Medicaid cuts | CommunicationFIRST

See Us, Hear Us Film Screening & Chat with Bob Williams & Forest Haven Survivors Ricardo & Donna Thornton

May 19, 2025 Communication FIRST

This webinar first aired on October 15, 2024, and begins with a screening of CommunicationFIRST’s latest See Us, Hear Us film featuring Bob Williams. It is followed by a discussion among CommunicationFIRST Policy Director Bob Williams, Forest Haven Institution survivors Ricardo Thornton and Donna Thornton, and advocate and ally Rebecca Salon.

A smiling child wearing a gold crown sits in a mobility chair outside while looking at an AAC device.

Virginia Legislature To Require AAC Training in Schools

March 28, 2025 Communication FIRST

Listen

Earlier this week, Virginia adopted its first law expressly addressing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Read our summary and statement of the law here.

Multiple white marble columns on a bright day.

CommunicationFIRST Statement Opposing Attack on the Administration for Community Living

March 27, 2025 Communication FIRST

Listen

Read CommunicationFIRST’s statement in response to the planned elimination of the Administration for Community Living.

Black words over a white background read: “The most powerful way to advocate is to tell your story.” Blue quotes surround the text.

Advocating for Policy Change

March 19, 2025 Communication FIRST

Listen

Medicaid is at risk! Your elected representatives need to hear how losing your Medicaid waiver would change your life. This Policy Advocacy for AAC Users toolkit provides some tips.

Alongside their aides, AAC users eat boxed lunches at a table in a hotel atrium.

What Would You Do Without Your Aide?

January 31, 2025 Communication FIRST

Listen

Share how Medicaid cuts would hurt you or those around you who need Medicaid to stay in the community. We put together some resources from our amazing partners to make this easy!