This session shares the story of the Wisconsin (USA) AAC Network—an all-volunteer, grassroots organization formed to support AAC communicators, their families, and professionals across the state. Founded in 2016, the Network arose to fill a void left when decades of statewide assistive technology (AT) and AAC infrastructure were defunded. Since then, it has grown into a sustainable model of regional support, driven by collaboration, passion, and community commitment. This presentation is designed to inspire and guide participants who seek to create or strengthen similar support systems in their own regions.
We begin by providing a historical context for AT and AAC in Wisconsin. Attendees will learn how early efforts, including university-based AAC instruction, the Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative (WATI), pioneering AAC camps, and user-led programs like Authentic Voices of America, laid a strong foundation. These initiatives helped develop a culture of inclusion and advocacy that fueled the birth of the Wisconsin AAC Network and its school-focused counterpart, WATRN (Wisconsin Assistive Technology Regional Network). More recently, when adjustments were made to support from the state level, the WI AAC Network adjusted its services.
The heart of the session explores how the Wisconsin AAC Network was conceptualized and built. From securing an initial Sparks grant to gathering a diverse planning team, writing a mission statement, and setting achievable goals, the session walks attendees through each stage of the development process. We’ll outline the Network’s structure and growth over time —covering its leadership committees, communication strategies, partnerships, and public resources like the website, brochures, and newsletters. The newsletter’s popular feature, “AAC Journeys,” shares personal stories from AAC users across Wisconsin and exemplifies the human connection that drives this work.
We’ll also share how the Network collaborates with state agencies, such as the Department of Public Instruction (DPI), to align community-based and institutional efforts. Attendees will hear about current activities during the school year, including virtual town halls, quarterly trainings, and AAC chat groups.
When it was conceptualized, the goal was to reignite Wisconsin’s leadership in AAC innovation and accessibility. Over the past 10 years, the state has initiated support for educators, and the WI AAC Network has shifted its services in response.
The session concludes with a discussion on replicability. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for building grassroots AT and AAC support networks that respond to the unique needs of their own communities. Whether they are starting from scratch or building upon existing efforts, they will learn that organizing around shared purpose and leveraging volunteer energy can lead to sustainable, meaningful change.
References:
* Beukelman, D. R., & Light, J. C. (2020). Augmentative & Alternative Communication: Supporting Children and Adults with Complex Communication Needs (5th ed.). Paul H. Brookes Publishing.
* Brady, N. C., Bruce, S., Goldman, A., Erickson, K., Mineo, B., Ogletree, B. T., … & Wilcox, M. J. (2016). Communication services and supports for individuals with severe disabilities: Issues and needs. American Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 121(2), 121–138.
* Musselwhite, C., et al. Out and About: AAC in the Community. booklet available through AAC Intervention Resources
