Having a voice is important, even for those who can’t speak.
VocaliD, the organization that provides a new, more natural-sounding voice alternative, uses the voices of volunteers to create a custom, personalized voice for those who lack a voice of their own. Carlmont is hosting a “Voicedrive” and accepting donations from any students willing to participate.
According to Voicedrive sponsor Andy Ramroth, there are currently dozens of students in the process of donating their voices. Each donor chooses his own pace, and students are at various stages in the process. Sophie Srivastava has completed 1000 sentences, Sammi Owyang recorded 500, and Anna Singer finished 100.
Ramroth said, “We have made some progress. Students can definitely still sign up. Just come talk to me or Sarah Schisla, and we can get them started.”
The Carlmont Voicedrive aims to have participants record all 3500 sentences by early second semester, January or February.
Salma Sebt, who has recorded 500 sentences, said, “I have been recording the sentences in small bursts when I have time. It is a small thing that helps others greatly. It is important that the people who can’t speak know that people are willing to help. It’s a great program; kudos to Sarah Schisla for bringing it to Carlmont.”
Students have learned about the Voicedrive from many different sources, including through clubs and word of mouth.
Daisha Sherman, who has completed one hour, said, “I had never heard about VocaliD before. My friend told me about the Voicedrive, and I thought it was a really good cause.”
While donating a voice might seem strange, it is an opportunity to help out.
Sherman said, “We are told that they will be mixing our voices. It’s a little creepy to think that someone else will have my voice, but also really cool and interesting. What we are doing is important and it is good to spread awareness. I think that more people should do it.”
