McGill Undergraduates for Communications Disorders Awareness (MUCDA)

We collaborate directly with individuals with communication disorders and/or their caregivers to run a mentorship program that pairs McGill students with community members who have speech and/or language disorders. Because individuals with communication disorders may experience social isolation, the program is designed to offer companionship, social support, and a safe space for meaningful conversation. Before beginning the match, McGill volunteers and MUCDA Buddy Program Coordinators meet with each Buddy — or their caregiver — to learn about their needs, preferences, and therapeutic goals.

Each year, MUCDA raises funds to support organizations that serve individuals with communication disorders. At the end of the academic year, all proceeds from our events are donated to a local partner. Previous recipients include:

• Association Québécoise de Personnes Aphasiques, which offers people with aphasia a welcoming, supportive community;
• Maimonides Geriatric Care Centre’s SLP Department, which provides older adults with essential communication-related care;
• Montreal Children’s Hospital SLP Department, which offers a wide array of services for children and adolescents who have speech or language difficulties; and
• Montreal Fluency Centre, a non-profit agency, which supports children with speech and language disorders and learning differences.

MUCDA brings together students who are passionate about communication disorders, many of whom are interested in pursuing careers in speech-language pathology. We share updates on current research, emerging technologies, as well as relevant local events and opportunties to help members stay informed and engaged. We also host career panels that introduce students to professional pathways and opportunities within the fields of communication disorders and speech-language pathology.