A significant number of OPARC clients experience either partial or total inability to communicate verbally. Communication is an essential part of living, making possible the expression of desires, the sharing of emotions, and the transmission of vital information regarding health and other personal conditions. Unless mitigated by other communication methodologies, this disability materially detracts from the quality of life. The goal of this program is to enhance the communication abilities of clients — to “normalize” their lives as much as possible. It is OPARC’s goal to make speech pathology services available to as many clients as possible, given limited financial capacity. OPARC currently employs a qualified, licensed speech pathologist approximately 45 hours per month, providing a variety of communication-related services to 40 or more clients in small group sessions. If you would like to recieve additional information regarding the Speech Pathology Program please call Andrea Erickson, (909) 985-3116, ext. 25.