ADA Advocacy and Education – DHHS advocates for the rights of all people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.  Presentations and in-service workshops increase education on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and our responsibility as a community to serve all citizens regardless of hearing impairment.

 

Client Assistance – Clients come in for assistance ranging from writing a letter to translating a letter they received. With the rise in new technology, many enter with questions of either where to find resources or how to use them. With the technology available in the office, DHHS is able to demonstrate and explain certain features and functions while also empowering them with access to technology that may not otherwise be available to them.

 

Information and Referral – DHHS supplies information and referrals to those interested about services and programs in the community that would be appropriate for their needs. Often, due to communication barriers, Deaf and Hard of Hearing people are not always aware of the many community services available to them. We also provide information to the public regarding all types of hearing loss and new technology that can overcome those barriers.

 

Newsletter – DHHS communicates important information and upcoming events through our bi-monthly newsletter to anyone interested in issues and topics affecting the lives people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

 

Sign Language Classes – DHHS offers beginning through advanced levels of American Sign Language (ASL) classes.  Qualified teachers, most of whom are Deaf, teach the classes. These classes are open to the public for anyone wishing to learn ASL or to improve their ASL skills.