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Deaf And Hard of Hearing Information Center

Organizations

1. Academy of Dispensing Audiologists
   ADA provides valuable resources to the private practitioner in audiology and to other audiology professionals who have responsibility for the concerns of quality patient care and business operation. [More Information on Academy of Dispensing Audiologists]
   
   
2. Access Wireless
   Access Wireless is an online resource to help people with disabilities, seniors and their families to find a cell phone and service plan appropriate for their individual needs. CTIA-The Wireless Association and the wireless industry created AccessWireless.org to be an entry-level resource to learn about the ever-changing world of cell phones and wireless services. This site provides information about the accessibility of a variety of cell phones, including smartphones, and an explanation of how the wireless carriers meet the needs of their customers who have disabilities. The site also provides detailed explanations of the accessibility features available for people with hearing, vision, speech, cognitive, mobility, and neuromuscular disabilities. [More Information on Access Wireless]
   
   
3. Alps International
   "India's largest world class provider of Hearing Aids & Audiological equipment." [More Information on Alps International]
   
   
4. Alternative Communications Services
   Alternative Communication Services (ACS) provides the voice-to-text and sign language services nationally and internationally. ACS's methods include CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) and Captioning and Text Interpreting (TypeWell). Simply, ACS staff listen to an event (teleconference call, meeting, class, training session, seminar), transcribe what they hear, and send that transcribed text back to the customer with less than a two-second delay. CART and Captioning are verbatim services, where every word is transcribed at a minimum accuracy level of 98.5% accuracy. Text Interpreting (TypeWell) is the meaning-for-meaning transcription of English text, typically found in the educational environment. ACS provides that service on site and remotely. [More Information on Alternative Communications Services]
   
   
5. American Auditory Society
   "The primary aims of the Society are to increase knowledge and understanding of the ear, hearing and balance; disorders of the ear, hearing, and balance, and preventions of these disorders; and habilitation and rehabilitation of individuals with hearing and balance dysfunction. To attain these goals, the Society coordinates and disseminates information, particularly through the holding of regular meetings, and through publication of professional, scientific, educational, and informational media. Because of the multiple-disciplinary nature of the Society's membership, (audiology, otolaryngology, dispensing, engineering, psychoacoustics, etc.), the Society provides a formal platform for the interchange of information from allied professional fields." [More Information on American Auditory Society]
   
   
6. American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association
   ADARA's mission is to facilitate excellence in human service delivery with individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Membership includes rehabilitation personnel, program administrators and coordinators, mental health workers, educators, social workers, interpreters, students, hearing aid personnel, secretaries, lawyers, audiologists, speech therapists, physicians, psychologists, medical personnel, organizations and other specialists in the field. ADARA is also of interest to many parents and other people who work with people who are deaf or hard of hearing. [More Information on American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association]
   
   
7. American Society for Deaf Children
   ASDC was founded in 1967 as a parent-helping-parent organization. Today, ASDC is an national, independent non-profit organization whose purpose is providing support, encouragement, and information to families raising children who are deaf or hard of hearing. [More Information on American Society for Deaf Children]
   
   
8. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
   The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the professional, scientific, and credentialing association for more than 123,000 members and affiliates who are speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists in the United States and internationally. [More Information on American Speech-Language-Hearing Association]
   
   
9. American Tinnitus Association
   ATA is a nonprofit organization that offers prevention programs in schools, urges governmental and private organizations to support hearing conservation, funds the nation’s brightest researchers, and facilitates self-help groups around the country. [More Information on American Tinnitus Association]
   
   
10. Archive Reporting & Captioning Service, Inc.
    Archive Reporting & Captioning Service, Inc. offers Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART), the instantaneous translation of the spoken word into readable English text. Often called captioning, this text can be viewed on a notebook computer, television monitor, or large screen allowing everyone to read along and participate. CART is widely used in classrooms, counseling sessions, teleconferences, meetings, seminars, conferences, and trainings, and church services, and other settings. Also available is remote CART, requiring an Internet connection and a computer, and broadcast captioniong. [More Information on Archive Reporting & Captioning Service, Inc.]
    
    
11. Association of Medical Professionals With Hearing Losses (AMPHL)
    The Association of Medical Professionals With Hearing Losses provides information, promotes advocacy and mentorship, and creates a network for individuals with hearing loss interested in or working in health care fields. Some specific areas of interest include amplified, electronic, and visual stethoscopes; see-through surgical masks; and various methods for obtaining and assimilating the tremendous amount of information required of medical professionals (i.e. CART reporting, sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices). [More Information on Association of Medical Professionals With Hearing Losses (AMPHL) ]
    
    
12. AUDIENT Program
    AUDIENT is an affiliate of the Northwest Lions Foundation for Sight and Hearing. This nonprofit alliance brings together suppliers, hearing health care professionals, and related groups with the common goal of providing access to quality hearing health care for persons currently without adequate financial resources. AUDIENT provides people with low income access to hearing care providers and discounted hearing aids. [More Information on AUDIENT Program]
    
    
13. Auditory-Verbal Center, Inc.
    "The Auditory-Verbal Center (AVC) is a nonprofit center in Atlanta that teaches children who are mildly hearing impaired to profoundly deaf to listen and speak so that they can succeed in mainstream schools and experience lives without limitation. Founded in 1977, it is one of only two such centers in the United States. The center also has a full Audiological Practice that services infants, children, adults and their families." [More Information on Auditory-Verbal Center, Inc.]
    
    
14. Auditory-Verbal International, Inc.
    "The goal of the Auditory-Verbal approach is for children who are deaf or hard of hearing to grow up in typical learning and living environments and to become independent, participating citizens in mainstream society. The Auditory-Verbal philosophy supports the option for children with all degrees of hearing impairment to develop the ability to listen and to use verbal communication within their own family and community constellations." [More Information on Auditory-Verbal International, Inc.]
    
    
15. A-Z to Deafblindness
    This site is hosted by James Gallagher, who is deafblind himself. It offers information on, and links to, services and other resources for people who are blind, deaf and deafblind. [More Information on A-Z to Deafblindness]
    
    
16. Boys Town National Research Hospital
    Boys Town National Research Hospital provides treatment services for children with hearing loss and other communication disabilities. The hospital also conducts research on prevention and treatment of these disabilities. [More Information on Boys Town National Research Hospital]
    
    
17. Canadian Hearing Society
    Founded in 1940, the Canadian Hearing Society (CHS) offers a complete roster of essential services, including sign language interpreting; one-on-one language development for children who are deaf or hard of hearing using play as the medium of learning; employment consulting; sign language instruction; speech reading training; hearing testing; hearing aids; counselling; and a complete range of communication devices that assist and augment communication, including TTYs (text telephones), visual smoke detectors, baby monitors, signalling devices and alarm clocks. [More Information on Canadian Hearing Society]
    
    
18. CapTel Captioning Service
    The CapTel Captioning Service is offered by Ultratec Inc. (see separate entry) to provide realtime captioning of telephone conversations. Users of the CapTel Captioning Service must have a CapTel telephone (see separate entry), which is designed specifically to interact with the Captioning Service. CapTel Captioning Service subscribers place each call in the same way as dialing a traditional phone. As the user dials an outgoing call, the CapTel phone automatically connects to the Captioning Service. When the other party answers, the CapTel phone user hears everything that they say, just like a traditional call. Behind the scenes, an operator at the CapTel Captioning Service transcribes everything the other party says into written text. The written text appears on the display window built into the CapTel phone. The captions appear almost simultaneously with the spoken word, allowing the CapTel phone users to understand everything that is said either by hearing it or by reading it. Incoming calls must go through the Captioning Service to engage realtime captioning. The CapTel phone is available in a 2-line version that will automatically contact the CapTel Captioning Service for each incoming and outgoing call. The CapTel Captioning Service is available in 44 States and the District of Columbia. It is not available in Alaska, Delaware, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, and South Dakota. One free CapTel telephone is available to each active Federal employee who uses the Federal CapTel program. [More Information on CapTel Captioning Service]
    
    
19. Center for Hearing Loss Help
    The mission of the Center for Hearing Loss Help is to help people live successful and fulfilling lives in spite of their hearing losses by providing them with information, counsel, support, books and selected quality products that help them successfully deal with the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of living with hearing loss (deafness), tinnitus (and other phantom sounds), balance issues and other ear-related problems. [More Information on Center for Hearing Loss Help]
    
    
20. Chicago Hearing Society
    "To empower deaf, hard of hearing and hearing people to communicate with each other, thereby lessening the isolation which separates them." The Chicago Hearing Society provides information on a variety of events and services for people with hearing impairments in the Chicago area. [More Information on Chicago Hearing Society]
    
    
21. Closed Captioning Web
    This site offers an extensive list of captioning services and products, and it provides links to many Internet sites with further information on closed captioning. [More Information on Closed Captioning Web]
    
    
22. Cochlear Implant Assistance Program
    Colorado Neurological Institute’s Cochlear Implant Assistance Program provides cochlear implants at no charge to qualified candidates, through a cooperative effort of Cochlear Americas and Advanced Bionics. Although there is no charge for the device, patients are responsible for other costs associated with the procedure such as physician, hospital, anesthesiology, and audiological fees. The average out-of-pocket cost for candidates who receive an implant is approximately $15,000. Eligibility is open to permanent, legal U.S. residents from any state. [More Information on Cochlear Implant Assistance Program]
    
    
23. Cochlear Implant Association Inc.
    CIAI is a non-profit organization for cochlear implant recipients, their families, professionals, and other individuals interested in cochlear implants. The Association provides support and information and access to local support groups for adults and children who have cochlear implants, or who are interested in learning about cochlear implants. [More Information on Cochlear Implant Association Inc.]
    
    
24. Communication Service for the Deaf, Inc. (CSD)
    The Communication Service for the Deaf is a nonprofit agency serving the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community by providing quality services for the Deaf, ensuring public accessibility and increasing the awareness of their needs. The organization offers CSDIO, an Online Interpreting Service, as an alternative to "live, in-person" interpreters when they are not always available. CSDIO assures quality with minimum NAD Level 3 interpreters. [More Information on Communication Service for the Deaf, Inc. (CSD)]
    
    
25. Costa Rica Deaf Travel Corporation
    Costa Rica Deaf Travel Corporation is a travel agency that specializes in arranging trips and tours in Costa Rica for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Costa Rica Deaf Travel was founded in 1998 and it invites people with or without hearing disabilities to learn about Costa Rica's culture, language and biodiversity. They also offer programmed tour for seniors, families, and individual travelers. They have deaf tour guides in ASL, English sign language, German sign language and international sign language. [More Information on Costa Rica Deaf Travel Corporation]
    
    
26. Deaf Life
    A nonprofit magazine produced by deaf people for both deaf and hearing people. [More Information on Deaf Life]
    
    
27. deafCensus
    deafCensus provides an extensive list of Web resources relating to deaf and hard of hearing issues. The site requires free registration. [More Information on deafCensus]
    
    
28. DeafDigest
    Barry Strassler's Deaf Digest covers issues affecting the deaf comunity. It is a free weekly email newsletter. Some content from the current issue is available online. [More Information on DeafDigest]
    
    
29. Deafness/Hard of Hearing - about.com
    An about.com GuideSite that features links to information of interest to members of the deaf and hard of hearing communities. [More Information on Deafness/Hard of Hearing - about.com]
    
    
30. DEAFology 101
    A site about deaf culture by comedian Ken Glickman. It contains links to products and other information on deafness. [More Information on DEAFology 101]
    
    
31. Deaf-REACH
    Formerly the National Health Care Foundation for the Deaf, Inc., Deaf-REACH offers services for deaf and hearing impaired adults with mental illness in the Nation's capital. It provides housing for clients referred by either a hospital or the community. Case managers assess need and place members in group homes or apartments with supervision that varies from 24 hours per day to occasional drop-in support. Otis House, a program of Deaf-REACH, is a community residence for deaf adults with mental illness. Other services include an HIV prevention program; Stamps for Living, a work program; and a walk-in Community Service Center that provides counseling, information, referral, advocacy, and case management. [More Information on Deaf-REACH]
    
    
32. Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP), National Association of the Deaf
    The Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP)provides services designed to support and improve the academic achievement of students who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind. These services include a library of free-loan described and captioned educational media, a clearinghouse of information related to educational media access, a gateway to Internet resources related to accessibility, and a center for training and evaluation of any service provider desiring to appear on the DCMP's approved lists of description and captioning service providers. There are no user registration or service fees. The DCMP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and administered by the National Association of the Deaf. [More Information on Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP), National Association of the Deaf]
    
    
33. Dog Ears
    Dog Ears is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing specially trained dogs to be companions and to assist the hearing impaired. The carefully screened dogs are trained to alert their owners to everyday sounds that the hearing impaired cannot hear. [More Information on Dog Ears]
    
    
34. Elwyn
    "Elwyn is a non-profit human services organization recognized nationally and internationally as experts in the education and care of individuals with special challenges and disadvantages. Founded in 1852 to care for children with mental retardation, today’s Elwyn is a leading provider of services for people with special needs of all ages. While many of our services are available at our original 400-acre site in Media, PA, Elwyn also supports programs in schools, community sites, workplaces, and individual homes in Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and California." [More Information on Elwyn]
    
    
35. Finnish Federation of Hard of Hearing People
    FFHOH "represents the rights and interests and provides services for hard of hearing and deafened people and their families." This link is to the English page describing the organization. The rest of the site is in Finnish. [More Information on Finnish Federation of Hard of Hearing People]
    
    
36. Gallaudet Research Institute
    The research arm of Gallaudet University, GRI researchers gather and analyze data concerning the demographic and academic characteristics of deaf and hard of hearing populations, primarily to provide information needed by educators in the field. The site offers GRI's publications for sale and information about the Institutes's activities. [More Information on Gallaudet Research Institute]
    
    
37. Gallaudet University
    The world's only university for deaf and hard of hearing undergraduate students. Graduate degree programs and continuing education courses are available to deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing students. [More Information on Gallaudet University]
    
    
38. Gate Communications
    This non-profit Christian organization offers interpretation services for musical and other types of live performance, Christian or otherwise. [More Information on Gate Communications]
    
    
39. HandSpeak
    This site provides an online dictionary for American Sign Language and other visual languages. Signs are demonstrated using animated graphics. While this is a subscription site, there is a lot of free content. [More Information on HandSpeak]
    
    
40. Hearing Health
    A bimonthly magazine "designed for people who experience any degree of hearing loss, tinnitus, or other ear disorder." Hearing Health is published by the Deafness Research Foundation. [More Information on Hearing Health]
    
    
41. Hearing Loss
    The major publication of SHHH, Hearing Loss is a bimonthly journal containing regular columns and feature articles on a variety of topics of interest to people who live with hearing loss. [More Information on Hearing Loss]
    
    
42. Hearing Loss Association of America (formerly Self Help for Hard of Hearing People)
    The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) is a consumer organization representing people with hearing loss, focusing on accessibility, public policy, research, public awareness, and service delivery related to hearing loss on a national and global level. HLAA’s national support network includes an office in the Washington D.C. area, 14 state organizations, and 200 local chapters. The HLAA mission is to open the world of communication to people with hearing loss through information, education, advocacy, and support. HLAA provides information to consumers, policy makers, business professionals, and family members through its web site, a magazine (Hearing Loss), an online newsletter (ENews), and message boards. HLAA also brings consumers and policy makers together to learn about hearing accessibility issues at national and regional conventions. [More Information on Hearing Loss Association of America (formerly Self Help for Hard of Hearing People)]
    
    
43. HearingCenterOnline.com
    Sponsored by Audiotech, a hearing healthcare firm, HearingCenterOnline.com provides information on products for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The site also has a variety of other resources including a links page and a listing of books and videos. [More Information on HearingCenterOnline.com]
    
    
44. HearingExchange.com
    HearingExchange.com is an online community where people who are deaf or hard of hearing can come to exchange of ideas and information on hearing loss. It offers several information resources including an "Ask the Expert" forum where people can ask questions on such topics as special education and parenting; an events calendar with local and national conferences; and an area where users can post their resumes and potential employers can review them. The site also offers news items on new products and other issues concerning the deaf and hard of hearing community. [More Information on HearingExchange.com]
    
    
45. HearingLoop.org
    HearingLoop.org is a nonprofit informational website created and maintained by Hope College psychology professor David G. Myers and his assistant Kathryn Brownson. Myers is a hard of hearing person, the son of a hard of hearing mother who became completely deaf in her later life, and the author of a memoir of his experiences with hearing loss and hearing technologies - A Quiet World: Living with Hearing Loss (Yale University Press, 2000). Royalties from A Quiet World are assigned to a family foundation which, among other things, supports hearing assistance initiatives, including this web site. David Myers states that he has no financial interest, and never will, in any hearing assistance company. He is a well-wisher to all companies that enable hearing aid compatible assistive listening. [More Information on HearingLoop.org]
    
    
46. Hearnet
    The award winning site from H.E.A.R. (Hearing Education and Awareness for Rockers), a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the real dangers of repeated exposure to excessive noise levels. [More Information on Hearnet]
    
    
47. HIMSA Inc.
    [More Information on HIMSA Inc.]
    
    
48. HiP Magazine
    Formerly a regularly published magazine, the site now offers information benefitting deaf and hard of hearing children and their family members. [More Information on HiP Magazine]
    
    
49. Independent Hearing Aid Information
    From the Hearing Alliance of America and audiologist Dr. Robert Olsson, this site advertises itself as "the only fully independent hearing aid information site on the Internet." Full of useful information to aid in the buying decision for a hearing aid, as well as other useful information regarding hearing loss. [More Information on Independent Hearing Aid Information]
    
    
50. Karasch & Associates
    Karasch & Associates is a court reporting, captioning, and legal video firm providing accessibility for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. [More Information on Karasch & Associates]
    
    
51. Lake Drive School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children
    "Mainstream education is available for academically able students as well as itinerant services for hearing impaired students in other school districts." [More Information on Lake Drive School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children]
    
    
52. Let Them Hear Foundation
    The Let Them Hear Foundation offers a Cochlear Implant and Pediatric Hearing Aid Program providing services to patients in Northern California and around the world. The Foundation also offers a nationwide Insurance Advocacy Program to assist individuals appealing insurance denials. The Foundation was established in 2003 and is a registered 501(c)(3) corporation in the State of California. LetThemHear.org is funded by donations and patient fees. [More Information on Let Them Hear Foundation]
    
    
53. Lions Foundation of Canada
    Lions Foundation of Canada trains dog guides for Canadians who are blind or visually impaired, are deaf or hard of hearing, or have medically and physically limiting disabilities. All programs are offered at no charge to the client, but future care and maintenance become the responsibility of the dog guide recipient. [More Information on Lions Foundation of Canada]
    
    
54. Media Access Australia
    Media Access Australia (MAA) is a not-for-profit, public institution and Australia’s primary media access organization. It provides information about media access and develops and applies technological solutions to media access issues. This includes, but is not limited to, captioning and audio description and social media. MAA was formerly known as the Australian Caption Centre. The captioning and other operations of the former Australian Caption Centre were sold to Red Bee Media in 2006. MAA works in collaboration with consumer organizations, the Australian government and industry. [More Information on Media Access Australia]
    
    
55. Museum of Modern Art Access Programs
    The Museum of Modern Art has a variety of access programs and services for visitors with disabilties or special needs, including wheelchair access for exhibits and entrances; programs for students with disabilities; sign language-interpreted programs for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing; public telephones with TTY; MoMA Audio, with a variety of audio programs, including visual descriptions of exhibits for individuals with visual disabilities; a monthly lecture program (Art inSight) designed for visitors who are blind or have low vision; Touch Tours, which allow blind and partially sighted visitors to experience a selection of sculptures and design objects from the MoMA collection; Create·Ability, a monthly program for individuals with learning and developmental disabilities and their families; special events for seniors and homebound individuals; and Meet Me at MoMA, a monthly program for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their family members or care partners. [More Information on Museum of Modern Art Access Programs]
    
    
56. MyVideoInterpreter.com
    Communication Access Network, Inc., a nationwide provider of sign language interpreting services and real time captioning, provides point to point video and audio communications via the Internet. The deaf or hard of hearing consumer uses the site to access the next available interpreter. In a short time, a live certified sign language interpreter appears on the user's screen. [More Information on MyVideoInterpreter.com]
    
    
57. National Association of the Deaf
    The National Association of the Deaf (NAD), established in 1880, is the oldest and largest constituency organization safeguarding the accessibility and civil rights of 28 million deaf and hard of hearing Americans in education, employment, health care, and telecommunications. A private, non-profit organization, the NAD is a dynamic federation of 51 state association affiliates. Programs and activities include grassroots advocacy and empowerment, captioned media, certification of American Sign Language professionals; certification of sign language interpreters; deafness-related information and publications, legal assistance, policy development and research, public awareness, and youth leadership development. [More Information on National Association of the Deaf]
    
    
58. National Catholic Office for the Deaf
    NCOD is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to Pastoral Ministry with Deaf and Hard of Hearing persons. NCOD serves 5.7 million Deaf and Hard of Hearing Catholics through its pastoral ministry and through its special advocacy to bishops, pastors and families with Deaf children. NCOD seeks to raise the national consciousness concerning deaf and hard of hearing people’s position within the Catholic Church and to encourage deaf and hard of hearing persons to be active in ministry. [More Information on National Catholic Office for the Deaf]
    
    
59. National Cued Speech Association
    The National Cued Speech Association is a non-profit membership organization that promotes the effective use of Cued Speech. Programs include conferences, a journal, a cued speech bookstore (Cued Speech Discovery), a cued speech camp for children, and other educational and training activities. [More Information on National Cued Speech Association]
    
    
60. National Education for Assistance Dogs Services, Inc.
    The National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEADS) (also known as Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1976 to provide canine assistance for people who are deaf or have a disability. These assistance dogs become an extension of their handlers and bring freedom, physical autonomy and relief from social isolation to their human partners. NEADS has trained over 1,300 assistance dog teams since 1976. NEADS offers a wide spectrum of assistance dog services, including: canines for combat veterans; dogs for children with a physical disability; hearing dogs for people who are deaf or have hearing loss; service dogs for people with physical disabilities; dogs for the classroom, therapy and ministry; and dogs for children with autism. [More Information on National Education for Assistance Dogs Services, Inc.]
    
    
61. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders
    Part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the NIDCD conducts and supports biomedical and behavioral research and research training in normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech and language. The Institute also conducts and supports research and research training in disease prevention and health promotion and the special biomedical and behavioral problems associated with people having communication impairments and disorders. Don't forget to explore all of the information resources like the NIDCD Information Clearinghouse. [More Information on National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders]
    
    
62. National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology
    NTIT is a technical college for students that are deaf and hard of hearing. It is one of eight colleges within Rochester Institute of Technology. [More Information on National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology]
    
    
63. Phokeng in Education
    Phokeng in Education (PHiE) is an independent training and skills development service provider in South Africa which specializes in Braille studies, South African Sign Language (SASL) training, and information and communication technology (ICT) training for disabled youth, partially sighted, blind, hard of hearing and deaf persons in and around the rural villages of Rustenburg and the greater North West province of South Africa. [More Information on Phokeng in Education]
    
    
64. Postsecondary Education Programs Network
    PEPNet promotes opportunities for the four Regional Postsecondary Centers for Individuals who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing to coordinate and collaborate in creating effective and efficient technical assistance to postsecondary educational institutions, thereby providing access and accommodation to individuals who are deaf or hgard of hearing. PEPNets objectives are (1) to improve postsecondary access and transition opportunities for individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing; (2) to develop a national design for technical assistance and outreach service delivery to assure that postsecondary institutions and the students they serve will benefit from PEPNet's collaboration and coordination efforts; (3) to expand the knowledge and skill of postsecondary institutions related to the provision of educational support services for deaf and hard of hearing students; (4) to increase networking among postsecondary educational institutions; (5) to increase the postsecondary enrollment, retention, graduation and employment rates of students who are deaf and hard of hearing. [More Information on Postsecondary Education Programs Network]
    
    
65. Red Bee Media Limited
    With offices in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, China, and Singapore, Red Bee Media is a business providing subtitling, audio captioning, and sign language captioning for both live and recorded media, including live television, pre-recorded programs, and DVDs. [More Information on Red Bee Media Limited]
    
    
66. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Hearing Enhancement
    The RERC on Hearing Enhancement addresses accessibility problems of hard-of-hearing individuals by developing and evaluating cost-effective technological aids for the various groups of people with hearing loss according to their needs (e.g. people with moderate hearing losses, people with severe or profound hearing losses, young children, older adults and people with both vision and hearing loss). The RERC is funded by NIDRR. [More Information on Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Hearing Enhancement]
    
    
67. Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
    The Arkansas RRTC for Persons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (RT-31) conducts research and training designed to enhance the rehabilitation outcomes of persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. RT-31 provides training and technical assistance to state agencies, community-based programs, and consumers. Center faculty also maintain a continuing involvement in the preservice training of rehabilitation graduate students by overseeing two Masters of Science programs, supported by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). These two long-term training projects are designed to prepare graduates with knowledge and expertise in the provision of vocational rehabilitation/independent living skills training with deaf and hard of hearing persons. [More Information on Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing]
    
    
68. SIGNews
    SIGNews is a national monthly newspaper for members of the signing community. SIGNews publishes national and international news that may interest people who are deaf and hard of hearing as well as anyone who uses American Sign Language (ASL). Some content is available free on the Web site, but a subscription is required for full access. [More Information on SIGNews]
    
    
69. Silent Connection
    This small company offers T-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats with sign language themes. [More Information on Silent Connection]
    
    
70. Sorenson Video Relay Service
    Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®) empowers the deaf and hard-of-hearing community to communicate with both deaf and hearing family, friends or business contacts using video relay service. This free, 24-hour service empowers you place and receive calls with a professional American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter via a videophone and a high-speed internet connection. [More Information on Sorenson Video Relay Service]
    
    
71. Strada Inc.
    Strada provides transcription and captioning services, sign language interpreting, and distance learning solutions. [More Information on Strada Inc.]
    
    
72. TecEar
    TecEar promotes assistive listening technology and information about hearing loss that is educational and beneficial to businesses, organizations and hard of hearing individuals. [More Information on TecEar]
    
    
73. Technology Access Program, Gallaudet University
    Gallaudet University's Technology Access Program (TAP) is a research group focusing on technologies and services that eliminate communication barriers traditionally faced by deaf and hard of hearing people. [More Information on Technology Access Program, Gallaudet University]
    
    
74. Telecommunications for the Deaf, Inc.
    TDI was established in 1968 originally to promote further distribution of TTYs in the deaf community and to publish an annual national directory of TTY numbers. Today, it is an active national advocacy organization focusing its energies and resources to address equal access issues in telecommunications and media for four constituencies in deafness and hearing loss, specifically people who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, late-deafened, or deaf-blind. [More Information on Telecommunications for the Deaf, Inc.]
    
    
75. Tinnitus Today
    Tinnitus Today is the American Tinnitus Association's quarterly journal for patients and healthcare professionals. The magazine contains up-to-date medical and research news, feature articles on urgent tinnitus issues, questions and answers, self-help suggestions, and feedback from others with tinnitus. [More Information on Tinnitus Today]
    
    
76. Virtual VRI
    Virtual VRI (Video Remote Interpreting) provides sign language interpreters via the Internet. The interpreter listens to a speaker over the Internet, and then streams a sign language interpretation over the Web to the deaf user's computer. Virtual VRI requires the user to have a computer with a wired high speed internet connection and free Web conferencing software that must be downloaded before the session. [More Information on Virtual VRI]
    
    
77. WGBH - Services for People with Disabilities
    This page provides information on WGBH's closed captioning and descriptive video services. WGBH is a public television station that produces programming shown nationally and provides services to provide access to multimedia materials for people with hearing and visual impairments. [More Information on WGBH - Services for People with Disabilities]
    
    

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Conferences                                                         Return to top of page

Past Conferences                                                         Return to top of page

1. 2012 Biennial National Association of the Deaf Conference
   July 3, 2012 to July 7, 2012 in Louisville, Kentucky, United States
   The 51st Biennial National Association of the Deaf (NAD) will offer a variety of presentations, exhibits and other opportunities for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, their family members and friends, and others who work with the deaf community to interact and learn. NAD has partnered with the DeaFestival Kentucky, a gathering of visual and performing artists who celebrate the language, culture, diversity and arts within the deaf and hard of hearing community, as the DeaFestival Visual Artists Studio, with 50 artist booths, will be at the NAD Exhibit Hall. [More Information on 2012 Biennial National Association of the Deaf Conference]
   
   
2. Addressing the Needs of Students Labeled Deaf and Low Functioning, Deaf-Blind, or At-Risk Institute
   November 20, 2008 to November 22, 2008 in Houston, Texas, United States
   The Addressing the Needs of Students Labeled Deaf and Low Functioning, Deaf-Blind, or At-Risk Institute will focus on the unique needs of persons who are deaf or deaf/blind and have additional challenges to reaching their life goals. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from those who work directly with this population. Networking opportunities are available to exchange ideas, strategies and resources to acquire new skills. Target audiences include deaf education supervisors, educational diagnosticians, teachers of the deaf, and transition specialists. [More Information on Addressing the Needs of Students Labeled Deaf and Low Functioning, Deaf-Blind, or At-Risk Institute]
   
   
3. 2008 Annual Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention and Exhibition
   February 21, 2008 to February 23, 2008 in San Antonio, Texas, United States
   "Building Bridges through Communication" is the theme of the 52nd Annual Convention of the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association. More than 3000 speech-language pathologists and audiologists are expected to attend. TSHA's annual meetings provide members continuing educational activities and opportunities for professional growth and fellowship, and there will be an exhibition with over 200 vendors. The 2008 Annual Convention focuses on an exchange of ideas, information, and technology related to speech-language pathology, audiology, special education, and related disciplines. [More Information on 2008 Annual Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention and Exhibition]
   
   
4. 2007 CAL-ED/IMPACT Conference
   April 20, 2007 to April 22, 2007 in Burbank, California, United States
   The CAL-ED/IMPACT Conference will provide learning opportunities and networking forums for educators and parents of deaf or hard of hearing children from around California. The conference also targets school administrators, deaf and hard of hearing adults, psychologists, teacher training program staff, interpreters, audiologists, speech therapists and other support personnel. [More Information on 2007 CAL-ED/IMPACT Conference]
   
   
5. 2007 Virginia Association of the Deaf Conference
   July 17, 2007 to July 22, 2007 in Williamsburg, Virginia, United States
   VAD will hold its 55th biennial conference in Colonial Williamsburg. Workshops and exhibits will offer participants the latest information on deafness and products and services for the deaf. [More Information on 2007 Virginia Association of the Deaf Conference]
   
   
6. 2007 Michigan Early Hearing, Detection and Intervention Conference
   March 1, 2007 in Lansing, Michigan, United States
   The Early Hearing Conference is sponsored by the Michigan Department of Community Health, Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program. The conference brings together 200 parents, advocates, audiologists, private and public service providers and staff from various public health agencies, school districts, hospitals, community based associations and organizations. The conference will provide: 1) practical information used at the onset of early audiological intervention for infants with hearing loss; 2)an opportunity for parents to learn about early intervention services; and 3)increase the skill and knowledge base of childhood specialists who work with families of young children who are deaf/hard of hearing. [More Information on 2007 Michigan Early Hearing, Detection and Intervention Conference]
   
   
7. 2006 ASHA Convention: Building Bridges Through Communication
   November 16, 2006 to November 18, 2006 in Miami Beach, Florida, United States
   At the Convention, dedicated and knowledgeable professionals will present program sessions to contribute to the continuing education of audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists. Over the three days of the Convention, participants will have the chance to meet with colleagues and friends, gain new perspectives, solve current problems, and take home new ideas. Besides the educational programs, there are numerous special events and social functions starting with the ASHFoundation's 60th Anniversary celebration at the Opening General session followed by a live auction. [More Information on 2006 ASHA Convention: Building Bridges Through Communication]
   
   
8. National Cued Speech Association 2006 Annual Meeting
   July 20, 2006 to July 23, 2006 in Towson, Maryland, United States
   The National Cued Speech Association marks its 40th Anniversary celebration at its upcoming meeting, July 20-23, 2006 in Towson, Maryland. The program, with the theme "Celebrating Literacy, Excellence and Diversity," will focus on the latest research, emerging practices, and deaf perspectives. The family-centered conference will feature presentations by parents and professionals, a children's program, and events planned around special groups, such as fathers, deaf cue adults, signing cuers, grandparents, culminating with a 40th Anniversary Gala recognizing the significant accomplishments of people in the CS movement. [More Information on National Cued Speech Association 2006 Annual Meeting]
   
   
9. PEPNet 2004 Bienniel Conference
   April 21, 2004 to April 24, 2004 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
   The Postsecondary Education Programs Network (PEPNet) will hold its biennial conference April 21-24, 2004. The conference, "Planning for Success: Initiatives for Positive Outcomes," is sponsored by the four Regional Centers on Postsecondary Education for Individuals who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, which are funded by U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. This conference will provide opportunities for further professional development as well as for networking with peers who provide similar services. In addition to the full conference, several pre-conference half-day workshops will be scheduled. These workshops will provide a limited number of participants the opportunity for more intense training on specific topics. Poster sessions will also be included to showcase best practices and program models. The conference will bring together a variety of professionals including administrators, counselors, interpreters, tutors, and faculty members from disability services, student development, developmental studies and college-level courses, as well as interested secondary-level faculty and staff, adult service providers from rehabilitation agencies and centers for independent living, and many others. [More Information on PEPNet 2004 Bienniel Conference]
   
   
10. 2004 American Auditory Society Meeting
    March 7, 2004 to March 9, 2004 in Scottsdale, Arizona, United States
    The American Auditory Society will host its 2004 meeting at the La Posada Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona on March 7-9, 2004. Applications to present at the conference are due November 30, 2003. [More Information on 2004 American Auditory Society Meeting]
    
    
11. 2004 Michigan Early Interventionists/Parent Training Conference
    February 6, 2004 in Lansing, Michigan, United States
    The Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program of the Michigan Dept. of Community Health is hosting their annual Michigan Early Interventionists/Parent Training Conference on Friday, February 6, 2004 in Lansing, Michigan. This conference will train and educate professionals and parents from around the state on the latest information and skills needed to maintain and improve services to newborns and children 0-3 years of age with hearing loss. [More Information on 2004 Michigan Early Interventionists/Parent Training Conference]
    
    

News                                                         Return to top of page

1. Internet-based Video Calls Open Possibilities for Deaf People
   May 04, 2011
   A recent article on the Big Think website offers an enlightening discussion of how Web-based video calls have opened up a new mode of communication for people who are deaf and use sign language. The article also discusses Voice of IP (VoIP) telephone services that incorporate sign language capability as well as mobile applications. [More Information on Internet-based Video Calls Open Possibilities for Deaf People]
   
   
2. FCC Launches Survey on 911 Access for People with Disabilities
   Mar 23, 2011
   The Emergency Access Advisory Committee (EAAC) of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released a national on-line survey to determine the most effective and efficient technologies and methods by which people with disabilities may access Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1) emergency services systems. Among other things, the survey asks about accessing emergency services via video, text, and voice. The results of the survey will inform the EAAC as it develops recommendations for the FCC to draft rules to ensure that people with disabilities can access NG 9-1-1 services. The survey is available in English, Spanish and American Sign Language (ASL) video). It will be available until April 24, 2011. The link below is to the survey in English and ASL. The survey also is available in Spanish at http://fcc.eaac-es.sgizmo.com/s3 (please copy and paste the address into your browser). [More Information on FCC Launches Survey on 911 Access for People with Disabilities]
   
   
3. Project Endeavor Brings Web Access to Deaf and Hard of Hearing
   Dec 16, 2010
   On July 19 2010, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded Communication Services for the Deaf (CSD) a $14.9 million two-year contract that will fund Project Endeavor to address the barriers preventing deaf and hard of hearing individuals from accessing Internet-based services. Project Endeavor will achieve this goal through distributing laptop computers and providing broadband services at low or no cost, connecting low-income deaf and hard of hearing individuals to both broadband and technical assistance. The project will focus on deaf and hard of hearing job seekers and students transitioning from school to work. Qualified consumers can receive 12 months of Sprint unlimited 3G/4G service and a Dell 11Z netbook for one upfront payment of $230. Consumers that do not currently have broadband access may qualify for Project Endeavor if they are:
   • deaf or hard of hearing (with a bilateral hearing loss of 40db or greater)
   • at least 17 years of age
   • a U.S. Citizen or hold a valid Green Card
   • enrolled in any a selected group of public-assistance programs or qualify based on an income assessment.
   [More Information on Project Endeavor Brings Web Access to Deaf and Hard of Hearing]
   
   
4. AUDIENT Program Helps Low-Income People to Receive Hearing Care
   Jan 22, 2007
   If you cannot afford the hearing aid you need, the AUDIENT Program may be able to help you. For people whose income is two-and-a-half times the national poverty level - $24,500 for an individual, plus $8,500 for each additional family member, AUDIENT may be able to help you find affordable hearing care and discounted hearing aids. AUDIENT is a program of Northwest Hearing Care, an affiliate of the Northwest Lions Foundation for Sight and Hearing. [More Information on AUDIENT Program Helps Low-Income People to Receive Hearing Care]
   
   
5. Wanted: People with Disabilities to Discuss Emergency Preparedness
   Jun 08, 2006
   The American Red Cross is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and ORC Macro to develop educational materials on terrorism and emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. As part of this project, people with disabilities are invited to take part in on-line focus groups to discuss how emergency preparedness information may best address specific experiences and concerns. The eight focus groups will take place between June 27 and July 6. Each person who takes part in a group will receive $50.00.

   The educational materials will cover five major preparedness topics, including mass evacuation and evacuation planning for people with disabilities and their caregivers; emergency water and food supplies; shelter-in-place during chemical or radiation emergency; quarantine and isolation; and maintaining a healthy state of mind.

   Each focus group will consist of people in one of the following groups:

   • people with severe hearing impairments (June 27 and July 6)
   • caretakers of adults with severe cognitive disabilities (June 27 and July 6)
   • people with severe vision impairments (June 26 and June 29)
   • people with severe mobility disabilities (June 26 and June 29).

   All focus participants must be 18 years of age or older.

   The focus groups are being conducted over the Internet – you can participate from home, from work, or any place you have access to the Web. You will need a computer with a high-speed Internet connection over which you can receive and respond to questions from a moderator. People with visual disabilities, people with mobility disabilities and caregivers will need to be able to connect to the Internet and make a phone call at the same time because during part of the discussions, participants will interact with the moderator and the group by phone as well as by Internet. Focus groups with people with hearing disabilities will be on-line only. Each focus group will last approximately 90 minutes. Approximately 6 people will participate in each focus group.

   If you are interested, please contact Deb Allen at ORC Macro.
   Toll-Free Telephone: 877-539-9696 (V) (TTY users - please use your state relay service).
   E-mail: Debbie.L.Allen@orcmacro.com. [More Information on Wanted: People with Disabilities to Discuss Emergency Preparedness]
   
   

6. Extreme Makeover Incorporates Universal Design
   Jan 05, 2005
   On each episode of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition", a team of professional designers is given one week to transform an entire home - interior and exterior. In many episodes, the designers incorporate universal design concepts into their rebuild. In an October 2004 episode, the team went to work for the Vardon family in Detroit, Michigan. Judy and Larry Vardon, both of whom are deaf, have two sons, one of whom is blind and autistic. The "Extreme Makeover" team worked with HITEC Group International to incorportate innovative assistive technology solutions to facilitate communication between the family members and to make a safer environment for all of the Vardons. [More Information on Extreme Makeover Incorporates Universal Design]
   
   
7. Deaf History Month, 2004
   Mar 13, 2004
   Deaf History Month is celebrated from March 13 through April 15. This is a time to recognize deaf leaders and to learn about events important to the deaf community. For more information, you can check out the Captioned Media Program's newest easy-order E-Zine on Deaf History Month. [More Information on Deaf History Month, 2004]
   
   
8. FCC Requires Digital Wireless Telephones Be Accessible To Hearing Aids
   Nov 14, 2003
   In July 2003, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) modified the exemption for wireless phones under the Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1988 to require that digital wireless telephones be made accessible to people who use hearing aids. This ruling helps ensure that access to telecommunications services will be open to all users. Specifically, the decision mandates testing and labeling of cell phones, and requires manufacturers and providers to ensure that a portion of their products are compatible with hearing aids and cochlear implants. A technical working group of representatives of the hearing aid and wireless telecommunications industry has been established, and will work with the RERC on Telecommunications Access on research and field validation. The FCC will reassess the impact of the rule in July 2006. [More Information on FCC Requires Digital Wireless Telephones Be Accessible To Hearing Aids]
   
   
9. Questionnaire on Inter-disciplinary Work in the Area of Assistive Technology
   Apr 03, 2003
   Marion Hersh and Gloria Moss are conducting a pilot study on the extent to which inter-disciplinary research in the fields of assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering. Marion is a lecturer in the Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. She works on assistive technology for deaf, blind and deafblind people, as well as issues relating to technology and ethics. Gloria is a free-lance researcher, based in London, England. There is some evidence that the nature of assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering encourage interdisciplinary work. They are therefore using this questionnaire to investigate the extent to which interdisciplinary work does in fact take place in these fields, any barriers and good practice. This questionnaire is both confidential and anonymous. All data will be kept securely and only statistical data will be published. They would be very grateful if you could spend a few minutes answering the questionnaire. It should not take more than 20 minutes. Unfortunately they cannot offer a reward ­ just the knowledge that you will be contributing to better understanding of the research process in assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering and the development of good practice. They hope to present the preliminary results of this work at the AAATE Conference in Dublin and would therefore be particularly grateful for speedy replies as the deadline for paper submission is 18 April 2003. However, they hope to produce a longer version of this paper for journal publication and will therefore also welcome later replies. [More Information on Questionnaire on Inter-disciplinary Work in the Area of Assistive Technology]
   
   
10. The Winter Deaflympics have begun in Sundsvall, Sweden!
    Feb 28, 2003
    The Winter Deaflympic Games, the International Olympic Committee-sanctioned event for deaf athletes, opened on February 26 in Sundsvall, Sweden. Competition will continue through March 9. The 15th Winter Games of the Deaflympics will include Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing, Ice Hockey, and a new addition, Snowboarding. 300 athletes from 20 countries are participating. The official website for the 15th Winter Deaflympics is www.deaflympics.com. Daily e-mails of highlights and results will be available throughout the Games. If you would like to subscribe for the e-mails, please sign up at www.deaflympics.com now! [More Information on The Winter Deaflympics have begun in Sundsvall, Sweden!]
    
    
11. Sprint has announced the launch of a new Relay Service capability which uses Ultratec Enhanced Turbo Code ("E-Turbo")
    Apr 03, 2002
    Sprint has announced the launch of a new Relay Service capability which uses Ultratec Enhanced Turbo Code ("E-Turbo") to provide deaf users the functional equivalency of traditional voice calls by conveniently speeding dialing and connection. The user may dial their party directly and spend less time interfacing with Communications Assistants during call set-up. E-Turbo allows a Sprint Relay user to program and save customized calling preferences like long distance carrier, communications mode (TTY, Voice Carryover, Hearing Carryover), or preference for male or female Communication Assistant (CA). Using the powerful E-Turbo"Dial Through" feature, the TTY user simply presses the E-Turbo "Relay" key then enters the destination telephone number. This information is then automatically passed from the Ultratec-enabled TTY to the Sprint Relay platform. This replaces 'call set-up' with the CA making the relay call experience faster and more convenient. The CA receives a message on his/her terminal indicating that the caller is using E-Turbo with the appropriate TTY equipment. [More Information on Sprint has announced the launch of a new Relay Service capability which uses Ultratec Enhanced Turbo Code ("E-Turbo") ]
    
    
12. American Sign Language Videos Come to Public Libraries
    Feb 11, 2002
    Sixteen public libraries in ten states and the District of Columbia have recently acquired the ASL Access Video Collection. These once "hidden" resources -- 200 videos, including ASL lessons, classic literature, children's stories, biographies, history, inspirational, health, parenting, and original ASL literature titles -- open up a rich culture and language. The library receiving a donation of the ASL Access Video Collection markets the videos to the general public by providing a display and distributing free custom flyers offered by ASL Access. A free custom guidebook is also given to the library. These print materials indicate major sponsors and feature the name of the Deaf person (or group) to which the collection is dedicated. The ASL Access Video Collection meets American Library Association guidelines for library and information services for the American Deaf Community, and is favored by the White House Conference on Library and Information Services Task Force. How can you get these videos if they are not already available? The first step is your request. Let the library administrators know that ASL Access is here to help them. ASL Access is a fully volunteer, 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization facilitating ASL collection placements. When funding is sent to ASL Access (from a library, or a local corporate, agency, individual or foundation grant), they order the ASL videos from over 40 ASL vendors -- agencies, schools, ASL artists, publishers and distributors -- and have the videos shipped directly to the library. The $7700 cost for this "package" includes significant discounts from ASL vendors. In addition, they offer free custom publicity flyers and guidebooks, and answer questions about ASL resources. All ASL Access services are free. [More Information on American Sign Language Videos Come to Public Libraries]
    
    
13. Pontiac to Sponsor Hearing Health Programs at Auto Shows
    Feb 08, 2002
    Expanding on its current community outreach program for the deaf, the Pontiac-GMC division of General Motors Corporation has joined forces with the National Campaign for Hearing Health (NCHH) to establish a hearing health awareness program at eight major auto shows around the country. Attendees can stop at the NCHH display at the Pontiac-GMC information booth at the shows to receive free ear plugs, a hearing checklist and decibel chart, and a baby hearing checklist. The auto show schedule is: February 7-17, 2002: Chicago, IL February 13-18, 2002: San Diego, CA February 27-March 3, 2002 Dallas, TX March 2-10, 2002: Cleveland, OH March 6-10, 2002: Kansas City, MO March 9-17, 2002: Minneapolis, MN March 30-April 7, 2002: New York, NY April 24-April 28, 2002: Atlanta, GA [More Information on Pontiac to Sponsor Hearing Health Programs at Auto Shows]
    
    
14. SignTel., Inc. Announces Signing Video Clips "On Demand" for Internet Sites
    Nov 13, 2001
    SignTel, Inc. announced today a new service, bridging global communications between the hearing and the deaf. The Sign Language Video Clips service by SignTel enables any business or individual to purchase, for a nominal fee, video clips that sign desired sentences to visitors to web sites, or enable usage with material presentations such as Microsoft's Power Point. Webmasters, or web designers, can now include on their site any chosen sentences to appear in sign language on their web site, by submitting such selected text to SignTel's Signing Video Clips engine. The respective generated signs are sent back as e-mail with attached video clips ready for use. When used in presentations, users who acquire SignTel Video Clips can easily integrate them into any presentation material. SignTel Video Clips are fully "508 compatible", that is, they can be used by all groups, whether they are deaf, blind, deaf-blind or deaf low vision. The Clips include descriptive text portions that make them accessible for screen readers. There are two price tiers of this inexpensive service: $14.95 for any signed sentence for a business or individual and $9.95 if the purchasing entity is a not-for-profit organization. A reasonable length of sentence is considered not to exceed 24 words. "Our aim is to provide to as many web sites as possible, the capability of being Deaf friendly" said Raanan Liebermann, President and CEO of SignTel. "To enhance wide use of the service, SignTel also enables its Video Clips to be used with such products as Microsoft Power Point and in addition offers commercial incentives" added Dr. Liebermann. The incentives allow for an automatic referral fee paid by SignTel to any web site that previously purchased such service and from which a new order comes through a link to its web site (signtelinc.com). Under the incentive plan, any request for Signing Video Clips will automatically credit such linking web site with 15% of the collected amounts. Furthermore, any purchase of one or more Signtel Interpreter(s) orders received through such linking web sites will credit these sites with 3% of the collected amounts. SignTel, Inc. introduced the Signtel Interpreter earlier in August this year and also announced this month a consumer version of that product at a greatly reduced price of $499.95. The Signtel Interpreter translates speech and text to seamless sign language and is conceptually accurate, and recognizes over 30,000 words, including over 1000 idioms. The commercial version of the Signtel Interpreter is sold either as a software only product or mounted on a laptop. [More Information on SignTel., Inc. Announces Signing Video Clips "On Demand" for Internet Sites]
    
    
15. Cochlear Implant Presentation on Capitol Hill
    Oct 26, 2001
    The Deafness Research Foundation and the National Campaign for Hearing Health will make a presentation to the Congressional Health Caucus on Wednesday, October 31, 2001 from 12:00-1:30 p.m. in Room B339 of the Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC. The presentation/discussion will address the technology behind cochlear implants, as well as the pros and cons of implantation. Lunch will be served promptly at noon and the presentation follows. [More Information on Cochlear Implant Presentation on Capitol Hill]
    
    
16. IndyMac Bank has introduced a telephone banking system that is accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing
    Jun 15, 2001
    The new system enables customers with hearing disabilities to call 877-748-0002 daily (except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day) between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time via a modem link and TTY system to conduct all banking and mortgage loan transactions over the telephone in live chat mode. Specially trained service representatives communicate using a similar TTY system on site. [More Information on IndyMac Bank has introduced a telephone banking system that is accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing]
    
    
17. Captioned Media Program
    Aug 23, 2000
    The Captioned Media Program is a FREE video lending program funded by the U.S. Department of Education, and administered by the NAD (National Association of the Deaf). The program provides videos which are "open-captioned," meaning they will display the English text of the soundtrack with any TV/VCR. No special decoder-device is necessary. These videos are available to deaf or hard of hearing Americans, their parents, families, teachers, counselors, interpreters or others whose use of the collection would benefit a deaf or hard of hearing person. The captioned videos are delivered right to the user's door and may be kept up to one week before being returned. The program pays the postage both ways. Approximately 4,000 videos are available through the program's catalog touching on a wide variety of topics. Included are educational, special-interest, sign language videos - even classic movies! [More Information on Captioned Media Program]
    
    
18. Maryland Offers TTYs, Other Assistive Telephone Equipment to Residents in Need
    May 03, 2000
    The State of Maryland and Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT), allow SSI, SSDI, AFDC/TCA, or TEN4HA recipients who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf/blind, speech disabled or those having functional difficulty using the telephone to receive specialized telephone equipment and service they might otherwise be unable to afford. MAT provides free TTYs, amplified handsets, and other assistive devices to qualified applicants. This specialized equipment will permit customers to use the Maryland Relay to make telephone calls to family, friends, and businesses, or to call from one TTY to another TTY. Recipients of these equipment items will retain ownership of the devices so long as they continue to reside in Maryland. Highly specialized equipment items, such as Tele-Braille machines, will also be provided, based on evaluation of the recipient's unique needs by the Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MD TAP). In cooperation with the Bell Atlantic Tel-Life program, and the Department of Human Resources, MAT will also assist program recipients who cannot afford basic telephone installation costs to obtain telephone service. [More Information on Maryland Offers TTYs, Other Assistive Telephone Equipment to Residents in Need]
    
    
19. American Social Health Association Announces a New Web Site for TTY Users
    Apr 27, 2000
    The American Social Health Association (ASHA), which operates the CDC National STD & AIDS Hotlines (CDC NSTDAH), is pleased to announce a new Web site for TTY users. The web site allows individuals to view videotaped answers to the hotline's most frequently asked questions about HIV/AIDS in American Sign Language (ASL). "In health education we often talk about the importance of 'speaking the individual's language.' That is exactly what this web site does" asserts Chad Ludwig, NSTDAH TTY Supervisor. "ASL is the first language of the majority of Deaf Americans. English, which has different syntax and grammatical rules, is most often a secondary language and therefore is not the most effective means of communicating important messages," says Ludwig. Books, brochures and pamphlets written in English often miss the mark when it comes to providing clear and accurate HIV prevention information to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HOH). [More Information on American Social Health Association Announces a New Web Site for TTY Users]
    
    
20. Better Speech and Hearing Month
    Apr 07, 2000
    May 2000 is Better Speech and Hearing Month. For general information, please contact: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Phone: 1-800-638-8255 (General Information); 1-800-950-7701 EXT. 40 (Promotional Materials). [More Information on Better Speech and Hearing Month]
    
    
21. The American Social Health Association Announces Enhanced STD and AIDS Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
    Mar 01, 2000
    The American Social Health Association, (ASHA), announces enhanced STD and AIDS service for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. ASHA which for years has operated the National AIDS Hotline (CDC NAH) and the National STD Hotline (CDC NSTDH) separately under contract with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is pleased to have this opportunity to provide both bodies of information in one call. While the CDC NAH has had a dedicated TTY (teletype) service for the Deaf and hard-of- hearing since 1988 STD information has not been available via a national hotline service. "The lack of available information for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing has been a major hurdle in slowing infection rates within these communities," says Chad Ludwig, Senior Supervisor of the newly integrated TTY service at the CDC National STD & AIDS Hotlines. As a member of the Deaf community I am thrilled about this enhancement!" The CDC National AIDS Hotline provides service in English, Spanish and via TTY, and the CDC National STD Hotline offers information in English. This integration is part of a four-phased project which began in November of 1999 when the CDC NAH Spanish service integrated STD information and referrals into their scope of service. According to Lourdes Suarez, Manager of the CDC NAH Spanish and TTY services, as well as Interim Manager of the CDC NSTDH this dual approach affords callers a higher level of service. "The integration of information and referrals allows our Health Communication Specialists to provide more complete information to callers, by addressing sexual health in a more well-rounded fashion. HIV is an STD. Other STDs can impact the likelihood of becoming infected with HIV. Providing this information in a more holistic format just makes sense!" The last phases of the Hotline integration will take place in April and August of this year with enhancements to the Hotlines' e-mail system and integration of the two English Services. The CDC National STD and AIDS Hotlines provide free, confidential and anonymous information, education and referrals to callers with STD & AIDS related questions. The hotline's TTY service is staffed by Health Communication Specialists who are skilled in American Sigh Language, English and Spanish. The TTY service is available 10:00AM - 10:00PM (Eastern Time), Monday - Friday, including holidays. A taped message provides information about HIV and AIDS at all other times. ASHA operates the CDC National AIDS Hotline, the CDC National STD Hotline, and the CDC National Immunization Information Hotline under contract with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Founded in 1914, ASHA is a nonprofit organization dedicated solely to the prevention and control of all sexually transmitted diseases. Its mission is to stop STDs and their harmful consequences to individuals, families and communities. CDC National STD and AIDS Hotlines 1-800-243-7889 - TTY Service (10:00AM - 10:00PM, Monday - Friday) 1-800-344-7432 - Spanish Service (8:00AM - 2:00AM, 7 Days a Week) 1-800-227-8922 - English Service (8:00 AM - 11:00PM, Monday - Friday) 1-800-342-AIDS(2437) - English Service (24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week). For more information, contact: Tracey A. Adams Community Outreach & Promotions Manager Phone: (919) 361-8439 TTY: (919) 361-8484 Fax: (919) 361-4855 E-mail: traada@ashastd.org. [More Information on The American Social Health Association Announces Enhanced STD and AIDS Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing]
    
    
22. Info to Go
    Feb 04, 2000
    In case you haven't noticed, the National Information Center on Deafness (NICD) closed business on October 1, 1999. But don't despair, Info to Go has taken over the information aspect of the NICD at the same web address, http://www.gallaudet.edu/~nicd/. Info to Go is a service of the National Deaf Education Network and Clearinghouse at Gallaudet University. [More Information on Info to Go]
    
    
23. the open-captioned presentation of The Sixth Sense
    Jan 11, 2000
    Tripod Captioned Films is pleased to announce the open-captioned presentation of The Sixth Sense starring Bruce Willis on January 25 and 26, 2000 at the Loews Foundry in Washington, DC. For more information, please contact: Loews Foundry 1055 Thomas Jefferson Street Washington, DC 20007 Phone: 202/333-8643. [More Information on the open-captioned presentation of The Sixth Sense]
    
    
24. open-captioned presentation of Toy Story 2
    Dec 21, 1999
    Tripod Captioned Films is pleased to announce the open-captioned presentation of Toy Story 2 at Loews Foundry in Washington, DC on January 15 and 16, 2000. For more information, please contact: Loews Foundry 1055 Thomas Jefferson Street Washington, DC 20007 Phone: (202) 333-8643 [More Information on open-captioned presentation of Toy Story 2]
    
    
25. Online Career Fair for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Students
    Nov 12, 1999
    Looking for career information? How about networking opportunities? The Online Career Fair for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Students provides much needed real life information on the world of work as portrayed by deaf and hard of hearing people from various parts of the world. You can learn about their experiences, education, and careers and network with them. For more information, contact: Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf 615 Olof Hanson Drive, PO Box 308 Faribault, MN 55021-0308 Phone:1-800-657-3996 V/TTY;(507) 332-5400 V/TTY. Fax:(507) 332-5528. URL: http://www.msad.state.mn.us. E-mail: msad@msad.state.mn.us. [More Information on Online Career Fair for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Students]
    
    
26. TRIPOD Captioned Films
    Aug 03, 1999
    Are you a movie buff in Washington, D.C.? TRIPOD Captioned Films announces an open-captioned print of Universal Pictures "Notting Hill" showing August 4 and 5 at Loews Foundry in Georgetown, 1055 Thomas Jefferson Street, Washington, DC 20007; phone 202-333-8643. [More Information on TRIPOD Captioned Films]
    
    
27. 1999 Evelyn Glennie National Music Scholarship Award Competition
    Jun 29, 1999
    The Children's Hearing Institute announces the 1999 Evelyn Glennie National Music Scholarship Award Competition. The Evelyn Glennie National Music Scholarship Award Program was instituted to encourage the pursuit of instrumental music among children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The scholarships are based on accomplishments, interests, and involvement of the candidates in instrumental music. Candidates must be residents of the United States and have hearing losses of greater than 75 dB in their better ear. Deadline for scholarship applications is July 31, 1999. For applications and further information, contact: Ms. Melissa A. Willis Development Officer The Children's Hearing Institute 130 East 77th Street New York, NY 10021. Phone: 212/434-6675. Fax: 212/434-6680. E-mail: chimelissa@aol.com. Applications may also be downloaded directly from Evelyn Glennie's web site. [More Information on 1999 Evelyn Glennie National Music Scholarship Award Competition]
    
    

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1. Wanted : Video with embedded sign language ( Received Aug 01, 2009)
   We need videos with embedded sign language for deaf students with reading or learning disabilities. [More Information on Video with embedded sign language]
   
   
2. Wanted : Used closed caption decoder. ( Received Dec 31, 2004)
   If you have used one, please contact me via email. [More Information on Used closed caption decoder.]