.