Ableism & Microaggression with Christopher Samp (Online)
2023-09-30 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | MI
Online workshop using Zoom

J﻿oin us as Christopher shares important insights into the impacts of ableism, microagressions, and much more! Christopher’s life-long commitment to advocacy stems from his personal experiences as a Deaf person. He earned BS and MS degrees in Public Policy from RIT. Today, he works for the City of Detroit as director of the Office of Disability Affairs.
Tickets $25 – For Early Registration Discount. After September 8, price increases to $35
Cancellation policy – A 50% refund will be issued if cancelled before September 8. No refunds will be given after this date. Eventbrite fees will not be refunded.
This workshop will be delivered in ASL with no ASL to English (voiced) interpretation.
C﻿EUs Pending from RID and Michigan BCHS-LARA (seeking ethics and PPO ceu credits)

Senior Workshops
2023-10-05 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
These workshops are focused on topics for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Senior Citizens, but all ages are welcome! Workshops are on the first Thursday of the month from 10am-12pm at our new home, the Special Olympics Unified Sports and Inclusion Center, on 68th Street in Grand Rapids!
Please park on the West side of the building near the gyms.
Topics change each month. Follow our Facebook page to see more about this month’s topic!

Know Your Rights Workshop - Safety During Traffic Stops
2023-10-19 17:30 - 19:00 UTC | Special Olympics of Michigan building, 160 68th St SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Know Your Rights Workshop by the City of Grand Rapids

K﻿NOW YOUR RIGHTS WORKSHOP
D﻿uring this workshop, the City of Grand Rapids will teach you what your rights are during a traffic stop.
I﻿mportant information includes:
﻿ -Practical tips on how to react to traffic stops
﻿ -What you can and cannot do when pulled over
﻿ -How to ensure your safety and rights are protected at
T﻿his workshop is being hosted by D&HHS and City of Grand Rapids OPA to educate Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing communities. T﻿he workshop will begin at 5:30 and will last for about an hour with time for questions at the end.
*﻿AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER PROVIDED* If additional accommodations are needed, such as DeafBlind interpreters, specific seating arrangements, or other accessibility needs, please contact Erica Chapin by emailing community@deafhhs.org
Questions about the event? Please email Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at community@deafhhs.org

Tricks and Treats
2023-10-25 17:00 - 19:00 UTC | Special Olympics of Michigan Building (new office of D&HHS), 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Halloween Tricks and Treats

Join us for a fall night of Tricks and Treats! This event is for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing kids and families.
Wednesday, October 25th 5pm-7pm
Special Olympics of Michigan Building – Community Collaboration Center
160 68th St SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49548
This event is an indoor event at the Special Olympics of Michigan Building. There will be different games and activities, as well as fun fall treats and a chance for the kids to get candy! Costumes are welcome!
Interpreters will be available. Please register all who plan to attend, including adults.
Questions about the event? Please email Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at community@deafhhs.org

Signing Santa 2023
2023-12-16 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Special Olympics of Michigan Building, 160 68th St SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Holiday event with Signing Santa

JOIN US FOR A FUN DAY WITH SANTA!
A﻿ fun holiday event for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing children! There will be crafts, games, and take-aways for everyone. Every child will have a chance to Sign with Santa and receive a gift!
This event is FREE to attend. We ask that you please pre-register the children attending so that our elves know how many gifts to have ready!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Time & Date:
Saturday, December 16th, 2023 from 10am-1pm

Location:
1﻿60 68th St SW
G﻿rand Rapids, MI 49548

Questions about the event? Please email Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at echapin@deafhhs.org
Gift donations are being collected for the children at this event. Please contact Erica Chapin at echapin@deafhhs.org for more details on how to make a gift donation. Or, make a direct donation to support the event online at www.deafhhs.org/donate

Silent Weekend 2024 - "Building Bridges" - ASL full-immersion experience
2024-02-16 16:30 - 2024-02-18 12:30 UTC | YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin, 1095 North Briggs Road, Middleville, MI 49333, Middleville, MI, 49333, US
Voices off, CEU’s, Networking, Workshops, Mentoring, Mingling, Entertainment, etc. You do NOT want to miss out on a fantastic opportunity!

Voices off, CEU’s, Networking, Workshops, Mentoring, Mingling, Entertainment, etc. You do NOT want to miss out on a fantastic opportunity! Come with us to help bridge the gaps during this weekend-long event designed to help improve your skills!
Prices are : Early bird
Full weekend Interpreter includes overnight stay, workshops, meals, entertainment – $230
Full weekend Student/Deaf includes overnight stay, workshops, meals, entertainment – $160
Interpreter or Deaf Saturday – includes workshops, lunch, dinner, entertainment – $115
Saturday dinner and entertainment includes dinner and entertainment only – $30
Saturday entertainment (does NOT include dinner) with “SomeDeafGuy” – $15
Hoodie sweatshirt – $35
Early Bird – until January 19, 2024. After this the price increases by $20 plus fees per ticket.
Students must stay the full weekend.
VTRID is an approved RID CMP sponsor for Continuing Education Activities. These workshops are offered for up to 1.0 CEUs in the Professional Studies area at the “little/none” and “some” content knowledge level.
Cancellation Policy – 50% refund if cancelled by January 19, 2024. After January 19 no refund will be given. D&HHS reserves the right to cancel at any time with a full refund.
Meals are included with several (but not all) ticket options. Please be sure to select the correct ticket. If you have any questions or need special meals please email jkolhoff@deafhhs.org.

Interpreters and all audiences:
“Sign Olympics” with Brianna Beck
Back by popular demand! All participants will “compete” with other teams to be the first or the best team to complete all of the 10 stations. Each station will allow opportunity for improving skills in an individual and a team setting. Each team will be able to demonstrate appropriate classifier usage, facial expressions, body language, story-telling skills, signing skills, and teamwork. Judges will compare the skills of individuals and teams to help them improve their abilities and go for the GOLD! This is a combined activity for all levels and all attendees.
VTRID is an approved RID CMP sponsor for Continuing Education Activities. This workshop is offered for 0.2 Professional Studies CEUs at the “Some” Content Knowledge level. Participants will receive a certificate of attendance as proof of attendance. This workshop is appropriate for all signing skills Novice – Expert.
Interpreters:
“Medical Interpreting in the Deaf Space” with Teri Hedding
Teri Hedding is employed as an Assistant Professor teaching ASL at Moraine Valley Community College since 2017. Prior to her current job, she worked as a manager of Sinai Deaf Health at Sinai Health Systems for 17 years where she was responsible for the day-to-day management of interpreters and healthcare access serving the deaf and hard of hearing patients. She also worked in Department of Human Services/Office of Mental Health as a Statewide Coordinator of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services where she ensured that the delivery of mental health services to people who are deaf or hard of hearing met the high standards of quality and accessibility. Her work experience includes counseling, case management, crisis intervention, and advocacy. She received her master’s degree in mental health counseling from Gallaudet University in Washington, DC in 1993 and another master’s degree in sign language education, also from Gallaudet University in Summer 2022. She became a certified deaf interpreter (CDI) in December 2009 and has interpreted in various situations including medical, mental health, government, business, and legal settings. A fun fact about Ms. Hedding is that she loves to visit different forest preserves to hike.
In this workshop, Teri will guide you through bridging the gaps in medical interpreting. With a strong emphasis on classifiers and specialized terminology in the application of anatomy and physiology, she will help build a communication bridge and define Deaf space, the pain scale, and body systems such as the digestive system, cardiovascular system, and urinary system.
VTRID is an approved RID CMP sponsor for Continuing Education Activities. This workshop is offered for 0.6 Professional Studies CEUs at the “some” Content Knowledge level. Participants will receive a certificate of attendance as proof of attendance. This workshop is appropriate for signing skills Intermediate – Expert.
Students:
“ Staying Healthy on the Go.” with Sandria Graham. 1.5 hours
As you bridge the way from your personal life to your professional one, Community Nutrition Instructor, Sandria Graham from MI Health Matters – MSU Extension will discuss strategies you can use to stay on track! During this discussion, Sandy will demonstrate her knowledge and experience in her native language, American Sign Language! MSU Extension helps people improve their lives through an educational process that applies knowledge to critical issues, needs and opportunities. MI Health Matters is funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP. **This workshop is being provided to those choosing the Student/Deaf” option and will not be offering CEUs. It is appropriate for those with Novice – Expert signing skills. **
“Where to Start?” with Jessica Vickers. 1.5 hours
Recent graduates may find themselves in the unique position of having the information to perform the work of interpreting but lacking the skills and opportunities to start. Jessica will go over some exciting opportunities and great tips on how to stay sharp while you pursue the certifications you need and stay a motivated participant in your mentee/mentor relationship. **This workshop is being provided to those choosing the “Student/Deaf” option and will not be offering CEUs. It is appropriate for those with Novice – Expert signing skills. **
“ TBD” 1.5 hours
**This workshop is being provided to those choosing the “Student/Deaf” option and will not be offering CEUs. It is appropriate for those with Novice – Expert signing skills. **
“ TBD” 1.5 hours
**This workshop is being provided to those choosing the “Student/Deaf” option and will not be offering CEUs. It is appropriate for those with Novice – Expert signing skills. **
Interpreters and all audiences:
“Deaf Community Panel” with various Deaf Professionals.
In this workshop we will have discussions led by a team of Deaf and hearing moderators. We will discuss, from the panelist’s perspective, what is expected from both the hearing interpreters and Deaf consumers during a job. The moderators will present various scenarios to the panel, and they will discuss how to handle the situation appropriately from their perspective. Also, what should or could be done differently and if any corrective action should be taken.
VTRID is an approved RID CMP sponsor for Continuing Education Activities. This workshop is offered for 0.2 Professional Studies CEUs at the “some” Content Knowledge level. Participants will receive a certificate of attendance as proof of attendance. This workshop is appropriate for signing skills Intermediate – Expert.
MI LARA-BCHS – CEUs Pending for “Ethics”

FODHHS Workshop
2024-03-07 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
These workshops are available for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing to learn about different topics! Workshops are on the first Thursday of the month from 10am-12pm at our building, the Special Olympics Unified Sports and Inclusion Center, on 68th Street in Grand Rapids!
Please park on the East side of the building and follow signs to the Community Collaboration Center.
Topics change each month. Follow our Facebook page to see more about this month’s topic!

FODHHS Workshop
2024-05-02 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-06-06 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
These workshops are available for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing to learn about different topics! Workshops are on the first Thursday of the month from 10am-12pm at our building, the Special Olympics Unified Sports and Inclusion Center, on 68th Street in Grand Rapids!
Please park on the West side of the building and follow signs to our office.
Topics change each month. Follow our Facebook page to see more about this month’s topic!

Advancing Access & Equity: Serving DeafBlind Patients in Medical Settings
2024-06-21 08:00 - 13:00 UTC | Mary Free Bed Professional Building, 350 Lafayette Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
This event is from 2024 – To see information on our 2025 event, please go to https://deafhhs.org/event/what-to-do-when-your-patient-is-deafblind/

Advancing Access & Equity: Serving DeafBlind Patients in Medical Settings
Friday, June 21, 2024
8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Mary Free Bed Professional Building, 350 Lafayette Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Registration Fee: $90/ticket (includes a boxed lunch) – $90 is earlybird registration pricing. The ticket price will increase to $110 after 5/30/24. Registration closes 6/11/24.
*Registration is now closed*
(If you are registering for a ticket from an event sponsor, please contact Erica Chapin – echapin@deafhhs.org)
Presenter: Jill Gaus, ADN, DeafBlind Professional
The workshop will educate medical providers on DeafBlindness and how to effectively and respectfully serve patients so that they have equitable access to health. DeafBlind individuals face many barriers while receiving medical services. By educating medical professionals on how to best serve the community, we hope to minimize these barriers.
Learning Objectives
• Define DeafBlind and recognize the vast range of vision and hearing loss and how that impacts communication needs.
• Identify accommodation methods for DeafBlind and how to ensure effective communication using these methods.
• Recognize the legal and ethical obligations to provide effective communication to DeafBlind patients.
• Observe and practice appropriate ways to approach, communicate with, and provide sighted guide to DeafBlind patients.
• Address the roles and responsibilities of the different members of the care team.
Target Audience
Physicians, Residents/Fellows, Physician Assistants, Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, Nurses/APRNs, Psychologists, Social Workers, Dietitians (RD/DTR), Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists
CE Credit Information (Provided by Corewell Health East [Beaumont])
In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Beaumont Health, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, and Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired. Beaumont Health is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Medicine CME: Beaumont Health designates this live activity or enduring material for a maximum of 4.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Nursing CE: Beaumont Health designates this activity for a maximum of 4.5 ANCC contact hours. Nurses should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Pharmacy CE: Beaumont Health designates this activity for 4.5 ACPE contact hours for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
Social Work CE: As a Jointly Accredited Organization, Beaumont Health is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved under this program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. Social workers completing this course receive 4.5 continuing education credits.
Dietetic CPEU:

Cancellation Policy – 50% refund if cancelled by May 24, 2024. After May 24 no refund will be given. D&HHS reserves the right to cancel at any time with a full refund.
Questions?
Event Questions: Erica Chapin, echapin@deafhhs.org
CME Questions: Jessica Rice, Jessica.Rice@corewellhealth.org or CHEcme@corewellhealth.org

Kids Kamp 2024
2024-07-15 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | West Oakview Elementary School, 3880 Stuyvesant Avenue Northeast, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, US
Kids Kamp July 15-19, 2024

Join Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services for a week of fun, Monday, July 15 – Friday, July 19, 2024, from 9 am -12 pm each day! A full week focused on Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing kids.
Kids Kamp will be held at West Oakview Elementary School, located at 3880 Stuyvesant Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. *WEDNESDAY WILL BE HELD OFFSITE* On Wednesday we will be at the Rockford Equest Center located at 3777 Rector Ave NE, Rockford, MI 49341
Kamp is open to children ages 3-12 . (All participants must be potty trained and out of diapers/pull-ups)
Fun activities all week with different themes every day! Snacks are included each day.
Early Bird ticket until July 5 is $85 for the first child and $70 for each additional child. After July 5 the cost is $95 for the first child and $80 for each additional child.
Scholarships are available! Contact datwood@deafhhs.org for more information. Scholarship registration requires a code before you can sign up!
Registration closes July 12th at 5pm. Refunds available until registration closes. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN AFTER JULY 12TH AT 5 PM. The Eventbrite fees are non-refundable.
If you need additional accommodations, please contact Erica Chapin at 616-732-7358 or echapin@deafhhs.org. ASL Interpreters will be provided.

FODHHS Workshop/Social
2024-08-01 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-09-05 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-10-03 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-11-07 10:00 - 14:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
These workshops/socials are available for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing to learn about different topics! Workshops/Socials are on the first Thursday of the month from 10am-12pm at our building, the Special Olympics Unified Sports and Inclusion Center, on 68th Street in Grand Rapids!
Please park on the West side of the building and follow signs to our office.
Topics change each month. Follow our Facebook page to see more about this month’s topic!

Deaf Awareness Celebration 2024
2024-09-26 16:00 - 19:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
REGISTER FOR DEAF AWARENESS CELEBRATION HERE
Join us to celebrate Deaf Awareness!
Thursday, September 26, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548
Join us for an evening to celebrate and recognize Deaf community, culture, and the importance of accessibility.
There will be resource tables, games, and food. Socialize and celebrate with our community. REGISTER FOR THE EVENT
$5 recommended donation per attendee. Enter the amount to donate at registration or donate at the door.
ASL interpreters will be provided at resource tables. If you need additional accommodations, such as DeafBlind interpreters, specific seating arrangements, or other accessibility needs, please contact Erica Chapin by emailing echapin@deafhhs.org

Tricks and Treats 2024
2024-10-24 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Detroit) | Special Olympics of Michigan Building (new office of D&HHS), 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Halloween Tricks and Treats

Join us for a fall night of Tricks and Treats! This event is for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing kids and families.
Thursday, October 24th 5pm-7pm
Special Olympics of Michigan Building
160 68th St SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49548
This event is an indoor event at the Special Olympics of Michigan Building. There will be different games and activities, as well as fun fall treats and a chance for the kids to get candy! Costumes are welcome!
Interpreters will be available. Please register all who plan to attend, including adults.
Questions about the event? Please email Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at echapin@deafhhs.org

Voters' Rights and Registration Day
2024-10-30 10:00 - 15:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
A SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT TIME IS RECOMMENDED

Election day is almost here. Are you ready to vote? Join us at the Special Olympics Building at 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI for Voters’ Rights & Registration Day on October 30, 2024 from 10am-3pm.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is partnering with the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office Mobile Office and the Michigan Department of Civil Rights to get our community ready to vote! Schedule an appointment time during the event.

The Secretary of State (SOS) Mobile Office will be there to provide SOS services, including:Voter RegistrationNew Michigan IDsRenewing Expired Driver’s Licenses or IDsAll services require the appropriate personal documents and payment needed by SOS.

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights will have a table to share information about voter rights and other issues.

To schedule an appointment time, contact Erica by email at echapin@deafhhs.org, by telephone at 616-732-7358, or by videophone at 616-541-4469.

*Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services does not affiliate with or endorse any political party or candidate and will not tolerate any negative comments. *

Signing Santa 2024
2024-12-14 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Detroit) | Northview High School, 4451 Hunsberger Avenue Northeast, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, US
Holiday event with Signing Santa

JOIN US FOR A FUN DAY WITH SANTA!
A fun holiday event for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing children! There will be crafts, games, and take-aways for everyone. Every child will have a chance to Sign with Santa and receive a gift!
This event is FREE to attend. We ask that you please pre-register the children attending so that our elves know how many gifts to have ready!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Time & Date:
Saturday, December 14th, 2024 from 10am-1pm

Location:
Northview High School Cafeteria
4451 Hunsberger Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

Questions about the event? Please email Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at echapin@deafhhs.org
Gift donations are being collected for the children at this event. Please contact Erica Chapin at echapin@deafhhs.org for more details on how to make a gift donation. Or, make a direct donation to support the event online at www.deafhhs.org/donate

Silent Weekend 2025 - Hands Speak, Minds Connect - ASL immersion experience
2025-02-14 16:30 - 2025-02-16 12:30 (America/Detroit) | YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin, 1095 North Briggs Road, Middleville, MI 49333, Middleville, MI, 49333, US
Voices off, CEU’s, Networking, Workshops, Mentoring, Mingling, Entertainment, etc. You do NOT want to miss out on a fantastic opportunity!

Voices off, CEU’s, Networking, Workshops, Mentoring, Mingling, Entertainment, etc. You do NOT want to miss out on a fantastic opportunity! Come with us to help bridge the gaps during this weekend-long event designed to help improve your skills!
Prices are :
Full weekend Student/Deaf includes overnight stay, workshops, meals, entertainment – $180
Longsleeve t-shirt (color: forest green) – $20
Cancellation Policy – 50% refund if cancelled by January 24, 2025. After January 24 no refund will be given. D&HHS reserves the right to cancel at any time with a full refund.
Meals are included with several (but not all) ticket options. Please be sure to select the correct ticket. If you have any questions or need special meals please email jkolhoff@deafhhs.org.

Interpreters and all audiences:
“Sign Olympics” with Alex Bono and Natalie Bengston
Back by popular demand! All participants will “compete” with other teams to be the first or the best team to complete all of the stations. Each station will allow opportunity for improving skills in an individual and a team setting. Each team will be able to demonstrate appropriate classifier usage, facial expressions, body language, story-telling skills, signing skills, and teamwork. Judges will compare the skills of individuals and teams to help them improve their abilities and go for the GOLD! This is a combined activity for all levels and all attendees.
Interpreters:
TBD
Students:
Tanya Timmerman 1.5 hours
Deaf Slang and everything you wanted to ask a Deaf professional but never had the nerve to ask.
“ Does Your Ethical Compas Point Due North” with Cindy Wood 1.5 hours
The RID Code of Professional Conduct (CPC) is a static, black and white document that sets forth basic guidelines to mitigate harm for all stakeholders in our profession. During this workshop we will review each tenet and discuss the ever present socioemotional, and human factors that impact the ethical decisions interpreters make when on the job. Participants will receive two ethical dilemmas, be asked to identify specific tenet violations, evaluate their own ethical compass, and collaborate/ challenge one another to determine possible outcomes based on different decisions.
Interpreters and all audiences:
“Deaf Community Panel” with various Deaf Professionals.
In this workshop we will have discussions led by a team of Deaf and hearing moderators. We will discuss, from the panelist’s perspective, what is expected from both the hearing interpreters and Deaf consumers during a job. The moderators will present various scenarios to the panel, and they will discuss how to handle the situation appropriately from their perspective. Also, what should or could be done differently and if any corrective action should be taken.

Sugarbush Festival - ASL Interpreted Tour
2025-03-15 10:30 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, US
Blandford Nature Center

SUGARBUSH FESTIVAL INTERPRETED TOUR
Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services is partnering with Blandford Nature Center to provide an ASL-interpreted tour at their 2025 Sugarbush Festival. Tickets are LIMITED!
Tour includes:
-Maple sugar trail showing the maple syrup process
-Wildlife encounter with Blandford Wildlife Ambassadors
-Puppet show

Additional activities(these activities are not interpreted)
-Maple cotton candy
-Games and crafts
-Food truck
-Face paint & more

We look forward to seeing you there!

Time & Date:
Saturday, March 15th from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Location:
Blandford Nature Center
1715 Hillburn Ave NW
G rand Rapids, MI 49504

Questions about the event? Please email Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at echapin@deafhhs.org

FODHHS Workshop/Social
2025-06-10 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-08-12 10:00 - 14:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
These workshops/socials are available for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing to learn about different topics! Workshops/Socials are on the second Tuesday of the month from 10am-2pm at our building, the Special Olympics Unified Sports and Inclusion Center, on 68th Street in Grand Rapids!
Please park on the West side of the building and follow signs to our office.
Topics change each month. Follow our Facebook page to see more about this month’s topic!
https://www.facebook.com/deafhhs

D&HHS Board Meet and Greet
2025-06-25 15:30 - 17:30 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
We are pleased to invite D&HHS community members to join us for a meet and greet with the D&HHS Board of Directors and representatives from Innivee Strategies to discuss the ongoing Executive Director search process.

As shared previously, the D&HHS Board, in partnership with Innivee Strategies, is making excellent progress in identifying candidates to lead our organization into the future. The team is working diligently to find a dedicated leader who will:
-Advance D&HHS’s mission and values-Strengthen our vital community programs and services-Build partnerships that enhance our impact in the region-Champion the needs of those we serve

During this session, Innivee Strategies will join us virtually via Zoom to provide a brief overview of the search process, followed by an opportunity for community questions and discussion. This will also be a chance to meet and connect with your D&HHS Board members in person in an informal setting.

D&HHS deeply values the community’s interest, support, and engagement in this important search. We encourage you to attend this valuable opportunity to learn more about how our next leader will be selected and to share your thoughts about the future of our organization.

Event Details-Date: Wednesday, June 25th, 2025-Time: 3:30 PM-Location: The Community Collaboration Center in the Special Olympics Building – 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548-Format: In-person meet and greet with D&HHS Board; Innivee Strategies joining virtually via Zoom for Q&A session.

Accommodation requests and RSVP can be sent to Gail at board@deafhhs.org
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What to Do When Your Patient is DeafBlind
2025-06-27 08:30 - 12:30 UTC | Special Olympics of Michigan Building, 160 68th St SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
What to Do When Your Patient is DeafBlindPresenter: Isabell Florence, DeafBlind ProfessionalDate & Time: Friday, June 27 | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PMLocation: Special Olympics of Michigan Building – 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548
Registration Fee: $75/ticket – $75 is earlybird registration pricing. The ticket price will increase to $90 after 5/30/25. Registration closes 6/20/25.
REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED
Join us this DeafBlind Awareness month with professional Isabell Florence for an eye-opening and practical workshop designed to equip healthcare providers, support staff, and service professionals with the knowledge and tools to effectively serve patients who are DeafBlind. This interactive session will introduce participants to the definition and spectrum of DeafBlindness, offer immersive simulations to build empathy and awareness, and provide an overview of various communication modes and methods used within the DeafBlind community.
Attendees will also gain an understanding of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including legal responsibilities and best practices for providing appropriate accommodations. Whether you’re new to working with DeafBlind individuals or looking to deepen your competency, this workshop offers valuable insights to promote accessibility, respect, and effective care.
Target Audience
Physicians, Residents/Fellows, Physician Assistants, Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, Nurses/APRNs, Psychologists, Social Workers, Dietitians (RD/DTR), Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Emergency Services (Fire, EMT, Police)
Cancellation Policy – 50% refund if cancelled by May 30, 2025. After May 30 no refund will be given. D&HHS reserves the right to cancel at any time with a full refund.
Questions?
Event Questions: Erica Chapin, echapin@deafhhs.org

FODHHS Workshop/Social
2025-07-08 10:00 - 14:00 UTC | Binder Park Zoo, 7400 Division Dr, Battle Creek, MI 49014, Battle Creek, MI, 49014, US

Kids Kamp 2025
2025-07-21 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | West Oakview Elementary School, 3880 Stuyvesant Avenue Northeast, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, US
Kids Kamp July 21-25, 2025

Join Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services for a week of fun, Monday, July 21- Friday, July 25, 2024, from 9 am -12 pm each day! A full week focused on Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing kids.
Kids Kamp will be held at West Oakview Elementary School, located at 3880 Stuyvesant Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. *TUESDAY WILL BE HELD OFFSITE* On Tuesday we will be at the Rockford Equest Center located at 3777 Rector Ave NE, Rockford, MI 49341. Parents will need to pick up and drop off at the Equest Center for this day.
Kamp is open to children ages 3-12 . (All participants must be potty trained and out of diapers/pull-ups)
Fun activities all week with different themes every day! Snacks are included each day.
Early Bird ticket until July 5 is $85 for the first child and $70 for each additional child. After July 5 the cost is $95 for the first child and $80 for each additional child.
Discounts available for single day attendees. Contact echapin@deafhhs.org for options.
Scholarships are available! Contact datwood@deafhhs.org for more information. Scholarship registration requires a code before you can sign up!
Registration closes July 18th at 5pm. Refunds available until registration closes. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN AFTER JULY 18TH AT 5 PM. The Eventbrite fees are non-refundable.
If you need additional accommodations, please contact Erica Chapin at 616-732-7358 or echapin@deafhhs.org. ASL Interpreters will be provided.

D&HHS Board and Community Town Hall
2025-08-09 13:30 - 15:30 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
We’re excited to host a series of in-person events over the next few months, giving you the chance to connect with the D&HHS staff and Board of Directors.
As part of our search for a new Executive Director, D&HHS is partnering with the Deaf-owned consulting firm Innivee Strategies. These events are a chance to learn more about that process, share feedback and explore opportunities to serve on our Executive Board.

All events will be held at the Community Collaboration Center (CCC), which offers free parking. ASL and tactile interpreters will be available. The Community Collaboration Center is located within our building located at 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548.

Join us for a community Town Hall and another chance to learn about the Executive Director search and our work with Innivee Strategies

Coffee and Cocktails Fundraiser
2025-08-22 17:00 - 21:00 UTC | Book Nook and Java Shop, 8744 Ferry St, Montague, MI, 49437
Join us on Friday, August 22 from 5 PM – 9 PM at the Book Nook & Java Shop for the Coffee & Cocktails Fundraiser. Money raised will go to support Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services programs!
Book Nook & Java Shop
8744 Ferry St, Montague, MI 49437
There will be a menu of great food and drinks to choose from! See the flyer below and share it with others who want to support the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities. Questions? Contact Erica Chapin at echapin@deafhhs.org.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Grand Rapids Ballet at Meijer Gardens - ASL Interpreted Show
2025-08-26 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Avenue Northeast, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, US
Join us at Meijer Gardens for the interpreted GR Ballet. Tickets available for Deaf, DeafBlind, & Hard of Hearing and their families.

Join us for the Grand Rapids Ballet Performance at Meijer Gardens – ASL Interpreted Performance. This performance is part of the Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club.
August 26, 2025
Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater – 1000 East Beltline Ave NEGrand Rapids, MI 49525 – Parking Lot B
Showtime: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Gates open at 5:00pm – seats will be reserved on the lawn for D&HHS group. You may bring your lawn chair or blanket. Some chairs will be available for those who cannot bring their own.
Meijer Gardens will be providing an interpreter. Tickets reserved through D&HHS are free – These are meant for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing individuals and their families. Tickets must be reserved in advance and will be available for pick up the day of the event outside of the Amphitheater. If you register and are no longer able to attend, please let us know so that we can make the tickets available to others.
ASL Stage interpreters will be provided. If additional accommodations are needed, including DeafBlind interpreting, requests must be sent directly to Meijer Gardens Guest Relations Department by emailing hello@meijergardens.org for arrangements.
The Grand Rapids Ballet: Michigan’s only professional classical ballet company, Grand Rapids Ballet, returns to Meijer Gardens for an evening of world-class dance featuring a mixed-repertoire performance of classical and contemporary choreography. Among other works, the evening features Trey McIntyre’s Be Here Now, a celebration of San Francisco’s “Summer of Love,” featuring well-known songs from artists such as Janis Joplin, Steve Miller Band, Jefferson Airplane, and The Youngbloods.
You may bring your own food and drink into the venue, but all drinks must be sealed upon entry. NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL IS PREMITTED. Food and drink is also available for purchase at onsite concessions. Additional Meijer Gardens Amphitheater policies and FAQs can be found here – https://www.meijergardens.org/calendar/tuesday-evening-music-club/
Questions about the event? Please email Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at echapin@deafhhs.org
