
Evan Frank's Eagle Scout project for a Communication Board
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I am Evan Frank with BSA Troop 565, and this is my Eagle Scout Project fundraiser for the installation of a communication board in 132nd Square Park in Kirkland, WA. I have two nephews that are both non-verbal autistic, and my experience interacting and learning how to communicate with them brought me to the idea of this project.
The City of Kirkland is home to a diverse spectrum of almost 100,000 people from different backgrounds, cultures, and histories. Like other towns, some Kirkland residents don't speak the same language....both verbal and non-verbal...and this project attempts to enable both kids and adults to bridge those communication barriers.
These boards are designed to help individuals with communication. They also provide a visual means for expressing wants, needs, and ideas. While they are often associated with non-speaking individuals, their benefits extend far beyond this specific group.
Communication boards offer significant benefits in playgrounds and other public spaces by promoting inclusivity and enhancing communication for individuals with diverse needs. In a playground setting, these boards can help close the divide between non/limited communication ability and meaningful engagement with peers.
Communication boards can benefit every child, helping them develop language and vocabulary skills. Using visual symbols, these boards offer a tangible way for children to communicate, learn, and understand new words. They can provide a bridge between thoughts and expression and help promote engagement in various social settings.
Young children who are just learning to talk, individuals that are non verbal, and people of all ages where English is their 2nd language will be able to use this board to communicate with each other. As these boards have proven in other public spaces, it will foster better sense of community and belonging with folks who may not be able to interact with others in a free setting like this park will provide.
This board will be the first of its kind installed in a Kirkland City park, and will help connect the members of the community with each other.
Your contribution helps so much, and it means a great deal to me. Thank you very much for your support of my project!
Evan
Organizer
Evan Frank
Organizer
Kirkland, WA