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Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Who We Are
Our Mission
One Voice Arkansas exists to raise awareness of Childhood Apraxia of Speech, empower families through education and resources, and build a compassionate community that supports every child’s voice and journey toward communication.
Our Vision
A world where every child with apraxia has a voice and access to the support they need to thrive.
Our Values
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Empowerment through knowledge and resources to help children find their voice.
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Compassion through understanding and support for every family's journey.
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Collaboration through partnerships that strengthen community and care.
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Advocacy through awareness and action to ensure every child is heard.
Our Story
At first glance, Rowen was every bit the joyful toddler—radiant with smiles, brimming with energy, and surrounded by a loving, supportive family. Her laughter lit up every room, and her needs were met with hugs, giggles, and gestures. There was no reason to worry—until the signs became too clear to ignore.
By the time Rowen was 18 months old, she still wasn’t speaking like her peers. “Kids develop at their own pace,” we told ourselves. But as her second birthday came and went without a single word, quiet concern turned into a determined search for answers.
With hope in our hearts, we began speech therapy, believing that a little support would bridge the gap. But progress was slow. Frustratingly slow. And behind the silence grew a fear we didn’t know how to name.
Then came the diagnosis: Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)—a rare motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to plan and coordinate the movements needed to speak. The words were in Rowen’s mind, but they couldn’t find their way out.
It was overwhelming, isolating, and deeply unfamiliar. We had never heard of CAS before, and quickly realized how few others had, too. But in that challenging season, something extraordinary happened—we found community. One voice at a time, we met families who had walked this path. They offered wisdom, empathy, and the hope we so desperately needed.
As Rowen’s journey unfolded, it became clear that her story—and the stories of so many others—deserved to be seen and heard. From that need for connection and advocacy, One Voice Arkansas was born.
Founded by two sisters, Audra Pettus and Brigette Waits-Garcia, One Voice Arkansas began as a personal mission and grew into a shared movement. Audra, inspired by her daughter’s resilience, became a fierce parent advocate. Brigette, moved by her family's experience, brought her heart for service and vision for community change. Together, they created a place where families like theirs would never feel alone again.
Today, One Voice Arkansas exists to walk alongside parents at the beginning of their journey, grandparents seeking clarity, and caregivers feeling overwhelmed by the unknown. Whether you're here for information, connection, or simply to be heard—you belong here.
Because every child deserves to be heard, and every voice deserves a chance to grow.
Our Board of Directors
Jeremy Garcia
Lennar
Josh Pettus
Pettus Workplace Solutions
Secretary
Lauren Callaway
PH Companies
Joyce Angeles
Community Volunteer
Sandy Miller
Community Volunteer
Dan Elrod
Parent Advocate
The Team
Audra Pettus
Co-Founder | President | Parent Advocate
Audra is the co-founder and a passionate parent advocate at One Voice Arkansas, where she leads with both heart and firsthand experience. When her youngest daughter, Rowen, was diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), Audra quickly discovered how isolating and overwhelming it can be to navigate a rare diagnosis. What began as a search for answers turned into a mission: to ensure no family in Arkansas feels alone in their journey.
Audra brings compassion, relatability, and fierce advocacy to her role, using her voice to raise awareness about CAS and the power of early intervention. A natural researcher and connector, she has built a strong community of families, therapists, and allies, sharing stories that spark hope and empower change.
In addition to her work with One Voice Arkansas, Audra is a commercial interior designer at Pettus Office Interiors, working on projects across Arkansas and Texas. She is also a proud wife to Josh and mother to three daughters—Paisley, Lennon, and Rowen. When she's not advocating or designing, you’ll find her in her garden, recharging in the fresh air and sunshine.
Brigette Waits-Garcia
Co-Founder | Board Secretary
Brigette Waits-Garcia is the co-founder of One Voice Arkansas, where her passion for advocacy meets her drive to create meaningful change. When her sister, Audra, began navigating the challenges of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) with her daughter, Brigette knew she couldn’t stand by—she had to stand with her. With a natural talent for leadership and a heart for service, Brigette joined forces with Audra to help amplify the voices of families walking a similar path.
Brigette brings strategic vision, unwavering dedication, and deep empathy to everything she does. She believes in the power of connection and storytelling to spark awareness, build community, and drive lasting impact. Her mission is simple: to ensure no family feels alone in their journey.
Professionally, Brigette serves as Chief Operating Officer of PH Companies, the parent company of PH Realty Team, PH Design Firm, PH Property Management, and Principle Home Buyer. A proud mother of three, a devoted genealogist, and a creative problem-solver, Brigette is fueled by her love for family, her commitment to service, and her belief that change begins with one voice—and grows stronger with many.