Dear friends,

2023 has been an incredible year for Apraxia Kids. I am extremely proud of what our organization has accomplished and the vision we have created for the future. Our community has been the driving force for all that has been achieved this year and we are so grateful. Together, we are providing hope to families who are in need of our services and resources for their child with CAS.

Supporting families remains a top priority for Apraxia Kids, not only this year but for years to come. This past June, we launched our IEP Roadmap. This interactive tool provides information and resources about the IEP process enabling parents to be their child’s best advocate. Since our launch in June, over 2,000 families have used this incredible tool to help prepare for their children’s IEP meetings. As we look to 2024, we are excited to share a new resource focused on insurance as you continue to advocate for your star.

Research remains vital for Apraxia Kids to achieve its mission. This past year, we funded three projects related to CAS. We are pleased to share this update with our entire community highlighting our commitment to research and developing priorities for future research.

As we plan to celebrate our 20th National Conference in our home city of Pittsburgh July 11-13, we encourage you to save the date and share your expertise. Our Call for Papers remains open until January 10, 2024. We will be looking for presentations that cover a wide range of topics related to childhood apraxia of speech across all age ranges, diversified populations, severity, and comorbidities. More information about scholarships and registration will be shared in the new year so continue to follow our emails and social media so you can be the first to know!

Although all of our in-person Walk events have ended, you can still celebrate your Apraxia Star by registering for the Virtual Walk for Apraxia by December 31st. Each child will receive a free medal and t-shirt in the mail to celebrate their hard work this year. Fundraising remains open and there is still time to earn one of our 2023 incentives.

We also have opened registration for our Virtual 5K! No matter where you are, you can participate to help raise awareness for apraxia. All skill levels are encouraged to participate at your own pace in this fun event. Submit your times by January 31st for a chance at some exciting prizes!

This past Tuesday, we celebrated Giving Tuesday. Your generosity to our mission raised over $5,600 to fund critical programs of Apraxia Kids. We are so grateful for your support not only on Giving Tuesday but throughout the year. Your commitment, no matter the size, makes a difference as we continue to further our mission. 

On behalf of each family impacted by childhood apraxia of speech, thank you for supporting Apraxia Kids and helping every child find their voice. 

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year.

Angela Grimm
Executive Director