speech language pathology volunteer opportunities near me

Smarter.com

How to Get Involved: A Guide to Speech Therapy Volunteer Opportunities

Speech therapy is a critical component in helping individuals overcome communication and swallowing disorders. If you’re passionate about making a difference in people’s lives and have an interest in speech-language pathology, volunteering in this field can be incredibly fulfilling. This guide will explore various volunteer opportunities available for those looking to contribute their time and skills toward speech therapy initiatives, along with tips on how to get started.

Understanding the Role of Volunteers in Speech Therapy

Volunteers play a vital role in supporting speech therapists by providing assistance with various tasks. This may include preparing materials for therapy sessions, engaging clients during practice exercises, or even administrative support such as scheduling appointments. Volunteers can serve not only as helpers but also as motivators who encourage clients through their treatment processes. This engagement can greatly enhance the learning experience for both the volunteer and the individuals receiving therapy.

Where to Find Volunteer Opportunities

There are numerous organizations and healthcare facilities that offer volunteer programs focused on speech therapy. Local hospitals often have departments dedicated to rehabilitation services where you can inquire about available roles. Additionally, non-profit organizations focused on communication disorders frequently seek volunteers for outreach programs or fundraising events. You might also find opportunities at schools with special education programs or community centers that provide resources for individuals facing speech challenges.

Skills Required and Benefits of Volunteering

While specific qualifications may not always be necessary, having an understanding of basic communication techniques is beneficial when volunteering in speech therapy settings. Strong interpersonal skills are essential; being patient, empathetic, and communicative will help you connect effectively with clients who may be struggling with their speech or language capabilities. The benefits of volunteering extend beyond gaining experience; it allows you to network within the healthcare community while contributing positively towards social impact.

Getting Started: Steps to Volunteer

To begin your journey into volunteering for speech therapy initiatives, start by researching local organizations that align with your interests. Reach out directly via email or phone calls expressing your desire to get involved—many places welcome inquiries from passionate individuals eager to help. Be prepared to undergo training sessions which could involve shadowing professionals or attending workshops designed for volunteers. Finally, remember that consistency is key; regular commitment significantly enhances your ability to make an impact.

Volunteering in the field of speech therapy not only enriches the lives of those you assist but also provides valuable experiences that can shape your future career path if you’re considering a profession in this area. By taking initiative and actively seeking out these opportunities, you’ll contribute meaningfully while expanding your own skill set.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

MORE FROM SMARTER.COM

• Speech Pathology Master’s Programs: Which is Right for You?
• What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology?
• Speech Pathology Doctoral Programs
• Online Masters in Speech Pathology at Emerson College (sponsored program)
• Online Masters in Speech Pathology at New York University (sponsored program)
• How to Become a Speech Pathologist: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Guide to Applying to Speech Pathology School
• How to Make a Career Change to Speech Pathology
• Is a Speech Pathology Degree Worth It?
• 10 Reasons to Love Being a Speech Pathologist
• What Is a CCC-SLP and Why It’s Important
• CCC-SLP Requirements: Become a CCC-SLP
• Guide to Applying for CCC-SLP Certification
• CCC-SLP Salary and Career Outlook
• The Guide to the ASHA Speech Pathology Certification Standards
• State-by-State Guide for Speech Pathology License Requirements
• 8 SLP Certifications that May Help Advance Your Career
• How to Become an Effective ASHA Clinical Fellowship Mentor
• How to Complete the ASHA Clinical Fellowship
• The Guide to Speech Pathology Job and Salary Negotiations
• What to Expect at Your First Speech Pathologist Job
• Bilingual Speech Pathologist Salary and Careers
• Child Speech Therapist Career and Salary Outlook
• Speech Pathology Assistant Careers and Salary Outlook
• How to Choose Your Speech Pathologist Career Setting
• Become a Speech Pathologist in a School Setting
• Become a Speech Pathologist in a Hospital Work Setting
• Opening a Speech Therapy Telepractice: What You Need to Know
• Speech Pathology Internships Guide

Guide to Speech Therapy Volunteer Opportunities

• Choosing Between Speech Pathology or Occupational Therapy
• How to Become an Audiologist
• Scholarships
• Day in the Life of an SLP Student
• Speech Disorder Resources for College Students
• Common Speech Language Pathology Assessment Tools
• The SLP Guide to Evidence-Based Practice
• When to Take Your Bilingual Child to the Speech Pathologist
• When to Take Your Child to the SLP

Home / Speech Pathology Career Guide / Guide to Speech Therapy Volunteer Opportunities

The field of speech therapy has many possible work settings and job duties. If you’re interested in becoming a speech language pathologist (SLP), choosing where you want to practice can be a big decision. To narrow down your options, volunteering is a great way to gain experience and determine your preferred setting. Speech therapist volunteers contribute to the community and may gain connections with professionals. Find out more about what speech therapy volunteer opportunities are available and how to get involved.

Sponsored online speech pathology programs

Online MS: Pursue SLP Certification. Study FT/PT

Speech@Emerson enables you to earn an MS online and pursue SLP certification in as few as 20 mos. Learn the same curriculum as the on-campus program. Study FT or PT.

• Prepares you to pursue certification as an SLP generalist
• In-person clinical placements at faculty-approved partner sites
• As few as 20 months to complete

info SPONSORED

Want to Become an SLP? Earn an MS Online at NYU

NYU Steinhardt’s online master of science program in Communicative Sciences and Disorders prepares aspiring speech-language pathologists with a comprehensive professional education.

• Prepares students to pursue SLP licensure 
• Accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation 
• As few as six terms to complete 
• Full-time and part-time plans of study

Why Become a Speech Therapy Volunteer?

Other than making a difference in the community, volunteering may also allow  Master of Speech Pathology  students to gain  necessary clinical experience toward SLP certification . Whether you are in an undergraduate program or pursuing a master’s degree, if you want to become a certified SLP, you may benefit from firsthand experience in the field. 

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA),  individuals who wish to practice as an SLP are required to earn a master’s degree  in communication sciences and disorders (CSD).  Admission to speech pathology school  may be competitive depending on the school you are applying to, and volunteering may give you an edge. 

Access to professionals in the field may open opportunities for letters or recommendation, which may be required for your admission into a speech pathology program, and firsthand experience may make your application standout. As a volunteer, you may also be able to form meaningful connections and open doors for  future SLP career opportunities.  

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) occupational outlook handbook  for speech language pathologists, licensure generally requires the completion of a master’s program, supervised clinical experience and passing a licensure exam.  As SLPs are required to obtain supervised clinical experience in order to begin their practice in the United States, volunteering in the field may provide an introduction into possible supervised practice experiences.

Do You Need to be an ASHA-Certified SLP to Volunteer?

Who can become a speech therapy volunteer? For SLP students and professionals, there are plenty of opportunities for volunteering, and you do not need to be an  ASHA-certified SLP  to get involved. 

If you are looking for volunteer opportunities, check with your program or advisor on your campus. They may partner with organizations and foundations in your area to provide you with a connection to get started. Or, you may find it easier to reach out to volunteer coordinators or organizations directly. They can help you figure out any requirements, such as if a background check is required, and provide you with relevant information.

You may find that positions may not require ASHA certification, but there are some advantages to being certified. Since  clinical experience is a requirement for certification , you may be qualified for more volunteer opportunities. Being a member and volunteering for ASHA may also provide additional benefits such as networking with fellow members, developing technical skills and additional opportunities for career advancement. 

Where Can You Volunteer as a Speech Pathologist?

There are a variety of settings SLPs may find volunteer work. Depending on where your interests lie, you may find professionals or communities that you form a connection with. Some examples of  volunteer work settings for SLPs  include:

• Early intervention, preschool, and K-12 schools 
• Colleges and universities
• Residential and nonresidential healthcare facilities
• Private practice
• Corporate settings
• Local, state and federal government agencies

Requirements for each  volunteer setting for SLPs may vary state-by-state  so you will need to research your preferred setting to find out if certification, background checks or prerequisite coursework is required.

When choosing where to volunteer as an SLP, you may want to consider what areas of speech language pathology interest you, what demographics you would like to work with in the future as well as what may look good on a resume or letter of recommendation. 

Other considerations when looking for speech pathology volunteer opportunities are things like your work schedule, free time and how much of a commitment you want to make to volunteering. If you are balancing school and other commitments with volunteering, your schedule may be something you want to take into consideration. Also, even if a volunteer schedule fits your needs, consider any training or onboarding activities you will have to complete. 

Find Your Perfect SLP Work Setting Through Volunteer Work

With so many options for SLPs, it can be hard to decide where you want to work. Gaining experience in a variety of  speech pathology work settings  may set you up for your career after graduation. If you are an SLP student who is not sure if they want to practice in schools, hospitals or open a private practice, firsthand experience may lead you to your preferred path.

Much like how there are different settings for volunteering, there are a variety of settings to work as a volunteer, and you should consider where your comfort is when you choose where to both work and gain experience.

Speech pathologists  work treating patients who have language and speech disorders and may work with, among others, the following:

• People who have experienced stroke
• Head trauma patients
• Patients suffering from degenerative diseases like Parkinson’s or ALS
• Patients with cancers of the mouth or throat
• Individuals with autism 
• Individuals with Down syndrome 
• Dementia patients

They can work in hospitals, schools and private practices, and there are pros and cons to all settings. Perhaps you don’t want to work with children, ruling out schools. Or maybe working with injured individuals isn’t where you want to spend most of your time. These are things you can learn and explore as you volunteer before committing to a full work schedule. 

What Volunteer Opportunities in Speech Language Pathology are Available?

SLP volunteers have many ways to get involved in different volunteer settings. Some opportunities may be available in-person locally or be offered online—and some  SLP volunteer opportunities are available even abroad . If you are interested in getting involved, below are some common organizations and ideas for finding SLP volunteer options. 

Speech Therapy Organizations to Research

• ASHA has many volunteer options.  ASHA encourages you to get involved in the association and make an impact in the community through volunteerism. They offer opportunities to based on interests, level of effort and time commitment
• Volunteer BaseCamp  offers a compiled list of opportunities and organizations that are in need of speech pathology volunteers. The majority of their placements are geared towards SLPs who have completed their master’s programs.
• National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA)  is a student organization for speech language pathology students. They may be able to help provide volunteer opportunities in your area. 
• American Academy of Private Practice in Speech Pathology and Audiology (AAPPSPA)  is an association just for private practice speech pathologists. If you are interested in learning how private practice works, you may consider looking here. 
• There are also speech language pathology organizations in different states, such as the  California Speech Language Hearing Association (CSHA)  or the  Pennsylvania Speech Language Hearing Association (PSHA)  so check your area for local organizations. ASHA has  ASHA State-by-State  to help you explore your state’s Speech and Hearing Associations and find local contacts
• You should also inquire with Community Resource Center on your campus for local or partnered opportunities

Speech Therapy Volunteer Programs Abroad

• Therapy Abroad  is a volunteer group travel program that provides opportunities for speech language pathology students. 
• Smiles for Speech  sends SLP teams to help train, collaborate with and support children living in disadvantaged communities. 
• Yellow House  is a community-based organisation in Western Kenya that supports local communities through education and clinical services. 
• Trinh Foundation  is a voluntary nonprofit organization that promotes speech therapy in Vietnam.
• Projects Abroad  this program compiles potential SLP volunteer ventures for you. Their site states that you can “intern” there, or go as a qualified SLP. 
• Alliance for Smiles  typically wants experienced speech pathologists with cleft palate experience.
• Speech Therapy Cambodia  both brings SLPs to help treat Cambodian patients and also helps educate and train Cambodian speech pathologists, meaning they need volunteers with a variety of experience levels. 
• International Stuttering Association  aims to help people overcome stuttering in the developing world. SLPs can volunteer with this organization to help fight this cause. 
• Children’s Services International  is a charitable organization associated with the Speech Pathology Group. They offer a number of SLP opportunities abroad including in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 
• The site  Volunteer Forever  can also help speech pathology students find places to volunteer with a number of organizations in other countries. 

Other Ways to Help

If in-person volunteering is not feasible, some organizations and settings may offer opportunities to volunteer through telepractice through webcam.  ASHA offers online mentoring programs  where professional SLPs can volunteer their time to mentor aspiring speech therapists. This allows people who cannot travel to volunteer training and educating other speech language pathologists. If you find a local or distant setting or practice you’d like to volunteer with, be sure to enquire about any opportunities they may have online. 

You can also participate in online forums and help advise other SLP students. There are active communities on a number of networks of blogs as well as social media. 

Things to Consider Before Volunteering as a Speech Pathologist

Below are some suggestions, as provided by the  NSSLHA blog : 

Volunteering is a great way to gain experience, but volunteer work is exactly that— voluntary and unpaid. For some students, an unpaid volunteer position is not feasible. If this is the case, consider a paid position in a similar setting to the volunteer opportunities so you may gain similar experience in that setting, even if it’s not in the SLP field. For example, if you are interested in working in schools or with children, gain experience by working in childcare or similar jobs. 

2. Schedule 

You should take into account the level of commitment needed for the volunteer position. If you have a heavy schedule and they need you four days a week, it may not be a great fit. You should also be cognizant of when volunteers are needed, such as a school only taking volunteers during their school year. 

3. Location

The location of the volunteer setting may be inconvenient. If you live on campus and the hospital you wish to volunteer with is across town, you’ll need to ensure you have reliable transportation. Or if the program is abroad, you will need to ensure you have all travel documents and secure airfare and lodging. Travel time for unpaid volunteer work may not be ideal, but with the advent of telepractice and online opportunities you may alleviate some of the inconvenience.

4. Requirements

You should reach out to your prospective volunteer organization to find out any requirements for volunteering. Certain settings may have requirements in order to volunteer such as fingerprint cards, student status or certification. 

Information last updated November 2020

NSSLHA Blog

The official blog of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association

Find Your Perfect Setting Through Volunteer Work

One of the many highlights of being an audiologist or speech-language pathologist is the vast array of settings we can work in. But, how do you pick?

No matter what part of the CSD journey you’re in—even if you think you already know what setting you like best—now’s the perfect time to explore all of your options. And volunteering is a great way to dip your toes in the water! It allows you to explore new settings, expand your professional network, and contribute to the community.

Where Can I Volunteer?

No matter what setting you’re interested in, you can almost always find an opportunity to learn from audiologists or SLPs on staff:

• Early intervention, preschool, and K-12 schools
• Colleges and universities
• Residential and nonresidential healthcare facilities
• Private practice
• Corporate settings
• Local, state, and federal government agencies

How Do I Start? 

Volunteers are always in high demand and opportunities are in arms reach! To start, check with the Community Resource Center on your campus. They partner with organizations and foundations in your area to provide you with a vast array of opportunities to explore. Volunteer coordinators can help you figure out an organization’s expectations, if a background check is required, and answer any questions or concerns you might have.

If you’re a distance learning student—that’s okay! Links to organization are usually listed on the Community Resource Center’s website.

What Should I Consider When Researching Volunteer Opportunities? 

Think about your schedule … and the schedule of the setting you’re hoping to volunteer in. For example, schools and hospitals may require you to complete a background check, attend orientations, or volunteer during specific time commitments. Or maybe it’s the end of the school year and SLPs are trying to wrap things up. The first time I registered to volunteer at a school, it was right before they started their end-of-year standardized testing and summer break was right around the corner. I had to wait for the new school year to really get involved. 

Ultimately, it’s important for you to not to bite off more than you can chew. Volunteering is meant to be a fun and fulfilling experience—not stressful. So, plan accordingly and don’t let setbacks stop you!

But, I Already Know What Setting I Want to Work In…

Before I started volunteering, I was dead set on working in the schools setting. I loved seeing kids’ progress each day—they soak up information like sponges! I was looking forward to working one-on-one with kids who need a bit of extra help.

But then, I shadowed a clinician at a rehabilitation center. It absolutely changed my perspective. It was incredible to observe and learn from geriatric patients who suffered from strokes that impaired their speech, language, and swallowing. I got to witness their wins after pushing through the lows, speak with them as they waited for treatment, and transported them back to their room post-treatment. Watching their progress each week and having this tiny role in their progress was truly inspiring.

Expanding your horizons forces you to escape your comfort zone and try something new. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself into an unfamiliar environment, but it can open your eyes to a passion you didn’t even know existed.

I’m So Busy … Is Volunteering Really Worth It?

Making connections with professionals during your undergrad years is imperative. They’ll be able to attest to your character and perhaps write you strong letters of recommendation in the future—like when you’re applying to grad schools. Professionals love to see your enthusiasm and they want to see you succeed!

Volunteer opportunities may also open other doors … like scholarships. The local hospital system I’ll be volunteering in offers scholarships for volunteers who may later provide service to their hospital. So not only will I be gaining volunteer experience and making professional connections, there’s also a potential opportunity to tackle grad school tuition costs!

The Many Benefits of Volunteering

At the end of the day, volunteering allows you to:

• Learn from professionals first-hand
• Gain real-life experience
• Open your mind to other settings and/or populations
• Expand your professional network
• Become an integral part of your community

The impact volunteering can make on you and others is undeniable. So, get out of your comfort zone and don’t be dead set on a particular setting before you’ve really had the opportunity to experience them all!

You May Also Like

This year, i’ll …, raising our voices now to advocate for our future professions, shift happens–advocating for value-based health care, leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

45th Annual "BEYOND THE LABEL" GALA

Save the date: saturday, november 9, 2024 6-9pm.

GROWN UP! A Drama Kings & Queen's Musical Saturday, July 20th 11AM & 6PM herb Alpert Educational Village Moss Theatre New Roads School

Get involved.

Support us today by donating the The Wiley Center.

The Wiley Center is our nonprofit dedicated to creating a broad based collaborative network to provide comprehensive support and promote healthy life sustaining education, emotional, and physical outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. 

Join us in making a difference by Volunteering

“The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others.” -Deann Hollis

We’re always looking for passionate, dedicated, and enthusiastic individuals to help us continue to thrive!  We offer various volunteer opportunities tailored to your interests and skills sets. Whether you’re a Junior/Senior in high school or in college, we can use your help! 

To get involved, please fill out an application TODAY! 

Academic Info

Please list ALL high schools / colleges attended

Experience with Children in Therapeutic/ Educational Settings

Essay questions.

• TB Clearance (within 2 years)
• Current Immunizations 
• State issued Identification 
• Statement of Good Health
• Background Check and Live Scan (hour dependent)

I attest all information is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Job Opportunities

Apply below for any of the current open positions:

• Speech-Language Pathologist (Part-time & Full-Time)
• Teaching Assistant
• Early Intervention Specialist

Learn more about our Speech Pathologist Positions:

Corporate Headquarters

5761 Buckingham Parkway Culver City, CA 90230 310.649.6199

Los Angeles

4560 W. Slauson Ave. Los Angeles, CA. 90043 310.649.6199

3654 Imperial Highway Lynwood, CA 90262 310.649.6199

sherman oaks

5170 Sepulveda Blvd. #260 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 310.649.6199

15342 Hawthorne Blvd. #102 Lawndale, CA 90260 310.649.6199

Keeping you in the Loop for our Current Events and Activities

Head over to thewileycenter.org

[email protected]

626-734-6555.

• Volunteer Opportunities
• Ways to Help

HEAR Center is looking for volunteers in the following areas:

• Office work (Phone answering and other tasks)
• Audiology Assistants
• Pediatric Screening Assistants
• SLPA Observations
• Fundraising (mainly data entry, gain experience using donor software)

If you would like to volunteer a few hours of your time to HEAR Center please contact us [email protected] .

Thank you!!

Sign up for our email list.

" * " indicates required fields

Volunteer Opportunities

The number of licensed clinicians volunteering their time to expand speech and language services in countries where the field is underdeveloped has increased over recent years. A quintessential role of the overseas volunteering clinician is to not only assess and treat, but to educate and train by spreading awareness about the field and developing the skill set of local healthcare professionals to better identify and support individuals with communication and swallowing impairments. University programs are starting to be developed to train local students to become a qualified clin ician in order to provide continuous evidence-based practice within their country.

The following organizations provide volunteer opportunities for professionals:

Therapy Abroad offers volunteer opportunities for professionals in several countries around the world! The organization also provides opportunities for licensed clinicians (SLP/OT/PT) to work as a supervisor for an undergraduate or graduate student program and they will receive a stipend for their time.

Smiles for Speech provides children with special needs living in impoverished communities with the therapeutic intervention and resources they need to enhance their ability to reach their full potential. Check out ways to get involved with their great cause including volunteer trips abroad!

Speech Therapy Cambodia ‘s mission is to improve the speech, language and swallowing skills of children and adults in Cambodia and to train healthcare professionals and families in therapeutic skills and techniques. Volunteer to teach and provide services in different settings with Speech Therapy Cambodia!

The Inspiration Center — Volunteer for one of the only established clinics in Belize providing speech and occupational therapy.

Volunteer Services Organization (VSO) offers both short-term (6 months) and long-term (1-2 years) volunteer opportunities for qualified SLP/SLTs in countries of all parts of the world. Explore the opportunities online or attend a VSO event to learn more.

Requirements include:

• Short-term positions- The clinician is required to have at least 5 years of experience.
• Long-term positions- The clinician is required to have at least 2 years experience.

International Speech Project- Stuttering aims to bring services geared towards people who stutter to the developing world. Learn more about the project’s history, achievements, and future plans and learn more about volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer Base Camp  places SLP volunteers with a minimum of 2 years education around the world in countries including Ghana, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Nepal for a minimum of 1-2 weeks.

United Planet features volunteer opportunities in Ecuador.

Share this:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Speech Therapy | Volunteers

Hope speaks provides an opportunity for you to do both.

• Undergraduate Student
• Graduate Student/Recent Graduate
• Professional
• FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS YOU MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN SLP or SUPERVISING PROFESSOR IN ORDER TO SERVE WITH US.  They must travel with you to Uganda. No unaccompanied undergraduate students will be able to serve with us by themselves. (new policy from clinical committee)
• Time Commitment: minimum three weeks

Orientation & Training

• Regular Intern Work – assisting in day-to-day program needs

Community Education & Outreach

• Patient Evaluations and treatment (based on level of training and clinical experience)
• Community outreach and education
• Required training prior to arriving in Uganda to perform evaluations
• Observation hours available
• Post trip ambassador
• Patient evaluations and treatment (based on level of training and clinical experience)
• Observation and clinical hours available
• SLPA practice
• Evaluations and treatment are supervised by an ASHA certified clinician as per ASHA requirements for supervision
• Limited CFY offered annually
• Must hold ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence
• Time Commitment – minimum 10 days to allow for orientation and cultural readiness
• Patient evaluations & treatment, train staff and caregivers, supervise intern evaluations and treatment, community education and outreach

Even if you aren’t working in the field of speech pathology, we’d love to introduce you to our ministry.

Please send an email to [email protected]  and share your passion for ministry and how you’d like to serve with Hope Speaks.

(Subscribe to our newsletter where we post service needs, etc.) Let us know if you are exploring a possible career in speech pathology.

2024 Summer Trip Dates

For the following trips, the first date is the date you will arrive in Uganda.The last date is the date you would fly out of Uganda. For planning purposes, you will be leaving the day before the first date, and returning the day after the last date.

May 17- June 7, 2024

If approval is given, a $100 non-refundable deposit must be made and a background check passed.  Once that is done, you will need $2000 in your fundraising account page before we can book your flights. The balance of $3000 will be due 6 weeks before you leave. (Deadline for this trip is Feb 17, 2024)

June 14- July 5, 2024 (Full)

If approval is given, a $100 non-refundable deposit must be made and a background check passed.  Once that is done, you will need $2000 in your fundraising account page before we can book your flights. The balance of $3000 will be due May 31. (Deadline for this trip is March 14, 2024)

July 12- August 2, 2024

If approval is given, a $100 non-refundable deposit must be made and a background check passed. We then will need $2200 (or more) raised/paid, so we can book your flights. The later we book the flights, the higher the flight costs. (You pay difference above $2200). The balance of $3100 will be due by the end of June. (Deadline for this trip is March 31, 2024)

2024 Trip Costs

The cost of each of the 3-week trips for 2024 will be $5000 for May/June trips and $5300 (possibly more due to increase in flights) for July/August trips.  This includes: Airfare, lodging in a beautiful guest house with 24/7 security, 2 meals/day, ground transportation while in country (either Hope Speaks vehicle or taxi with Hope Speaks staff), health  insurance while in country, WIFI internet, laundry, utilities, a donation to Hope Speaks programming, and processing fees. 

Not included in the cost: Immunizations prior to travel to Uganda, the $55 Ugandan visa (online prior to trip), phone data, possible meals out to eat, snacks, souvenirs, personal expenses, and excursions (safari and other optional outings depending on what you would like to do).  If you need more information on any more of this, please don't hesitate to ask.

* A non-refundable $100 deposit is required after your application is approved and before a background check is run to secure your trip reservation.

PLEASE NOTE: Hope Speaks is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All money that you raise for your trip is through donation to Hope Speaks and is non-refundable. Hope Speaks is legally unable to issue refunds of tax-deductible donations if your trip is canceled.

• FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS YOU MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN SLP or SUPERVISING PROFESSOR IN ORDER TO SERVE WITH US. They must travel with you to Uganda. No unaccompanied undergraduate students will be able to serve with us by themselves. (new policy from clinical committee)
• Custom travel dates are available between September 2024 and May 2025
• If our scheduled summer trip dates do not work with your personal, work, or school schedule, we are very flexible and will try to make other arrangements so that you are able to serve with Hope Speaks when it works best for you. 
• For professionals who can only volunteer for 2 weeks, the cost is $4300. Volunteers coming for 2-week trips ideally should be able to arrive on the arrival dates listed above so that team training and orientation activities are all done together with the team at the beginning. 
• If you would like to join us for longer than 3 weeks, the cost is $5000 for initial 3 weeks for the May/June trips or  $5300 for the July/August trips + $90/day for every additional day beyond the 3 weeks.
• If you stay longer than 3 months, the daily rate is reduced to $85/day, plus the cost of your flight and a donation to Hope Speaks for programming
• If you would like to complete your CFY with us, please request additional information from our U.S. volunteer coordinator, Deb Bratt ( [email protected] )

Thank you for your interest in serving with Hope Speaks! We look forward to hearing from you! 

If you have any further questions, please feel free to let us know.

Become a Volunteer

Serve with Hope Speaks by becoming a volunteer. Download our application to get started.

Code of Values

Telepractice, testimonials, help is on the way, does my child have a problem.

• Speech and Language Checklists
• Motor and Self-Help Checklists
• Articulation Disorder
• Childhood Apraxia of Speech
• Voice Disorders

Feeding and Swallowing Disorders

• Acquired Childhood Aphasia
• Specific Language Impairment
• Social Communication Disorder
• Cognitive Communication Disorder
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Intellectual Disability
• Handwriting and Dysgraphia
• Motor Disorder
• Sensory Integration Disorder
• Dyslexia and Dysgraphia
• Reading Disability

Pronouncing English

Early intervention, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, applied behavior analysis, social communication groups, reading therapy.

• Choosing Great Toys for Your Child
• How Does Therapy Work
• Prompting Hierarchy: Part 1
• Prompting Hierarchy: Part 2
• Prompting Hierarchy: Part 3
• Top 12 Things to Know About Raising Your Child Bilingually
• Observing and Participating in Your Child’s Therapy
• The Clinician-Parent Partnership
• Children with Delayed Speech
• Children Who Stutter
• Children with Vocal Abuse
• Children with Word Finding Problems
• Frequently Asked Clinical Questions
• Separation from Parents
• Transitioning from Early Intervention to School Services
• Creating and Using Picture Icons for Communication
• Ear Infections and the Development of Language
• Gestures, Signs, Pictures, and Words: How Does It All Work? Part 1
• Gestures, Signs, Pictures, and Words: How Does It All Work? Part 2
• Gestures, Signs, Pictures, and Words: How Does It All Work? Part 3
• Gestures, Signs, Pictures, and Words: How Does It All Work? Part 4
• Language and Play
• Language and Reading
• The Role of Joint Attention in Early Communication
• Pediatric Occupational Therapy Movement and Sensory Integration
• Self-Care Skills
• Sensory Enriching Activities
• What Dressing Skills Should My Child Have?
• What Fine Motor Skills Should My Child Have?
• What Play Skills Should My Child Have?
• Interpreting Your Child’s Behaviors
• Managing Challenging Behaviors: Part 1
• Managing Challenging Behaviors: Part 2
• Managing Challenging Behaviors: Part 3
• Managing Challenging Behaviors: Part 4

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Glossary of terms.

• Adult Appointment Form
• Child Appointment Form

Headquarters

Preparing for the first visit, resources for payment.

Since 1980, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and behavior therapists from the Center for Speech, Language, Occupational Therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis (CSLOT) have been serving the communication, movement, and behavior needs of children and adults in the San Francisco Bay Area. 

CSLOT's staff is comprised of clinical and administrative team members who work together to provide the best possible services for our clients.

The mission of the Center for Speech, Language, Occupational Therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis is to provide communication and movement to those who have lost or have not yet acquired these skills.  We are committed to service, professionalism, and creativity, and we are driven by these commitments to fulfill our mission.

One of the ways in which CSLOT serves our clients is through the use of telepractice.

"CSLOT staff is the friendliest and most helpful staff I have ever encountered, not to mention their professionalism.  I have been here nine months and would highly recommend CSLOT to all my friends.  Thank you so much for the help and support you have given me and my daughter.  She has grown and developed because of your staff and therapists.  I am so very grateful for your center."

Determine if you or your family member have a problem and find out the many ways we can help.

Developmental Milestone Checklists

Areas we assess and treat, speech disorders, language disorders, behavior disorders, motor and sensory disorders, reading disorders.

For infants and toddlers with developmental delays and impairments, we offer individual and group services.

Communication services for infants, toddlers, children, teens, and adults in individual and group sessions.

Motor and sensory services for infants, toddlers, children, and teens in individual and group sessions.

Behavior services using principles of ABA and other therapeutic techniques in individual and group sessions.

Children ages 5-14 building social communication skills with their peers in a fun group setting.

Targeting the neurobiological roots of reading disorders using computer-based technology and multi-sensory reading instruction.

Supporting non-native English speakers learn to pronounce clearly and confidently.

Informative Handouts

A critical aspect of therapy is providing education and resources to parents so that they may know the most effective ways to support their children.

We want to make sure you have the information you need about our services. If your question is not answered here, please call one of our offices and a staff member will further assist you.

Understanding therapeutic terminology can help parents and caregivers better understand written and verbal reports from a variety of service providers. 

Adults with Communication Disorders on the Silver Screen

Small communication changes, great results, make an appointment.

To make an appointment, you may complete an appointment form or call and speak to our front office staff. 

How to speak with us to ask questions and get information.

Welcome to CSLOT! We have been preparing for your first visit with us and we want you to be prepared as well.

CSLOT has established contracts with several insurance companies; find out more here.

Volunteer at CSLOT

CSLOT’s volunteer program is for individuals interested in working in the fields of speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, or applied behavior analysis and is designed to provide exposure to working in the field within our clinic setting.

Our passion is serving children and families in our community and we love helping college students discover their passions as well. Volunteering at CSLOT is one way to explore if a career in the fields of speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, or behavior therapy is right for you. Volunteer tasks are conducted in our headquarters office in Fremont, CA.

*The San Jose, Ca location opening soon for volunteering.

Volunteer Tasks

Volunteers perform a variety of tasks including assisting in our individual and group therapy sessions, preparing equipment and materials for treatment sessions, and completing assigned office tasks.

Volunteer Schedule

The program consists of four-month trimesters and is accommodated on weekdays, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The volunteer commitment must consist of 8 hours per week for the duration of the trimester.

Volunteer Dates

January 2024 – April 2024

May 2024 – August 2024

September 2024 – December 2024

Volunteer Application Process

We accommodate two volunteers per trimester and volunteers are placed on a first-come, first-served basis. CSLOT receives many requests for volunteering opportunities and we are unable to accommodate everyone who expresses interest. If you are interested in volunteering in our office, please complete the CSLOT Volunteer Application .

We know your time is valuable!  Complete the appropriate form below and a member of our office staff will speak with you within 24 hours, Monday-Friday, to set up an appointment.

We look forward to serving you!

CSLOT SF Bay Area: 510-794-5155

Work with a lively and creative team dedicated to improving the lives of those we serve.

Connect With Us

Don't miss out on CSLOT's updates! Connect with us to receive the latest information from CSLOT.

• Employee Email Access
• Employee Training Access
• Privacy Policy

• Join Our Book Club
• Donate Today

• Services We Offer

VIRTUAL APHASIA Support GROUPS

Virtual memory/ problem solving groups, virtual parkinson's groups, virtual caregiver support group, virtual partner training for couples, virtual yoga/fitness group, virtual aphasia groups.

LET'S TALK PROGRAM

The Let’s Talk Program offers small conversation groups online that provide members struggling with aphasia the chance to practice communicating at the conversational level within a supportive environment. These virtual aphasia support groups are led by volunteers and/or stroke survivors trained and supported by a qualified Speech Language Pathologist. * All members are screened and placed in groups accordingly to skill and/or interest. We currently have groups on Wed 6:30pm-7:15pm & Fri 9:15am-10:00am, 10:00am-10:45am, 10:45am-11:30am (Pacific Standard Time) *Group members must have a computer, stable Internet and have the ability to join sessions from home using(omit) using an online video platform * Groups meet on a weekly basis.

BRAINSTRETCH PROGRAM

Brainstretch Program is a small group program for persons with cognitive set-backs where members work their brains by stretching their memory and problem solving skills. These groups are led by volunteers and/or stroke survivors trained and supported by a qualified Speech Language Pathologist. * All members are screened and placed in groups accordingly to skill and/or interest. We currently have groups on Wed 6:30pm-7:15pm & Fri 9:15am-10:00am (Pacific Standard Time) * Group members must have a computer, stable Internet and have the ability to join sessions from home using an online video platform. * Groups meet on a weekly basis.

SPEAKING LOUD + CLEAR PROGRAM

THE COMMUNICATION PARTNERS PROGRAM

The Communication Partners Program offers virtual partner training for couples/families coping with aphasia or motor speech disorders that make communicating difficult. Partner training is provided by a speech language pathologist with experience in working with persons with these disorders and their loved ones. * This is a one-to-one session and can be offered as a short series of appointments depending on need and availability. * Partners must have computer, Internet and able to join session from home using an online video platform.

VIRTUAL Caregiver Support Group

At SRP we believe in supporting the family as a whole. Aphasia, Progressive Illnesses etc impacts the entire family. It is important to practice good self-care so we can give our best. This group meets on the second Friday of each month at 9 am (Pacific Standard Time) and offers a safe place for caregivers to come talk, support and encourage one another. If you are interested please contact us . * Group members must have a computer, stable Internet and have the ability to join sessions from home using an online video platform. * Group meets twice a month

VIRTUAL Yoga/Fitness Group

At Speech Recovery Pathways, we believe in healing the body, mind, and spirit! We want you to be strong and healthy. Join us for some yoga and light fitness via zoom once a month. The sessions are led by the talented Debra Biegert with Iamyogaandfitness. If you are interested please contact us . Sessions are the first Friday of the month 11:30am-12:15pm PST , but subject to change a $5 donation to Speech Recovery is suggested per class

Sign up for our newsletter:

• 1.949.723.9228
• [email protected]
• SpeechRecoveryPathways.org

 700 E Birch St PO Box 9333, Brea CA 92822 

Privacy Policy