Dear Friend,
As we near the end of another unparalleled year, the team at the Tourette Association of America (TAA) has been reflecting on the work that has been accomplished. The global events of last year pushed us to rethink how we can better increase awareness for Tourette Syndrome (TS) and address the most pressing issues facing our community. In 2021 the TAA focused on a path of growth stemming from those efforts.
From offering more comprehensive webinars, organizing an expansive second Virtual Conference, establishing the Impact Survey to better understand the impact of TS on daily life, to presenting a celebratory Virtual Gala highlighting the power of abilities, TAA staff and volunteers have rallied together to ensure those in the community will always have access to us. Still, we could not have accomplished as much as we did without your unwavering support. Please continue your involvement by making a tax-deductible, year-end donation by Friday, December 31.
Looking ahead to 2022, there are so many ways for you and your loved ones to participate. Opportunities include the upcoming Youth Ambassadors and Rising Leaders trainings that prepare teens and young adults to become part of the next generation of TS leaders, as well as Virtual National Tourette Advocacy Day, where you can meet Congressional leaders and advocate on behalf of the community. Registration is open for our National Conference, which will be held in-person in Minneapolis, MN on May 13-15, and those interested in presenting can still apply until Thursday, December 30.
I want to thank each and every one of you for continuing to support us and one another. In 2022, the TAA will be celebrating our 50th anniversary. What a monumental milestone! You can expect many exciting initiatives and programs within the upcoming months. Until then, I wish you all the happiest of holidays and a New Year full of promise and hope.

Apply for an Ambassador Training
[Awareness]
Youth and young adults aged 12-17 and 18-25 are encouraged to apply for the upcoming virtual Youth Ambassadors and Rising Leaders trainings!
The trainings offer a space to connect with peers from around the country while learning advocacy practices. Discover how to raise awareness by educating your community on TS and Tic Disorders. The deadline to apply is Monday, January 3, 2022.

2022 Impact Survey
[Research]
Assist the TAA in assessing the impact of TS and Tic Disorders on individuals and families. By participating in the 2022 Impact Survey, your involvement will help us further support the community by educating the public and lawmakers on critical issues facing the community.
As an added bonus, all survey participants will have a chance to win a $500 Amazon gift card!! The deadline to participate is Friday, December 31.

Present at Conference
[Support]
National Conference, happening on May 13 – 15, 2022, is an event providing dozens of informative sessions for the TS and Tic Disorder community to learn, engage, and connect with each other. To this end, we are calling for submissions to present at Conference!
Potential topics include a focus on Coprolalia, bullying issues, managing daily challenges, and essential life skills, in addition to presentations specifically addressing co-occurring conditions like OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. The deadline to submit applications is Thursday, December 30.

Advocate for the TS Community
[Public Policy]
Make your voice heard and advocate on behalf of the Tourette Syndrome community during Virtual National Tourette Advocacy Day! On March 2, 2022, join the TS community across the country in discussing the issues that matter most, right from your own home!
Meet with Congressional leaders to help them better understand the successes, trials, and tribulations of the condition. The early bird registration rate is 50% off until Friday, December 31.

What's Happening
[News and Events]
- 1/5/22 – 1/9/22: 2022 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
- 1/11/22: TikTok Tics: TS & FND
- 2/24/22 – 2/27/22: 2022 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend
- 2/28/22 – 3/2/22: Youth Ambassadors Training (Applications due 1/3/22)
- 2/28/22 – 3/2/22: Rising Leaders Training (Applications due 1/3/22)
- 3/2/22: Virtual National Advocacy Day
- 5/13/22 – 5/15/22: National Conference
- Click below to see all upcoming events