SAY: DC programs use the power of listening, creative expression, and community building to open up new worlds of possibility for every participant. For over 20 years, the SAY approach has been rooted in the belief that every young person has an important story to tell and the ability to share it with the world in their own unique and powerful way.
SAY: DC is a free, weekly creative arts program for young people who stutter, ages 5-18. Through self-expression, collaboration, and connection, participants build confidence, communication skills, and lasting friendships. Programming takes place in three 8-week sessions throughout the year.
The SAY: DC Fall 2025 season begins in October. Enrollment opens soon! Join this inspiring community in Washington, DC, and help your child discover the power of their voice.
At SAY, we believe the arts are for everybody. Here, young people can feel free to explore new modes of expression in a safe and supported context. At the forefront is our trust in the power of listening and the inner strength that comes from nurturing supportive friendships. When you know your friends truly understand and empathize with you and have your back, you can do anything.
SAY: DC weekly gatherings happen every Saturday (excluding holidays), from 10 AM to noon. Our session is held at the SAY: DC Studio on Rhode Island Avenue NW. These “Clubhouse” gatherings are available to young people who stutter, ages 5-18, and are offered 100% free of charge. All project materials will be provided.
At Clubhouse gatherings, we come together to create a community of fun, support, creativity, and imagination. With the guidance of SAY: DC Co-Founder, Leigh Pennebaker, and a team of accomplished Teaching Artists, participants explore a variety of approaches to making art. We place an emphasis on increasing confidence, maximizing joy, unleashing curiosity, and inspiring collaboration. Over the year, projects will incorporate creative writing, printmaking, sculpture, painting, mixed-media, drawing, creative movement, games, textile art, jewelry-making, acting, and improvisation. The Clubhouse creates a supportive haven to make new friends and explore self-expression in a caring, safe environment.
Underlying everything is the Camp SAY “cabin effect”: the transformative experience of being part of a tight-knit team — a diverse group that shares the commonality of being young people who stutter. Our mixed-age group allows for a wide range of mentorships and collaborations. Every season, each cohort becomes a group of friends that feels like family and knows how to listen to and support each other. Our creative year will lead to an opportunity to share what we have done with the rest of the SAY: DC community, family, and friends.
Central to our mission is the breaking down of all financial barriers to attendance. SAY: DC is dedicated to providing our award-winning programming completely free of charge.
SAY: DC is centrally located in the vibrant Golden Triangle, just two blocks from the Farragut North and Dupont Circle Metro Stations. Our open and expansive studio space is awash with natural light and stunning views of the city skyline. It is a place for the SAY: DC community to feel welcomed and inspired.
SAY offers comprehensive programming options to kids & teens who stutter (ages 5-18), both locally in NYC and nationally.
QUESTIONS ABOUT SAY: DC?
Our Programming Staff is happy to help. Contact Leigh Pennebaker, Director of SAY: DC at Leigh@say.org.
If you have any questions, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or contact us directly by email or phone.