We're Stronger
Together
Cleft Strong Utah is a parent and patient support group serving families across Utah who are navigating life with cleft lip and palate. We exist to make sure no one walks this journey alone.
"Every smile has a story — and every story deserves to be celebrated."
Cleft Strong UtahOur mission: to connect, support, and empower every person touched by cleft lip and palate in Utah.
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Built by Families,
for Families
Cleft Strong Utah was founded in 2019 by parents who understood firsthand how isolating a cleft diagnosis can feel. When your child is born with a cleft lip or palate, the medical path ahead is complex — but the emotional journey can be even harder without a community around you.
We started as a small group of Utah families gathering to share experiences, compare notes on specialists, and simply be there for one another. What began as a handful of parents has grown into a statewide community supporting families from diagnosis through adulthood.
Today we host events, connect families across Utah, and advocate for visibility and awareness of the cleft community — because every smile really does have a story worth telling.
Community First
No parent or patient should navigate this journey alone. We prioritize real connection over online noise.
Celebrate Every Smile
We believe a cleft condition is not something to hide — it is part of a beautiful, unique story.
Accessible to All
Our community is free to join, free to attend, and welcoming to families at every stage of the journey.
How We Support
Our Community
From the first diagnosis to adulthood — we are here at every stage with real support, real connections, and real resources.
Peer Connection
We connect parents and patients who share similar experiences — because there is nothing more powerful than talking to someone who truly understands what you are going through.
Education & Resources
We curate and share the most relevant information on cleft care, specialists in Utah, speech therapy, surgical options, and the latest research so families can make informed decisions.
Community Events
From art exhibitions like the 100 Cleft Portraits Tour to local family meetups — we bring people together face to face to celebrate, connect, and heal together.
Awareness & Advocacy
We amplify the voices of the cleft community during Cleft Awareness Month and year-round — through social media, local events, and visibility campaigns like our signature t-shirts.
New Family Support
Hearing a prenatal or newborn cleft diagnosis can be overwhelming. We help new families find their footing — offering reassurance, perspective, and a warm community from day one.
Patient Empowerment
Cleft affects people for life. We support patients of all ages — children, teens, and adults — in building confidence, finding resources, and owning their story.
The Faces Behind
Cleft Strong Utah
Our leadership team is made up of parents, patients, and advocates who live this journey every day.
Founder / President
Founded Cleft Strong Utah in 2019 after personal experience navigating the cleft journey with a family member. Passionate about making sure every Utah family feels seen and supported.
Community Coordinator
Organizes gatherings, coordinates volunteers, and makes sure every event is welcoming to families at every stage of their journey.
Patient Advocate
An adult cleft patient who uses lived experience to advocate for visibility, share resources, and connect patients of all ages with the right support.
Organizations We Work With
We are grateful for the support of medical institutions and national organizations that share our commitment to the cleft community.
Ready to Join
Our Community?
Membership is free. No forms, no fees — just a welcoming community of families and patients who understand what you are going through. Reach out and let us know you are here.