Page Header: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services 2021 Year in Review. 5 black and white images

In 2021, we faced our second straight year colored by COVID-19.

For the entire 12 months of 2021, we worked within the confines of the pandemic. We adjusted programming, changed our procedures for visits to our office, had dozens and dozens and dozens of Zoom meetings and much more.

But, we didn’t just survive, we thrived. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services has been around for a quarter of a century now, and we didn’t make it this far by sitting back and letting life come at us. We’ve been an underdog for most of our existence, and we decided in 2021 that Covid was not going to stop us from living out our mission to provide equal communication access, education, and advocacy to the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing in pursuit of all life’s opportunities.

So, in the midst of the pandemic we started a new TV show! Hands On Health features our Nancy Piersma and Rowan O’Dougherty as hosts and each episode they bring in outside experts to talk about health topics of interest to the Deaf. Both Nancy and Rowan are native signers, and we provide interpretation for the guests who come on the show so that the programming is accessible for all who want to learn.

Thus far we have five episodes complete on such topics as COVID, the flu, HIV/AIDS, and lead poisoning, with more to come.

We continued to serve needs related to COVID, distributing communicator masks and holding two successful vaccination clinics for Deaf friends of D&HHS and their family members.

We were active in numerous other ways too: ASL classes online, a drive-through Signing Santa event, DEI&A (diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility) sessions for a class at Calvin University and employees at Mercantile Bank, an in-person summer Silent Celebration, a partnership with the Kent County Sheriff’s Office that helped Deaf teens understand what it’s like to be pulled over, and much, much more.

Three people seated talking with each other. A Certified Deaf Interpreter is in the right lower corner in a grey box
First Episode of Hands On Health - COVID-19
Three children in the backseat of a car opening gifts from santa
Children recieved gifts at our Signing Santa event
 

We also continued to help people navigate the medical system, and we worked with local and regional health authorities to have interpreters at their briefings. We offered expertise and advice on telehealth. We were there for people, just like we always have been and just like we always will.

We’re hoping that 2022 might allow us to return to some of the in-person activities we love. But, if not, we’ll still be here, ready, willing and able to work alongside the many people in West Michigan who depend on us.

Deb Atwood Signature

Deb Atwood, Executive Director, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
-on behalf of the staff, the board and all those we serve

Nurse giving vaccine into woman's arm
Deaf Community member gets their COVID-19 vaccine at the clinic held by D&HHS and KCHD
2021 At A Glance infographic reads: 191 youth served through inclusive and accessible events and learning experiences that provide socialization and language access. 3,947 jobs filled providing communication access to the community in medical, mental health, educational, legal, and other community settings. 1,324+ volunteer hours from volunteering at events to assisting in the office, volunteers allow our agency to do more in the community. 59 given direct advocacy services. Interpreter Supports: 40 mentees, 16 mentors, 35 mentorship program events, 57 workshop attendees. 141 students learning American Sign Language through our community classes and gaining language with tutoring opportunities. 16 assisted with hearing aids connecting individuals to resources that assist with the process and costs of obtaining new hearing aid devices. 500+ masks given communicator masks allow individuals to better communicate with others while remaining safe and protected.
Blue Box Graphic: "27 Counties Serviced"

This year has been a great one, thanks to the support of our community. Big opportunities lie ahead for 2022, and we are excited to have you join us for the adventure!

You can continue to support our organization and the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities by making a donation today.

Donate Now