Annual Appeal

Dear Friend,

Your help has ensured that SMA continues to raise awareness, educate and connect our community, and support research—all so that we can change the lives of children who struggle with SM. Together we have accomplished so much this year, and we can continue to do amazing things next year with your help.

DONATE NOW so that those who are silent find their voices.

We are excited about our accomplishments this year. Here are some highlights:

  • SMA recently held its annual conference in Las Vegas with Dr. Eli Lebowitz as the keynote speaker. His keynote address expanded our communities’ understanding of parental accommodation of anxiety in youth.
  • We were proud to offer two $500 scholarships to students who demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to selective mutism research at our annual conference.
  • SMA developed a toolkit for educators that covers topics such as “What is SM,” goals of interventions, tips/strategies for teachers working with students and their parents, accommodations for 504 plans and information regarding Individualized Education Plans.
  • We continue to translate and update our website with Spanish materials.
  • We were exhibitors at the National Association for the Educator of Young Children conference in Nashville, TN, in November. We spread awareness among early childhood educators, the people who are often the first to observe symptoms of SM.
  • During SM Awareness Month (October), SMA sponsored book giveaways and utilized social media to post Facts/Tips about SM. One of our facts was shared with over 21,000 people!

We have had a successful year with our fundraising efforts. Facebook birthday fundraisers totaled over $10,000, our Get Loud for Lemonade campaign generated just over $1,000, and we received a generous grant from the Gordon and Marilyn Macklin Foundation. In addition, we have received other significant donations from donors committed to helping our families. Because of the strong financial support from the SM community, our organization has planned the following for 2020:

  • Offer webinars by national experts in SM.
  • Increase social media presence with a PSA and YouTube channels.
  • Attend conferences as exhibitors to spread awareness of SM.
  • Hold another Selective Mutism Training Institute in the Spring.
  • Host our annual conference in Baltimore, MD, in the fall.

In addition to online donations, we also welcome contributions by check made payable to “The Selective Mutism Association” and mailed to 3152 Little Road, Suite 184, Trinity, FL 34655. The Selective Mutism Association is a 501c(3) non-profit corporation, and your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Together, we will grow our impact on the SM community!

With gratitude,

Louis Chesney
Board Member, Chair of Development

Lisa Kovac
Executive Director