FODHHS Workshop/Social
2025-06-10 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-08-12 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-09-09 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-10-14 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-12-09 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-03-10 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-04-14 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

Deaf Awareness Celebration 2025
2025-09-18 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 18, 2025 from 4 to 7 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

Grand Rapids Griffins Hockey Fundraiser
2025-10-17 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Van Andle Arena, 130 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
This Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Fundraiser is made possible by Griffins Hockey.
A portion of the proceeds from tickets purchased through D&HHS for the games below will directly support our programs and services.
The details for the games are available below. You can purchase tickets for the game you would like to attend by using the form here – https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/G2BteK0Zm7-QMMocuizZHw
All sales are final. Questions can be sent to Erica Chapin by emailing echapin@deafhhs.org or calling 616-732-7358

Friday, October 17, 2025 @ 7PM

Grand Rapids Griffins vs Manitoba Moose
Opening Night – $2 Beer & $2 Hot Dogs
Tickets are for Section 203 – $24/seat
*This is a general season game. All accommodation requests should be sent directly to the Grand Rapids Griffins*

Grand Rapids Griffins Hockey Fundraiser - Interpreted game
2025-10-17 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Van Andle Arena, 130 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
This Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Fundraiser is made possible by Griffins Hockey.
A portion of the proceeds from tickets purchased through D&HHS for the games below will directly support our programs and services.
The details for the games are available below. You can purchase tickets for the game you would like to attend by using the form here – https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/5V2c1haCOakKqjh6RvimGw
All sales are final. Questions can be sent to Erica Chapin by emailing echapin@deafhhs.org or calling 616-732-7358
Sunday, February 15, 2026 @ 4PM

Grand Rapids Griffins vs Texas Star
Sensory and Support Night – ASL Interpreted & Sensory Friendly Night
Tickets are for Section 203 – $24/seat

Tricks and Treats 2025
2025-10-30 18:00 - 20:00 (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 30th 6-8pm
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, so we can plan treats accordingly.
Questions about the event? Please email Alex Bono at abono@deafhhs.org

Executive Director Finalists - Community Event
2025-11-19 17:30 - 19:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Register for the Community Finalist Event – https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/38LKSZlC6Js9j-_56ImNwQ

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services in Michigan is thrilled to announce two finalists for its Executive Director role. The finalists were selected from a competitive pool of candidates and recommended by the D&HHS Executive Director Search Committee.
The D&HHS Board extends its gratitude to the search committee and to the staff and community members who contributed to this process for their dedication and support.
Community Finalist Event
The D&HHS community is invited to attend finalist presentations and a question-and-answer session on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the Community Collaboration Center within the Special Olympics Building, located at 160 68th St SW, Suite 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548.
Please register to help us prepare for the event – https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/38LKSZlC6Js9j-_56ImNwQ
ASL interpreters and CART captioning will be provided. Attendees will be invited to complete a survey to share feedback on each finalist’s presentation and responses.
Find more information about the finalist and the event on our website – https://deafhhs.org/executive-director-search/

Signing Santa 2025
2025-12-13 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 13th, 2025 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

FODHHS Workshop/Social - Copy
2026-01-13 10:00 - 14:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US

Community Welcome
2026-02-07 13:00 - 14:30 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Join Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services’ Board of Directors for a Community Welcome as we introduce Erica Chapin in her new role as Interim Executive Director.
Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 1 PM to 2:30 PM at the Community Collaboration Center within the Special Olympics Building, located at 160 68th St SW, Suite 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548.
The afternoon will include brief remarks from the Board, a short presentation from Erica and time for informal connection and conversation. This gathering is designed to foster relationship-building and community connection in a welcoming, accessible environment.
ASL interpreters will be provided. Additional accommodation needs, including DeafBllind interpreters, must be requested ahead of time. If you need accommodations, please contact Erica Chapin at echapin@deafhhs.org.
Please register to attend the event – https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/b-PWovaRb-72odukxOjicQ

FODHHS Workshop/Social - Copy - Copy
2026-02-10 10:00 - 14:00 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US

Blandford Sugarbush ASL Interpreted Tours
2026-03-14 11:00 - 15:00 UTC | Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, US
Join us for a day of fun and community at the Blandford Nature Center Sugarbush Festival! On Saturday, March 14th Blandford Nature Center will be celebrating the 56th year of Sugarbush located at 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504!

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is partnering with Blandford Nature Center to offer scheduled ASL interpreted tours, which include trail walks, wildlife presentations, sugaring demonstrations, interactive stations, and historical building tours.

ASL Interpreted Schedule:
First tour at 11AM – 12 PM; ADA Accessible, on paved trails
Wildlife Presentation at 1PM
Second tour at 2PM – 3PM, on nature trails

Register with promo code DHHS2026SB using the following link to visit the

Blandford Nature Center’s registration page: https://blandfordnaturecenter.doubleknot.com/event/dhhs-tickets-for-sugarbush-festival-2026/3137558

*Please note that limited tickets are available with the promo code*

For any questions, please contact Blandford Nature Center by email at info@blandfordnaturecenter.org or by calling 616-735-6240.

Silent Weekend 2026 - An ASL immersion experience
2026-04-17 16:30 - 2026-04-19 13:00 (America/Detroit) | YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin, 1095 North Briggs Road, Middleville, MI 49333, Middleville, MI, 49333, US
A fully immersive ASL experience for ITP students, graduates, and working interpreters, as well as interested Deaf community members!

Voices off, CEU’s, Networking, Workshops, Mentoring, Mingling, Entertainment, etc. You do NOT want to miss out on a fantastic opportunity! Come with us and catch your “Hands on Fire!” during this weekend-long event designed to help improve your skills!Prices are :
“Full weekend Student/Deaf” ticket includes overnight stay, workshops, meals, activities, performance. – $190 ($180 until March 20)
“Full weekend Interpreter” ticket includes overnight stay, workshops, meals, CEUs, activities, and performance. – $210 ($200 until March 20)
“Interpreter Saturday Only” no overnight stay. Ticket includes CEUs, lunch, dinner, activities and evening entertainment. – $100
“Interpreter Saturday Workshop Only” no overnight stay, no meals, no afternoon activities, no evening entertainment. Ticket includes CEUs (pending). – $60
“Saturday Dinner and Entertainment” ticket includes Saturday only dinner and activities, including performance by in-person Deaf performer, Sebi’Art – $30
Longsleeve, charcoal t-shirt, yellow lettering – “Hands on Fire” – $20 (must purchase before March 20, 2026!)
Cancellation Policy – 50% refund if cancelled by March 20, 2026. After March 20 no refund will be given. Eventbrite fees are non-refundable at any time. D&HHS reserves the right to cancel at any time with a full refund. Mode of communication will be in American Sign Language, for DeafBlind, mobility, and other accommodations, please email JKolhoff@deafhhs.org.
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.

Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services is an approved RID CMP Sponsor for continuing education activities. This Professional Studies program is offered for up to 1.3 CEUs at the Little to None Content Knowledge Level.
Interpreters and all audiences:
Friday: “Sign Olympics” with Alex Bono/D&HHS Team
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. (0.2 PS CEUs )
Interpreters:
Friday: “Understanding alcoholism: Maybe you just drink too much” with David N. Evans
Alcoholism is a fatal disease, killing Deaf people because they don’t have access to the nature of their malady nor the solution presented in Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and literature. But what do you believe is the difference between heavy or even habitual drinking (what might be called alcohol abuse) and alcoholism? The public and even the professional medical community confuse the two frequently. While this is not a topic Alcoholics Anonymous is concerned with, the distinction is quite important for interpreters in AA because what we believe will absolutely affect how we understand and convey messages while interpreting. Using AA’s own literature as our guide, we will learn about the history of alcoholism, the early days of AA’s beginnings along with key figures and dates via a skit (complete with cue cards and props!). We will explore AA’s definition of alcoholism and how it affects alcoholics differently from others. In order to ensure clarity and comprehension of concepts, quotations of AA literature will be presented in English text with the presentation and discussion taking place in ASL. (0.3 PS CEUs)
Saturday Morning: “Interpreting for Language Deprived Students in Educational Settings” – Anna Trupiano
This workshop critically examines why traditional educational interpreting models fall short in addressing the needs of language-deprived students in mainstream classrooms and presents an innovative, learner-centered alternative. Participants will learn to identify students experiencing language deprivation, become familiar with essential terminology related to interventions and linguistic development, explore foundational concepts of language acquisition, and engage with real-world examples that illustrate interpreting techniques designed to promote language growth within educational settings for students struggling with language deprivation. You may also learn to recognize language deprivation and when to request a team.(0.3 PS CEUs )
Saturday Afternoon: “Certified Deaf Interpreter and Hearing Interpreter Teams: Working with a CDI” – Stevie Naeyaert
Interpreting with a team has huge benefits to your consumers. Native sign language users teaming with native English users can make communication more smooth and clear. In this workshop participants will learn to understand when, how, and why a CDI team should be called and what to do once you’re part of that team. Participants will work with Certified Deaf Interpreter, Steive Nayaert, on how to prepare for teaming, what to expect, and gain exposure practicing working with a team. (0.3 PS CEUs)
Students: (Workshops without CEUs)
“Visual Vernacular in Your Work” – Sebastien Ianno
This workshop introduces participants to V V through movement, space, facial expression, and visual storytelling. Participants will explore key VV parameters, including body classifiers, placement, transitions, emotions, and visual rhythm. The workshop also includes a brief introduction to the history of Visual Vernacular, followed by interactive exercises focused on visual expression, mime, and storytelling through the body and face.
“What’s the Sign for That? Decoding Deaf Culture, Slang, and Creating Inclusive Conversations.” – Tanya Timmerman
Take a closer look at the fascinating interplay between Deaf culture and language in this engaging presentation. This session delves into Deaf slang, mouth morphemes, and their role in fostering language and cultural competence. Explore ‘Deaf Bing’ in depth and gain a deeper understanding of other cultural nuances, while gaining tools to create more inclusive conversations. The presentation will conclude with an anonymous Q&A, providing a safe space to ask the burning questions you’ve always wanted to ask a Deaf person! (No CEUs Offered)
“Navigating the Gap: Skill Building + Certification Readiness –Part one: Certification Readiness & Skill Building” – Cindy Wood
This workshop breaks down what national certification exams actually assess and how to prepare in a way that supports growth without burning out, how to choose workshops strategically instead of collecting random CEUs, and how to build a realistic language development plan for both receptive and expressive skills in ASL and English. The focus is on working smarter, not harder, so you can recognize practical tools and develop a clear sense of how to continue building skills long after the retreat ends. (No CEUs Offered)
“Navigating the Gap: Skill Building + Certification Readiness-Part two: Mentoring & Your Professional Game Plan” – Jamie Hunerjager
Just finished (or about to finish) your ITP and wondering what comes next? This workshop focuses on helping you use the GAP between graduation and certification with intention. You’ll learn how to find and work with a mentor who supports your growth, how to ask thoughtful questions that lead to useful, honest feedback, and how to use your silent retreat experience to strengthen your learning. Jamie will help you build a realistic professional development plan so you leave with clarity, direction, and confidence about your next steps. (No CEUs Offered)
Interpreters and all audiences:
Saturday evening Entertainment with Deaf performer, Sebastien Ianno of Sebi’Art. (No CEUs Offered)
“Sunday Morning Worship” (optional)
Join this optional Christian message with Deaf leader, Gilbert Branagan, as he leads in reflection, gratitude, and prayer. (No CEUs Offered)
Sunday Morning: “Deaf Community Panel” with various Deaf Professionals and certified interpreters.
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. (0.2 PS “Ethics” CEUs)

"Understanding Alcoholism: Maybe you just drink too much" - David N. Evans
2026-04-17 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Detroit) | Online using Zoom, 160 68th St SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Workshop for American Sign Language Interpreters

Alcoholism is a fatal disease, killing Deaf people because they don’t have access to the nature of their malady nor the solution presented in Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and literature. But what do you believe is the difference between heavy or even habitual drinking (what might be called alcohol abuse) and alcoholism? The public and even the professional medical community confuse the two frequently. While this is not a topic Alcoholics Anonymous is concerned with, the distinction is quite important for interpreters in AA because what we believe will absolutely affect how we understand and convey messages while interpreting. Using AA’s own literature as our guide, we will learn about the history of alcoholism, the early days of AA’s beginnings along with key figures and dates via a skit (complete with cue cards and props!). We will explore AA’s definition of alcoholism and how it affects alcoholics differently from others. In order to ensure clarity and comprehension of concepts, quotations of AA literature will be presented in English text with the presentation and discussion taking place in ASL.
Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services is an approved RID CMP Sponsor for continuing education activities. This Professional Studies program is offered for 0.3 CEUs at the Little to None Content Knowledge Level.
Cancellation Policy – 50% refund if cancelled by March 27, 2026. After March 27 no refund will be given. Eventbrite fees are non-refundable at any time. D&HHS reserves the right to cancel at any time with a full refund. Mode of communication will be in American Sign Language with no ASL to English interpreter (no voice interpreter), for other accommodations, please email JKolhoff@deafhhs.org.

*This workshop is being offered as a bonus timeslot for those who purchased a CEU (interpreter) ticket and is included with your Silent Weekend in-person event ticket. If you’ve purchased a Silent Weekend ticket, you do NOT need to purchase this as a separate workshop. Questions about which ticket to purchase? Email Jkolhoff@deafhhs.org

Empowerment of Touch: Providing Access to DeafBlind Patients
2026-06-26 08:30 - 12:30 UTC | 160 68th St SW, 160 68th Street SW Ste 140, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, US
Empowerment of Touch:
Providing Access to DeafBlind Patients
Presenter: Jill Gaus, DeafBlind ProfessionalDate & Time: Friday, June 26, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PMLocation: Special Olympics of Michigan Building – 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548
Registration Fee: $80/ticket – $80 is earlybird registration pricing. The ticket price will increase to $90 on 6/1/26. Registration closes 6/19/26.
REGISTER TODAY: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/bjuAkvjpdtuMkxGu2O0p-g
Join us during DeafBlind Awareness month for a thoughtful workshop with DeafBlind professional Jill Gaus. A 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 challenge participants to reconsider their approach when serving DeafBlind patients.
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.
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
Healthcare Professionals, Social Workers, Emergency Services (Fire, EMT, Police), Accommodations Staff, and any patient service roles!
Cancellation Policy – 50% refund if cancelled by June 1, 2026. After June 1, 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
