2005 | Leinster | Level 2
Tara Cunningham
Release Communication Intervention
In July 2003, Tara Cunningham decided to pursue the idea of Release Communication Intervention, a social enterprise which teaches caregivers the skills they need to enhance the communication abilities of their children. While working as a Fundraiser for Down Syndrome Ireland, Tara had learned of the massive need for Speech and Language Therapy in Ireland.
The Release programme utilises a group therapy approach, which enables the Speech and Language Therapist to work with both the children and the parents in a holistic manner.
Release launched in November 2004 and since opening their doors in January 2005 they have worked with over 500 children of varying communication difficulties totalling over 5,000 hours of communication therapy, with satisfaction ratings above 95% from all participants.
In 2008, Release will conduct research on the program in collaboration with The George Washington University and New York University, and will be submitting a Call for Papers for the 2009 ASHA Convention, with the goal to presenting best practice.
Tara was named an Ashoka-SEI Fellow in 2007 and was the 2007-2008 Alumni representative on the Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Board of Directors.
www.release.ie
