Northwest Augmentative Communication Society
Sharing knowledge and building community across the AAC landscape – for providers, supporters, AAC users, and everyone seeking solutions.
Wherever you’re coming from, you’re welcome here. NWACS helps you learn, connect, and navigate the world of AAC with confidence.
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. AAC is anything other than speech that a person uses to help them communicate. AAC benefits people of all ages when spoken language does not meet all their communication needs.
Who We Serve
People come to AAC from many different starting points. NWACS supports them all.
AAC Basics
No matter who you are, if you are not sure where to start, start with the AAC basics.
View our Events
Come to an upcoming NWACS event! Everyone is welcome.
Announcements
NWACS 2026 Theme: Joy and Connection in AAC
Sub-theme of the Month
In February, we’re focusing on AAC & Relationships. Connection, consent, and communication matter in every relationship. AAC plays a vital role in supporting autonomy, safety, intimacy, and meaningful relationships across the lifespan. Joy and connection begin with being heard and respected.
NWACS is Recruiting!
We have open roles on the NWACS board. We are actively seeking diversity. Interested in adding your perspective and voice to our organization? Explore open roles and learn more!
Announcements
What’s New?
Check out the latest blog posts and resources published across the NWACS website.
Joy and Connection in AAC
Read more about our guiding theme for 2026.
Sub-theme of the Month
Our August sub-theme is AAC and Inclusive Learning! Learning happens everywhere. In classrooms. On the playground. At the lunch table. In hallways and buses and after-school clubs. Every AAC user deserves full access to all of it, alongside their peers, from day one. Inclusive learning is more than physical placement. It is access to vocabulary and curriculum. It is having effective communication partners. It is real academic expectations. It is space to be involved and an active participant.
What’s New?
Check out the latest blog posts and resources published across the NWACS website.
Registration is Open!
Join us on Sunday, October 11, 2026 for the 2026 NWACS Virtual Fall Conference: AAC User Perspectives! You will not want to miss this opportunity for a day of learning that puts AAC voices front and center.
NWACS is Recruiting!
We have open roles on the NWACS board. We are actively seeking diversity. Interested in adding your perspective and voice to our organization? Explore open roles and learn more!
NWACS 2026 Theme: Joy and Connection in AAC
Sub-theme of the Month
In February, we’re focusing on AAC & Relationships. Connection, consent, and communication matter in every relationship. AAC plays a vital role in supporting autonomy, safety, intimacy, and meaningful relationships across the lifespan. Joy and connection begin with being heard and respected.
NWACS is Recruiting!
We have open roles on the NWACS board. We are actively seeking diversity. Interested in adding your perspective and voice to our organization? Explore open roles and learn more!
Announcements
Sub-theme of the Month
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What NWACS Offers
Clear, practical ways to learn, connect, and support communication across the AAC community.
AAC Learning
Foundational concepts, guidance, and best practices to help you understand AAC and support effective communication.
Community
A welcoming network of AAC users, families, and professionals sharing stories and expanding awareness.
Resources
Tools, materials, directories, and guidance to support AAC implementation at every level.
Spotlighted Tools and Topics
A growing collection of AAC guidance, tools, stories, and recorded sessions – building on more than 40 years of community knowledge.
Across the Lifespan
Find information and resources to support communication by age group.
Continuing Education
Delve into ways to grow your knowledge about AAC and AT.
Provider Directory
Check out our AAC Provider Directory for professionals in Washington State.
Systems
Learn about AAC/AT systems and companies, and explore options for borrowing or funding equipment.
Evaluation Tools
Explore AAC/AT evaluation tools used by professionals.
Downloadable Resources
Download and print resources (including our handouts for getting started with AAC).
Upcoming NWACS Events
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2026 NWACS Virtual Fall Conference
Sunday, October 11, 2026
8:45 am – 4:15 pm Pacific
virtual
There are no NWACS events at this time. Please check back, and be sure to sign up for our Newsletter to receive the latest news and updates.
Newsletters
Stay connected and up-to-date with all things NWACS.
Get Involved
NWACS grows through community. Explore ways to volunteer, contribute content, or support statewide AAC awareness.
