CSHA Foundation

The CSHA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to supporting the mission of empowering all individuals with the fundamental human right to engage and connect, particularly through addressing communication disorders. It is closely affiliated with the California Speech-Language Hearing Association (CSHA), which is a key organization focusing on speech-language pathologists (SLPs), audiologists (AuDs), and related professionals in California[1][4].

Mission and Activities

The foundation's primary mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with speech, hearing, and other medical challenges by providing resources, support, and advocacy. It achieves this by supporting students pursuing careers in speech-language pathology and audiology through scholarships and educational programs. The foundation also works to raise public awareness about communication disorders and the services available to address them[1][5].

Leadership and Governance

The CSHA Foundation is led by a board of volunteer professionals and students. Notable leadership includes Marcella Cardoza McCollum (Chair), Christine Villareal (Secretary/Treasurer), and others who are recognized professionals in their fields[5].

Financial Aspects

As a 501(c)(3) organization, contributions to the CSHA Foundation are generally tax-deductible based on current Internal Revenue Service regulations. The foundation seeks donations to support its initiatives, emphasizing the importance of continued funding for its programs[1][5]. In recent efforts, the foundation has initiated a significant fundraising campaign to expand its impact[1].

Impact and Community Outreach

The foundation's efforts benefit a wide range of individuals, including young children with autism or language delays, people with hearing loss, stutterers, and adults recovering from injuries or strokes. Additionally, it supports thousands of professionals in schools, hospitals, and regional centers across California, as well as universities training future professionals in these fields[1][4]. The CSHA Foundation plays a crucial role in building a diverse workforce in communication disorders, enhancing the community's ability to address these challenges effectively[1].

Overall, the CSHA Foundation is dedicated to fostering an environment where all Californians can exercise their right to communicate and connect effectively.