Friends: The National Association of Young People Who Stutter
We are the only 501(c)(3) national nonprofit organization dedicated solely to empowering young people who stutter and their families.
Our Mission
Friends aims to provide support, education and empowerment to children and teens who stutter, their families and clinicians.
Our annual conventions and regional one day conferences provide the opportunities for life-changing experiences that can impact long lasting feelings about stuttering and offer new hope for a life with stuttering. Friends seeks to make life easier for young people who stutter and their families.
Our Story
In 1997, Friends was founded by John Ahlbach and Lee Caggiano to meet the need for organized support and education for young people who stutter and their families. Over the years, we have expanded into a national organization that hosts a large annual convention each July and many regional one-day conferences around the country throughout the year.
Upcoming Events
SAT
09
AUG
Virtual Kids Group
A fun-filled group for kids aged 6 to 11. Meet other kids who stutter, make friends, play games, and enjoy each other’s company!
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM ET
SAT
09
AUG
Virtual Parent Group in English
A space for parents, caregivers, and relatives to connect, share ideas and concerns, and learn helpful strategies to best support their young person who stutters.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET
WED
13
AUG
Virtual Teen Group
Welcoming all young people who stutter ages 12 to 17. This group offers a safe space for teens to connect, inspire, and laugh with friends who stutter.
7:30 PM – 8:30 PM ET
THU
14
AUG
Virtual Adults Group
Calling all adults who stutter ages 18 to 39. This is an accepting space for adults who stutter to share stories, feelings, and laughter with friends who understand them.
7:30 PM – 8:45 PM ET
FALL
2025
Fall One-Day Events
Our one-day events are a wonderful opportunity for families to come together to learn more about stuttering and how to support their child while building community.
We’ll be heading to these cities. Save the dates! More information coming soon.
Pittsburgh, PA | Saturday, October 25, 2025
Minneapolis, MN | Saturday, November 8, 2025
Seattle, WA | Saturday, November 8, 2025
Explore Friends
Virtual Programs
We offer monthly virtual programming for kids, teens, young adults, and parents — a time for everyone!
Regional One-Day Events
Full days of group activities, presentations, and panels designed to offer support and information to young people and families
Annual Convention
A 3-day immersive convention with abundant support, family-oriented events, keynote speakers, and workshops for all
