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The National AAC Peer Support Network exists to make AAC peer support easier to access for people across the country.
The National AAC Peer Support Network exists to make AAC peer support easier to access for people across the country.
These principles guide every part of our work:
These principles guide every part of our work:
Nothing about AAC users without AAC users
AAC users are leaders in this project. They make real decisions about what we do and how we do it.
Lived experience is expertise
Real-world AAC and peer support experience matters just as much as research or professional training.
We are making a difference
This national resource will help thousands of AAC users.
All communication is respected
Every communication style and system is valid. Everyone can participate in the way that works best for them.
Everyone deserves recognition and pay
People are valued for their work and compensated fairly.
Participation is personal
People choose how they want to be involved. There is no one “right” way to participate.
How is this different from the work we did before?
How is this different from the work we did before?
In the 2024–2025, the AAC Peer Support Project did these things:
In the 2024–2025, the AAC Peer Support Project did these things:
Brought together a national Consortium of about 60 AAC users, families, providers, and advocates.
Conducted the largest survey of AAC users in the U.S. about peer support needs.
Reviewed 100+ peer support models inside and outside the field of AAC.
Identified barriers and facilitators to AAC peer support and developed recommendations.
Produced a report with community-driven recommendations for a plan to expand AAC Peer Support.
Focused on doing research and making recommendations.
In 2025–2026, the National AAC Peer Support Network will do these things:
In 2025–2026, the National AAC Peer Support Network will do these things:
Establish a permanent Leadership Coalition of experts in AAC and peer support. Most members will be AAC users.
Conduct a national needs assessment with at least 200 AAC users and families, focusing on finding gaps and underserved groups.
Create tools and resources to help peer support groups start up and grow.
Build the infrastructure to expand our AAC Peer Support recommendations: a governance plan, decision-making process, and 3-year plan.
Move into implementation: test our strategies, hold training sessions, and offer technical support for peer groups.
Focus on building, sustaining, and scaling a real national network of AAC peer support.
Learn more about our previous work: The AAC Peer Support Project
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