October seems to be the month of awareness for many organizations, so we’re going to add one more to the list. Along with cancer research and blindness awareness, October is dedicated to raising awareness about augmentative and alternative communication. What better way to get people talking about these unique communication methods than hosting a talk-a-thon?!
The third annual 24-hour AAC Internet Chat/Read-a-thon will take place on October 26 beginning at 7 a.m. Eastern Time. The idea is to get people all over the world talking about, learning about and advocating for access to communication for all.
The AAC awareness campaign team will keep the online chats open and active for 24 continuous hours so that people who use AAC and their friends, families, colleagues and other supporters can join in to share stories, resources and information.
Each hour or so will be held by a different host from all over the world. This year the hosts are Judy Bailey, Justin Bergers, Jeremy Brown, Terry Gibson, Kathy Pink, and Faye Warren. HOSTS ARE STILL NEEDED. Contact the organization at info@aacawareness.org or judybailey@aol.com if you wish to host using one of the possible venues.
Speaking of venues, here is how you can join.
Skype: send your Skype name to info@aacawreness.org or connect with Judy on Skype at judy.bailey3. Make sure to do this with plenty of advanced notice! The sooner they can add you to the list, the easier the process will be!
AAC Chat Room: 24-hour Read-a-Thon cite Chat Room: sign in and let us know your location http://client11.adonchat.com/chat.php?id=546228&s
Facebook: International AAC Month (post information and links, follow the postings, comment, instant message)
Twitter: Post and follow tweets with the hashtag #AACchat, which has been chosen for the 24-hour AAC event tweets
Online Radio: Send requests for songs to be played by Justin Bergers on his radio server during the 24-hour event. Make sure to send the requests to justin_bergers2006@comcast.net
Last year the event had participants from seven countries; the goal this year is to break that record! If you’re interested or know someone else who might be interested in participating in this awesome event, make sure to check out their Facebook page (International AAC Month) for updates and information.
24 hours online is a wonderful was to celebrate AAC around the world!