Apraxia Awareness Day
Today, the Mayor was joined by the Valentine family to proclaim May 14th as Apraxia Awareness Day in Elkins.
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a very misunderstood and very challenging speech disorder that affects 1-in-1,000 children. Now going into its fourteenth year, Apraxia Awareness Day on May 14th aims to unite community members, children with childhood apraxia of speech, and their friends and family to be an unstoppable, united force advocating for children with childhood apraxia of speech.
Nikita is a volunteer with Apraxia Kids, the nation’s only 501(c)(3) dedicated to childhood apraxia of speech. This organization does many things here in West Virginia to try to raise awareness and understanding about childhood apraxia of speech. She is also the parent of a child diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), Abram. At just eight years old, Abram demonstrates remarkable determination, rising each day with the goal of improving his speech and communication. His perseverance and strength in the face of challenges reflect the heart of a true warrior.
Like many children with CAS, Abram is aware of the ways in which he is different. Recognition from our community would not only raise awareness of this rare condition, but would also instill in him a deep sense of pride, belonging, and encouragement. Such acknowledgment would affirm his hard work and remind him that his efforts are seen, valued, and celebrated.
The City of Elkins is proud to stand with the Valentine family to raise awareness for Childhood Apraxia of Speech and encourages all residents to learn more about this disorder and continue to increase public knowledge of CAS.
Pictured from left to right: David Valentine, Kyle Blankenship, Abram Valentine, Mayor Jerry Marco, Nikita Valentine, Roz Valentine (in the front), Hazel Weese and Tracey Valentine.
Apraxia Awareness Proclamation – May 14, 2026
City Hall News: Week of August 2, 2026
Elkins, W.Va. — August 1, 2026 — The City of Elkins thanks local community groups and residents for their support for our neighbors in Upshur and Lewis Counties. We are deeply grateful for their generosity. Elkins Water Department is Hiring! The City […]
Read More
Build a Career with Elkins Water Department – Water Technician Openings (Level I, II or III)
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 31, 2026 — The City of Elkins Water Distribution Department (Water Department) seeks a Water Technician I, II or III to help manage the municipal water system at the plant located at 192 High Street Extension. This job […]
Read More
Help Shape Elkins’ Future: Apply for Planning Commission Vacancy
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 27, 2026 — The City of Elkins seeks candidates to serve on its Planning Commission. The vacancy is for an unexpired term that ends on December 31, 2027. Full terms on this commission are for three years. The […]
Read MoreElkins City Council Approves FY 2027 Budget Revision Using Surplus Funds
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 23, 2026 — At its July 23 meeting, Elkins City Council approved the first budget revision for Fiscal Year 2027, reallocating an additional $531,594 in surplus funds left unspent from Fiscal Year 2026. Combined with the $686,183 in […]
Read More
Upshur and Lewis County Flooding: How to Help
ELKINS, W.Va. — July 22, 2026 — After yesterday’s storms, the City of Elkins has been receiving messages how Elkins and Randolph County residents can help with flood relief efforts. Immediate Needs Right now, the most urgent needs are non-perishable, high-energy snacks […]
Read More
Public Announcement from Randolph County OEM/911
Attention Randolph County Residents: Due to recent storms and heavy rainfall, Randolph County has experienced significant impacts. For power outages, contact your utility provider directly. There have been several reports of flooding in various areas of the county. While water levels seem […]
Read More