The voice of independence: How communication bridges every program at Pine Tree Society 

For nearly a century, Pine Tree Society has been defined by one mission: bridging the gap between what people with disabilities want to achieve and the tools they need to get there. 

While we offer a wide range of programs, there is a common thread that runs through all of them: the fundamental human right to communicate.

More than words: Our Speech-Language and Assistive Technology philosophy

Our Speech-Language and Assistive Technology (AT) team is integrated across every department at Pine Tree Society, as well as externally with schools and community partners to ensure every individual has a voice.

Our team goes beyond the walls of what one might think about with traditional “speech therapy” (e.g., learning to form sounds); we break down communication barriers so individuals can advocate for themselves, share their feelings and negotiate their daily lives.

A Pathway for Every Individual

We never assume that a lack of speech means a lack of things to say. Instead, our team identifies the unique path for each person, regardless of age or diagnosis. You can see this collaboration in action across all our programs:

• At Pine Tree Camp: Campers share experiences and jokes with new friends using high-tech eye-gaze technology.
• At our Specialized Preschool: Children discover their voices for the first time, building the foundation for lifelong learning.
• In Community Support: We use AT to foster a sense of belonging, reducing the isolation that often comes with communication challenges.
• Other Examples: A stroke survivor learns to navigate an iPad to reconnect with family, or an ALS patient records their voice to preserve their legacy for loved ones.

Collaboration is the Key to Success

At Pine Tree Society, we don’t just provide solutions; we collaborate on them. Our staff acts as partners, but the client is always the lead. By staying on the cutting edge of adaptive equipment and innovative AT, our professionals ensure that the people we serve can meaningfully engage, build relationships and thrive.

Want to learn more about how our Speech-Language and Assistive Technology team can help? Contact us at 207-386-5930 or communicationpathways@pinetreesociery.org or enquire here to see how we can help you or a loved one find the right pathway to communication.