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

2,600

researchers, students, & clinical professionals funded

$

13.6

MILLION AWARDED

OVER

90

PERCENT

of our funded researchers go on to receive additional external funding

Events and Deadlines

Steer Session 2024
12/5/2024

The ASHFoundation Steer Session, supported by the ASHFoundation’s endowed Max D. and Ruth Steer Fund, The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Revolutionizing the Assessment and Treatment of Communication Disorders (Part I and Part II), will be held at ASHA’s Convention in Seattle on December 5. Join us for this two-part session where we delve into the role of AI in assessments and treatments for communication disorders from a global perspective with the following presenting authors:

Part I: Fabrizio Arosio, Eleonora Beccaluva, Monica Murero, and Rita Patel

Part II: Michael Dollinger, Rita Patel, and Rupal Patel

The session will include an opportunity for panelist and audience members to discuss the perspectives of the use of AI in communication disorder assessments and treatments.

Make an Impact Today and Tomorrow: The Value of Legacy Giving at Any Age
12/6/2024

Heading to the 2024 ASHA Convention in Seattle? Join us for an insightful ASHFoundation-sponsored presentation on Friday, December 6, from 10:30-11:30 am, exploring the critical importance of estate planning across generations. This session will demystify legacy giving and showcase the unique impact of estate planning for the individual and for supported institutions. Together, we will explore the value of leaving an estate gift, the multitude of options available to donors of all ages, and what tax incentives could be available. Learn more at this session to plan for a stronger tomorrow. This event is not eligible for CEUs.

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

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.

Sharon Moss Receives M. Eugene Wiggins Leadership Award

Sharon E. Moss, PhD, CCC-SLP, CAE, Executive Director for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation has received the 2024 M. Eugene Wiggins Leadership Award, bestowed by the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing (NBASLH).