American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation

Support Innovators. Spark Innovation.

Leaving More Than Memories: Why I Chose Legacy Giving

Our Work

Our ability to communicate and connect with each other is key to our success and happiness. The ASHFoundation supports innovators and sparks innovation in communication sciences to make that connection possible for everyone. Join us!

We make early investments in promising innovators

...to empower speech, language, and hearing professionals

...to change people's lives.

Learn more about our work

Millions of people are struggling to communicate and connect, but we’re here to help.

"How can a computer best give someone a voice?"

This question has inspired much of John McCarthy’s research career, including his ASHFoundation-funded investigation into the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) by people with speech and language disorders who also have other disabilities. Common AAC systems—which typically incorporate some type of visual component—are often unusable for people who have visual impairments.

That research has led to McCarthy’s work on programs, devices, and opportunities for people with communication disorders who have visual and motor impairments—making communication possible for everyone.

Your Donation Sparks Bold, Forward-thinking Solutions

58,000

DONORS AND GROWING

MORE
THAN

2,700

researchers, students, & clinical professionals funded

$

14.3

MILLION AWARDED

OVER

90

PERCENT

of our funded researchers go on to receive additional external funding

Events and Deadlines

Countdown to the 2024 ASHFoundation Donor Deadline
12/31/2024

Time is ticking! The deadline to contribute to the ASHFoundation Annual Giving Campaign is December 31, 2024. Your donations fuel the future of communication sciences and disorders, supporting critical initiatives like:

Empowering tomorrow’s leaders: Scholarships for top students in the field.
Advancing groundbreaking research: Funding early-stage projects that improve services for millions with communication disorders.
Celebrating clinical excellence: Recognizing innovative achievements through special awards.

Every contribution to the General Fund keeps the ASHFoundation’s core programs thriving. These vital awards and recognitions depend on your generosity. Let’s make an impact together—be a part of this year’s transformative campaign!

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What's New

2024 ASHFoundation Awards and Honorees

The ASHFoundation awarded $705,000 to 88 researchers, students and clinicians in communication sciences and disorders. Meet the newest awardees.

Poolside Chat 3 Now Available

Have you been wondering about the implications of using artificial intelligence (AI) in CSD assessments and treatments? Are you curious about how other clinicians and researchers are applying AI technology? View this recording of an open discussion about the role of AI in communication sciences and disorders from the August 23 Poolside Chat 3.

ASHFoundation and ASHA: Two Branches; Same Tree

The ASHFoundation and ASHA collaborate to advance the speech-language-hearing profession through distinct yet complementary roles in support and innovation.

Poolside Chat 1 Now Available

The recording of the June 27 ASHFoundation Poolside Chat 1 is now available. The topic was the New Century Scholar, 2.0. The program has been supporting students and researchers since 2003. As we look to the future, past recipients shared insights and recommendations for possible program enhancements.

Poolside Chat 2 Now Available

Have you ever received reviewer comments and not known what to do next; how best to interpret and apply to the development of future proposals? View this recording of past ASHFoundation reviewers from July 22 Poolside Chat 2 who provided guidance and clarity surrounding the research grant review process, including how to interpret reviewer critiques, and apply feedback to improve subsequent proposals. This valuable recorded conversation will benefit first-time and returning applicants alike.