Washington State Hands & Voices

Mission

Washington State Hands & Voices (WAH&V) is dedicated to supporting families of children who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing without a bias around communication modes or methodology. We are a parent-driven, non-profit organization providing families with the resources, networks, and information they need to improve communication access and educational outcomes for their children.

Description

Every family with a child who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing has a different story to tell, yet we all share a common bond. At Washington State Hands & Voices, we understand the power of parents coming together to support and learn from one another. Families who are just beginning the journey can learn from veteran parents the challenges, as well as the joys, of raising a child who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing. For many parents, their only regret in the 'early years', is not connecting to other parents sooner! The Guide By Your Side (GBYS) Program provides emotional support and resources from trained Parent Guides to other families and to the systems that serve them from birth through age 21. We host social events for families to get together and have fun! Lastly, we offer online webinars, and in person workshops for families to gain knowledge and greater confidence to be their child's strongest advocate. We partner up with local groups to host workshops to provide information that parent seek to raise their deaf and hard of hearing child(ren). We work with families all over the state of Washington. Our board meetings are in Seattle.

Recognition

Thank you to WA Hands & Voices board members and a private donor!