New classes will be available at the ACC starting in January. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC Group Chat) is making a return. In addition, the Aphasia Community Center will now offer an Art Class and a Conversation Group. Read on to learn about these new classes and how to become a member. Stay tuned to learn about more class additions in 2024.
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AAC Group Chat (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
AAC Group Chat focuses on communication using AAC devices. Meet other people with Aphasia who use a device to communicate. Appropriate for all types of devices used to communicate.
Organizer: Becky Reese
In-person
Cost: Free
Appropriate for people with Aphasia who use or are exploring a communication device.
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Art Class
People with Aphasia can explore and enjoy creating art projects in Art Class, including drawing, painting, clay, collage, design, and more. The class will enhance communication, socialization, and creative skills for people with Aphasia. The class is led by an Art Instructor.
Organizer: Montessa Lizaso
In-person
Cost: Free
Appropriate for all levels of Aphasia.
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Conversation Group
Conversation Group promotes casual discussions related to specific themes or topics. The class will enhance communication and socialization for people with Aphasia. The class is led by a Speech-Language Pathologist.
Organizer: Bekah Cloud, CCC-SLP
In-person
Cost: Free
Appropriate for all levels of Aphasia.
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Writing Group
The Writing Group focuses on spelling and using words, phrases, and sentences related to a theme. The class is led by a Speech-Language Pathologist.
Organizer: Elyse Gordon, CCC-SLP
In-person
Cost: Free
Appropriate for all levels of Aphasia.
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Eligibility for membership in the Aphasia Community Center sessions:
- Must be an adult with Aphasia after a stroke.
- Typically have chronic Aphasia (greater than 6 months after aphasia onset).
- Must be medically stable to participate in a community-based program.
- Are independent in the activities of daily living or accompanied by a care provider who is responsible for providing assistance.
- Cognitively and physically able to participate in group programs for a full hour or more.
- Can safely and actively participate at the ACC.
- May range in aphasia severity from very minimal to severe.
If you meet these requirements and want to consider membership, you can complete an application form HERE. After the Aphasia Community Center receives your application form, there will be an in-person interview.
Persons with primary progressive Aphasia or those with co-existing dementia are typically not eligible for membership. Still, they are encouraged to participate in the Suncoast Aphasia Support Group and social activities and events offered in our aphasia community.
How Members Register for Classes and Events
As a member, you will receive a weekly email that lists and allows registration for the upcoming group classes and events. This weekly email will enable you to register for a class or event in two ways.
- RSVP Here button: Enter brief information to make your reservation by clicking this button.
- Contact the Organizer link: Each listing has a link to the Organizer’s email address. The Organizer can take your reservation and answer any questions you have.
In addition, you can visit the Aphasia Community Center Calendar to register.
We appreciate your registration because we know to watch for you and plan for the appropriate support, supplies, and/or food.
