NBPL release - On Wednesday, September 24 at 6:00 PM, the North Bend Public Library is partnering with speech-language pathologist Coletta Manske, M.A., CCC-SLP, to host an educational event on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.  AAC devices are tools that help individuals fully meet their communication needs when natural speech is difficult. They play a vital role for many people with complex communication challenges, supporting them in achieving their goals and engaging more fully with the world around them.  During this free community event, attendees will learn:  An introduction to AAC devices and how they support communication; Practical strategies to support individuals using AAC devices; Live demonstrations of AAC programs and devices.  At the end of the program, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs) will be available to answer questions and demonstrate devices.  This program is designed for parents, teachers, support staff, outpatient therapists, school-based SLPs, and anyone who works with or cares for people with complex communication needs.  Coletta Manske, M.A., CCC-SLP completed her graduate program at Calvin University. Her professional interests include augmentative and alternative communication, and she is credentialed in SPEAK OUT! She currently works as a speech language pathologist at Southwest Rehabilitation in North Bend, Oregon. For more information about Coletta, please see https://southwestrehabilitation.com/meet-the-staff/.