The Aphasia Center of West Texas began with a case study of a small group of stroke survivors. Even though they knew what they wanted to say, they could not state their most basic need or reliably state their own names. At ages 51, 52, and 70, all had been discharged from traditional speech therapy and a dramatically changed life lay ahead.
Well respected community leader, the late Nancy Anguish, enthusiastically agreed to be the founding Board President.
After receiving a grant from the Helen Greathouse Charitable Trust, Aphasia Center staff made a trip to Toronto, Canada for training at the renowned Aphasia Institute. They joined representatives from multiple countries, all learning the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia (LPAA).
After working for almost two years, the very first all about aphasia course was offered and 22 survivors and families attended. Four new program classes were launched with more than 50 people served.
Our first ever annual fundraising gala, Chocolate Decadence, was held to do delicious good for stroke survivors and still continues as our biggest fundraiser.
Moved to present location at 5214 Thomason Drive and began a capital campaign.
Kitty Binek was hired as the Executive Director to carry the torch of the Founder, Kathryn Shelley. This same year, weekly tours began to demonstrate the needs for the capital campaign and the loan from WTNB for the acquisition of the building was paid off in six months!
$1.8 million in capital contributions were raised for building renovations necessary to serve people living with aphasia.
ACWT hosted 24 leaders from 13 states and two Canadian provinces to learn and collaborate with each other.
Aphasia Access serves as a network of healthcare, business, and community leaders to advance lifelong communication access for people with aphasia.
Celebrated the 10th Aphasia Awareness Concert fundraiser bringing live tribute bands and aphasia education to the Permian Basin.
Adapted programming by implementing zoom groups and letter writing campaigns to continue to serve clients through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Introduced a new shop program with a local collaboration from the Boy Scouts, held first ever virtual Chocolate Decadence, offered a live stream of the Aphasia Awareness Concert.
The Aphasia Center of West Texas continues to lead with evidence-based innovative programming, individual outcomes, and strong leadership. At the heart of our mission are the individuals with aphasia who inspire us by their courage, motivation, and resilience – proving that there is LIFE after aphasia.
Thank you for visiting our site. Please consider getting involved and helping those with aphasia live their best life.
Fees are $150/month for unlimited groups per week and $75/month for up to two groups per week. Program fees are billed on a monthly basis and sliding scale scholarships are also available. We are committed to serving those who need our services.
Individuals may pay a per-ride or monthly fee for transportation to and from the Aphasia Center in Midland on our mobility van. We also partner with Mission Center Adult Day Service to provide transportation to and from Odessa.
WE COLLABORATE WITH OTHER LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS TO OVERCOME BARRIERS OF PARTICIPATION.
