Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

Laura with Nashville Mayor Karl Dean

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing program services are designed to prevent the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs among deaf and hard of hearing individuals, from kindergarten through 12th grade. The Deaf program works with students onsite, whether in the schools or with their families in the home to teach them sign language. Improved communication through signing opens up new realms of understanding for the child and the parent.

Deaf youth are naturally at higher risk for drug and alcohol abuse because of their increased difficulties with learning, communicating, and isolation. One out of ten hearing people may become dependent on drugs and alcohol, whereas one out of seven deaf individuals may become dependent.

This program focuses on educating deaf youth by using a visual format that allows them to comprehend the dangers of drug and alcohol use through sign language, visual aids and role-playing. We work on improving language skills and the ability to express thoughts, feelings, and improve overall communication. This program also works with local deaf organizations to build a strong deaf community so youth can overcome the feelings of isolation.

Overview of Program Services

1. Alcohol and drug education and prevention in Davidson and Wilson County Public Schools.
2. Provide staff to the after school tutoring programs (such as in cooperation with the League for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and Brentwood Baptist Deaf Church held at the YMCA).
3. Works with families of the deaf and hard of hearing children to learn sign language improving communication in the home environment.
4. Participates in Camp Rise & Sign, a program of the League for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and BellSouth Pioneer Club.
5. Annual Trip to a University that offers services for the deaf and hard of hearing. Previous colleges include Gallaudet University, California State University Northridge, National Institute for the Deaf at Rochester University and Utah Valley State College.
6. Career Day (For deaf and hard of hearing youth) is offered every spring at the Downtown Library and is a collaborative effort with the Library's Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services and the League for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
7. Annual Gift Drive to support deaf and hard of hearing youth and their families in need during the holiday season.
8. Community networking with other agencies and professionals who provide services to the deaf and hard of hearing people.
9. Advocacy within the deaf community.
10. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Events

Funded by the State of Tennessee

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Events

Looking Ahead!

Career Day - February 26th, 2008 at the Downtown Library

Cal State University Trip

Annual University Trip - March 19th - 22nd, 2008 - National Technical Institute for the Deaf at RIT in Rochester, NY.

Camp Summer Sign - a program of Brentwood Baptist deaf Church, a program for deaf and hard of hearing youth and their siblings.

Deaf & Hard Of Hearing Program Staff

Laura Lekowicz, Program Director, MA, NCC
Director for Deaf & Hard Of Hearing Services

Be sure to check our Upcoming Events Page for our full listing.