All About Accessibility: Deaf Services

 

September is Deaf Awareness Month, and the International Week of the Deaf begins September 20, providing an opportunity to foster understanding, inclusivity, and communication for the Deaf community.

 

For more than 30 years, OOD has served Ohioans who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or hard of hearing through partnerships with community entities throughout the state, often referred to as Community Centers for the Deaf. OOD works with these partners to provide support and communication services, ensuring individuals have the information needed to fully integrate into employment and other activities.

 

In Fiscal Year 2022, OOD and partners served 1,719 Ohioans who were Deaf, DeafBlind, or hard of hearing. One of these individuals, Rae, has pioneered a path as a full-time, independent contractor helping DeafBlind clients find their voice. Watch a video about Rae to learn more about her journey.

 

Learn more about OOD services from a video in ASL. If you or someone you know would like to get started with OOD, please visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.

• Deaf, DeafBlind & Hard of Hearing Services Webpage: OOD and community partners offer support and communication services to Ohioans who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or hard of hearing as well as their families and communities.
• Searchable Database of Resources about Deafness, DeafBlindness, and Hearing Loss: OOD and the Community Centers for the Deaf partnered to create a searchable database of resources with 34 categories of information (e.g., Deaf Culture, Domestic Violence, Employment, Housing, Sign Language, Substance Use, and Youth Services).
• Communication Disability Law: Individuals with a medically diagnosed communication disability can register to notify law enforcement if pulled over.
• Communication Card: A communication card is available to help individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing and police officers communicate with each other.