Expanding Communication and Sensory Tools for Students with Special Needs

We were proud to support Tampa's LaVoy Exceptional Center by providing a THF grant at Passport to Paris 2025. Grant funds were provided to purchase high-quality assistive technology and sensory materials to better support the development of students with special needs.

These resources will be used in therapy sessions, classrooms, and the school’s sensory room to encourage functional communication and social interaction. Tools like AAC devices and specialized toys will help students build relationships and express themselves in meaningful ways.

By enhancing classroom access to these materials, LaVoy is providing its students, many of whom have mixed language impairments, with opportunities to engage, explore, and thrive.

Dede Cocchiola of LaVoy Exceptional Center applied for the grant ealier this year. She could not attend the event, but shared the following in her application:

“Our students are active, adventurous learners. To foster meaningful therapy interactions and strengthen positive adult-student relationships, we require highly motivating, sensory-friendly materials that align with their interests and developmental needs.”

We are honored to support LaVoy’s mission to create a more inclusive and engaging learning environment for every student.