(7/15) Commissioner Amy Pollitt asked the Council to consider adding an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) board at E. Eugene Myers Community Park, an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant playground, at July’s Town Council meeting.

The board would display basic core words that everyone uses on a daily basis to supplement and enhance language for individuals who do not have a functional communication system yet.

"Families and Speech Language Pathologists use AAC core boards to support individuals who have difficulty communicating through speech. The AAC board in the park would be similar the resources that are being used in therapy," Pollitt said.

"They enhance communication by providing a means for non-verbal individuals or those with limited speech to express themselves, ask for help, and engage with others. This can improve their overall experience and sense of independence. Anyone can use communication boards since they display a word paired with a picture symbol." Pollitt outlined some of the benefits the boards have for communities such as Emmitsburg, including:

Inclusion and Accessibility - AAC boards promote inclusion and accessibility because they ensure that everyone, regardless of their communication abilities, can participate in social and recreational activities at the park. This inclusively fosters a welcoming environment for all community members.

Awareness and Acceptance - AAC boards in public spaces raise awareness about different communication needs and promote understanding and acceptance within the community.

Support - By providing AAC boards in public spaces, the town supports families and caregivers who want to facilitate communication with their loved ones in a public setting.

Safety – Lastly, the boards provide a sense of safety in emergency situations for non-verbal individuals because they can communicate their needs quickly and effectively.

Pollitt outlined a general estimate of $2,500 for the AAC board; however, the Town and the Parks and Recreation Committee are looking into grant possibilities for the project. One grant that would be a good fit would be the Community Parks and Playground grant, which has a deadline in August.

Pollitt also suggested the local libraries may consider adding an AAC board in their children's areas, which would be significantly less expensive since they won’t be exposed to the outside elements. A simple laminated poster could be displayed in a common area.

"At this time no decision was made for or against the AAC board, however, once funding is hopefully obtained, they may be a reality," Pollitt said.