Good Morning My Friends!
As we wrap up Deaf Awareness Month, I wanted to share resources you or someone you know may find valuable. We don't know what we don't know.
Generally, there are usually support agencies for nearly every community or need. I encourage everyone to keep looking and asking; you will find them!
Agencies I have personally worked with:
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS): DHHS is a community-based organization in West Michigan established in 1995. DHHS provides a range of services, including sign language interpreting, advocacy, education, and support for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Website: https://deafhhs.org/ Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
American Society for Deaf Children (ASDC): The American Society for Deaf Children (ASDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families. Founded in 1967, ASDC provides a range of resources, information, and networking opportunities to empower families and promote the optimal development of deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Website: https://deafchildren.org American Society for Deaf Children (ASDC)
Deaf Community Advocacy Network – DEAF C.A.N.! - Deaf Community Advocacy Network – DEAF C.A.N.! is a non-profit Organization established in 1981 to provide services to the thousands of Deaf and Hard of Hearing people living in southeastern Michigan. DEAF C.A.N.! offers direct client services to individuals and families, as well as community education and information for professional groups. Website: https://deafcan.org Deaf Can
CODA International: CODA International, short for “Children of Deaf Adults” International, is an organization that serves individuals who are hearing and have deaf parents or other family members. CODA International recognizes and supports the unique experiences and perspectives of CODAs, individuals who grow up in homes where American Sign Language (ASL) is commonly used, and deaf culture is an integral part of their lives. Website: https://www.coda-international.org/
But wait there’s more!
National Level Resources:
National Association of the Deaf (NAD): The NAD is the oldest and largest civil rights organization for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community in the U.S. They provide advocacy, information, and resources on various issues related to deafness. Website: https://www.nad.org/ National Association of the Deaf
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID): RID offers information and support for sign language interpreters, as well as resources for deaf individuals seeking interpreters for various settings. Website: https://www.rid.org/ Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc.
National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes (NDC): NDC provides resources and support to deaf individuals pursuing higher education and successful transitions to the workforce. Website: https://www.nationaldeafcenter.org/ National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes
Deaf Women United (DWU): DWU focuses on the empowerment of deaf women through education, advocacy, and networking. Website: https://dwu.org/
Gallaudet University: Gallaudet is a renowned university for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Their website offers various resources, including information on deaf culture, American Sign Language (ASL) resources, and research. Website: https://www.gallaudet.edu/ Gallaudet University
Hands & Voices: Hands & Voices is a non-profit organization that supports families and their children who are deaf or hard of hearing, regardless of communication mode or educational approach. Website: https://handsandvoices.org/ Hands & Voices
Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center: The Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center is a federally funded organization that focuses on improving the quality of education for deaf and hard-of-hearing students from birth through age 21. The center is named after Laurent Clerc, a renowned educator who played a crucial role in establishing the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States, the American School for the Deaf. Website: https://gallaudet.edu/clerc-center/ Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center (Clerc Center)
My friends, this isn't all of the resources...but it is a start. Do you have another agency that has helped you? Please recommend them in the comments!
This Week's Book Recommendation
Willie Horton: 23: Detroit's Own Willie the Wonder, the Tigers' First Black Great by Willie Horton and Kevin Allen
P.S. The paperback version of my book Mom Dad Not Hear: 30 Powerful Stories and Lessons about Leadership, Life, and Love from My Deaf Parents is on sale for the remainder of September for $13.99!
NTID is another great resource for deaf students seeking a higher education National Technical Institute for the Deaf