The best revolutions often start with a simple question: “What if?” In this case, that question came from Barbara Fernandes, a speech-language pathologist, advocate and the Founder of Smarty Symbols, who was already deeply entrenched for over a decade in many missions to make the world more welcoming and inclusive for everyone. But her most recent call to action amplifies this mission into something even more transformative.

In the wake of preparations for the much-anticipated 2023 Convention for the American Speech and Hearing Convention in Boston this november, Barbara asked: “What if we could leave a lasting, positive mark on the Boston community during the ASHA 2023 Convention?” While many would regard such an ambitious notion with skepticism, Barbara saw an untapped reservoir of possibility. What began as a singular thought is now a collective rallying cry, reaching far beyond the conference rooms and exhibition halls to impact entire communities.

The Background: Communication as an The Universal Right

The right to communicate is universal, but the methods are manifold. While many of us effortlessly convey our thoughts and emotions through words, many others—children and adults alike—use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems to interact with the world. And in bustling places like bookstores, zoos, and pediatric clinics, the need for universal communication systems has never been more urgent.

For non-speaking children, children with communication differences,  delays and disorders, having alternative formats for expression is critical for learning, effective communication, and participation in life’s various activities. Despite advancements in the field, two major challenges continue to exist:

1. Public Access: Ensuring communication facilities in public spaces, especially for children who are not yet introduced to AAC systems.
2. Early Identification: Providing early access to a reliable speech-generating communication system for children who have not yet been properly assessed.

Smarty Symbols has since 2021 been more than a catalyst in promoting inclusivity in public spaces. From designing communication boards in school playgrounds and city parks to libraries and even waterparks, Barbara and her team have paved the way for a more inclusive society. Yet, understanding the vastness of what needs to be achieved, Barbara initiated the “All Voices, Any Place” campaign, a targeted effort to make communication access universally attainable and to connect diverse voices everywhere.

All Voices, Any Places

Launched in September 2023, “All Voices, Everywhere” is an ambitious project born out of a collaboration between Smarty Symbols and Smarty Ears, both innovative ventures founded by Barbara Fernandes. This initiative made its public debut alongside the introduction of a cutting-edge speech-generating app, Expressive Go.

A Dual Strategy for Maximum Impact

The mission of “All Voices, Any Place” is guided by a two-fold strategy, each with its own set of targeted goals:

1. Widespread Installation of Communication Boards: The first phase, spearheaded by Smarty Symbols, aims to exponentially increase the availability of communication boards in public spaces. These boards serve as invaluable resources for individuals who rely or have never been exposed to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
2. Boosting Accessibility of Speech-Generating Systems: The second pillar, championed by Smarty Ears, is geared towards raising public awareness and expanding access to speech-generating software applications.

A Transformative Experience for All

Consider the transformative potential of this project: Imagine a family visiting a playground or a public park. As they arrive, they notice specially designed communication boards by Smarty Symbols. These boards aren’t merely visual aids; they are tools of empowerment for children a with communication differences and disorders and their families.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. Each communication board features a QR code, providing instant access to download Expressive Go. Now, not only are individuals empowered through tactile and visual means, but they also have immediate access to a digital tool that facilitates verbal communication.

By merging physical and digital spaces, “All Voices, Any Place” offers a holistic solution to the challenges of accessible communication. In doing so, it serves as a blueprint for creating truly inclusive environments, transcending the limits of language and setting a new standard for universal interaction.

Extending “All Voices, Any Place” : Why Boston?

Every year, the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) convention stands as a beacon for advancement and camaraderie in the fields of speech, language, and audiology. This year, the convention is set to occur from November 16-18 in Boston, a city renowned for its rich history and commitment to education. While Boston serves as a host, it is also a launchpad for an initiative that aims to extend the benefits of the ASHA convention beyond the event itself and into the community.

Traditionally, attendees arrive eager to absorb new knowledge and network with peers, enriching their professional lives. But this year, the convention holds the potential for an even greater impact. A new initiative seeks to transform these three days of concentrated expertise into a lasting imprint on the Boston community, elevating the experience from a transient event to a sustained contribution to public well-being.

This transformative vision aspires to create a ripple effect, originating in Boston but capable of affecting communities globally. Rather than merely departing with new insights and connections, attendees and the broader community have the opportunity to be part of an enduring legacy focused on inclusion and diverse means of communication. This initiative, independent yet thematically aligned with the ASHA convention, marks a seminal moment in advocating for accessible and inclusive communication everywhere.

The Spark: A Journey Towards Inclusive Communication in Boston

While sipping a cup of coffee just seven weeks prior to the ASHA convention, Barbara Fernandes had her “aha” moment—a question bubbled up: “What if I could leave something more lasting in Boston than just my attendance?”

Call to Action: More Than Just One Board

Initially, the idea was straightforward: donate a single communication board to a Boston location. A communication board is a simple but powerful tool for helping those with communication differences interact with the world around them. But Barbara quickly realized the impact could be so much greater. What if she could leverage her network to donate not just one but multiple communication boards throughout the Greater Boston area?

Mobilizing Her Network

With this expanded vision in mind, Barbara reached out to her colleagues, partners, and fellow advocates in the field. Within a week, she had commitments to fully fund 18 large communication boards; two weeks later the initiative closed to donors and a massive total of 28 communication boards had been fully funded and were being designed and a few already shipped to their recipients. What started as a solo endeavor had quickly transformed into a collaborative, large-scale initiative, thanks to the power of collective action.

The overwhelming response to our Boston Initiative has been heartening, to say the least. When the call for applications was released, we were flooded with 65 enthusiastic submissions, each one reflecting the spirit and needs of various communities. From early childhood programs to hospitals and from public schools to recreational parks, the diversity among the applicants was striking. They came from different backgrounds, and they all united under one common vision: the desire for a brighter, more inclusive future.

This overwhelming response is more than just numbers; it’s an affirmation of the importance of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in public life. It signals a clear, collective acknowledgment that communities are ready to adopt inclusive communication as a standard practice.

The Boston Initiative is not just the realization of one individual’s vision; it stands tall on the collective effort of 18 donor organizations. These organizations have been the linchpin of the initiative, and their unwavering support has been instrumental in turning a “crazy idea” into a landmark achievement. Their contributions go beyond the financial, infusing the project with belief, passion, and an unwavering commitment to fostering communication and inclusivity.

From Barbara Fernandes’ audacious vision on September 25th to just days before the ASHA convention kicks off on November 16th, the Boston Initiative has rapidly transformed into an extraordinary success story.

Every initiative of this scale requires a strong foundation, and ours was no different. But what truly made this undertaking extraordinary were the individuals who listen to her call to action and tirelessly work behind the scenes.  We all can relate to having incredibly big ideas and dream who get easily shot down by family and friends, what makes this special is that four individuals not only supported the idea by lifted up they sleeves and join in: Amanda Schaumburg, Darla Gardner, Remi Salami and Michelle Posner.

While the milestones reached are highly visible markers of success, what often goes unnoticed is the tireless work, dedication, and community spirit that powers initiatives like “All Voices, Any Place: 2023 Boston Edition.” Making something this monumental come to life is far from a solo effort; it’s a symphony of collaborative voices, each playing a crucial role.

From the countless messages and calls to friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, asking them to believe in what initially seemed like a “crazy idea,” to sending emails to thousands, building a web page with details, brainstorming outreach, the outreach efforts have been herculean. Each call made and each email sent were not mere administrative tasks but essential steps toward building a community of trust and shared vision.

The power of community really shines through when people believe in an idea enough to lift themselves and act. A few standout individuals deserve special recognition for their indispensable contributions:

The journey of realizing this dream was truly a collaborative one. Special kudos to some standout stars:

• MedSLP Collective, Panda Speech, Ms. Gardenia Speech Room and Simply Special Ed, who went above and beyond by donating multiple communication boards. Their extra dash of generosity ensured more spaces in Boston became hubs of inclusivity.
• A massive shoutout to Amanda Schaumburg from Panda Speech! Not only did she back this initiative with her donation, but she also rolled up her sleeves and got actively involved. Thanks to her relentless efforts, the Boston Zoo is set to be more inclusive with three brand-new communication boards! When you next visit, you'll see the magic Mandi helped bring to life.

Each donor, every helping hand, has been a pillar in this initiative. Whether it was one board or multiple, each contribution has woven into this beautiful tapestry of communication we're laying out across Boston.

What sets this initiative apart is not just its immense scale but the astounding speed at which it was executed—all in less than three weeks! Beyond these already remarkable factors, this initiative warrants recognition for several other groundbreaking accomplishments:

Rapid Funding:

A staggering 28 boards were fully funded in a timeframe that sets a new precedent.

Linguistic Inclusivity:

The project breaks ground in offering bilingual communication boards. Not only are many boards available in English and Spanish, but due to the significant Brazilian and Portuguese immigrant population in Boston, boards in Portuguese and English were also produced. This is particularly poignant given that the catalyst for this initiative is herself a Brazilian immigrant.

Corporate Collaboration:

An impressive roster of 18 companies heeded the call to action, demonstrating a united front in supporting individuals with communication and learning differences.

Diverse Installations:

This initiative has made its mark in a variety of locations, from school and public playgrounds to bookstores, the Boston Zoo, a church and even a pediatric hospital.

Each of these facets underscores the multi-dimensional success of this initiative, proving that when a community comes together, incredible transformation is not just possible—it's achievable in record time.