The Bridge School is invested in supporting young adults who use augmentative and alternative communication tools, in their pursuit of meaningful participation in their educational programs, their communities and individual lives. The AAC Friends and Leaders project provides these young adults with opportunities to: develop self-advocacy and self-determination skills, forge new relationships with others in their community, and create a support network that addresses their unique needs and concerns. Opportunities such as these are critical during a time when many youth are approaching the transition from school to work.

The AAC Friends and Leaders project brings together youth, ages 14-25, who share the challenge of using an augmentative communication tool as their primary means of interacting with others; to define their own needs, create their own action plans, and take charge of their futures. Three years ago, we established the first "AAC Friends and Leaders" group in the San Francisco Bay area. To date approximately 20 young adults have participated in various AAC Friends and Leader events. Our second AAC Friends and Leader Summer Retreat provided members with; self-advocacy skills training, group discussion opportunities with local leaders, and adult mentors to support their development.

If you would like to be added to the AAC Friends and Leaders mailing list and notified of upcoming AAC Friends and Leader events, email Kristen Gray or call 650-696-7295 ext. 109.