Paisley Pettus Thomson Brings Heart and Leadership to the One Voice Arkansas Junior Board

For many young leaders, advocacy begins with a personal story—and for Paisley Pettus Thomson, that story starts at home. A dedicated student at Little Rock Christian Academy, Paisley has watched her sister navigate the challenges of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). Her desire to help, support, and bring awareness to others facing the same struggles inspired her to join the One Voice Arkansas Junior Board.

Paisley’s reason for serving is simple yet powerful: “My sister has apraxia, and I want to help her get better.” That heartfelt motivation reflects the true spirit of One Voice Arkansas—empowering youth to transform compassion into action. Through her involvement, Paisley hopes to learn more about nonprofit leadership, event planning, and advocacy while helping create opportunities for families affected by CAS.

Despite being one of the youngest members of the board, Paisley already demonstrates a deep sense of empathy and community. She has volunteered at ACCESS, a local organization that provides educational and therapeutic services for children with special needs. Her hands-on experience working alongside professionals who help children overcome communication challenges has strengthened her commitment to service and inclusion.

Paisley brings with her a love for event planning, peer outreach, and a growing interest in fundraising and social media engagement. These skills align perfectly with the Junior Board’s mission to raise awareness, plan community events, and represent youth voices across Arkansas. Whether she’s brainstorming new ways to connect with families or supporting an event that brings children together, Paisley approaches every opportunity with energy and heart.

For One Voice Arkansas, leaders like Paisley remind us that advocacy is not limited by age—it’s powered by empathy, family, and a desire to make a difference. As she begins her journey on the Junior Board, Paisley hopes to not only help her sister but to ensure that every child with apraxia feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

In a world that often overlooks quiet voices, Paisley stands as a proud example of how love for one person can inspire change for many. Her story reflects the essence of One Voice Arkansas: when we lift one voice, we lift them all.