Breaking Down Barriers to Care: Know the Facts

The deaf and hard of hearing community is a cultural and linguistic minority with variations in the type and severity of hearing loss (Pertz). Researchers estimate that 35 million people in the United States identify as having some degree of hearing trouble, ranging from having a little trouble hearing to profound deafness (Galludet). Of the 35 million, an estimated 300,000-500,000 use American Sign Language (ASL) (Mitchell). Despite the large need for interpretation services, the United States only has about 16,000 ASL interpreters (Nimdzi).

Join our efforts to amplify the work of community-based organizations (CBOs) in the New England region supporting mental health and advancing substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery for those who are deaf/hard of hearing.

Celebrate innovation! In a "Round-Robin-style" of presentation, CBOs and local nonprofits in New England will showcase their goals, growth, outcomes, and visions for the future in their efforts to support the behavioral health needs of underserved populations.

Featured Organizations

• Greater Nashua Mental Health
• Mental Health Connecticut
• Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Who Should Attend?

• Federal Partners: Learn about a new and creative way to assist partners with engaging community-based organizations.

• State Leaders: Discover creative ways to engage nonprofits and connect programs with people.

• Philanthropic Partners: Explore CBOs/local nonprofits that might benefit from your investment in underserved communities.

• CBOs/Local Nonprofits: Understand how to showcase your work to potential funding partners, and access training and technical assistance.

• Community Members: Get inspired! Bring hope back to your communities, learn where to get mental health support services, and celebrate organizations dedicated to supporting the behavioral health needs of individuals and communities, with an emphasis on those historically underserved.

Note: This event will be supported by an ASL interpreter. Meeting materials will be presented in accordance with 508 compliance requirements. If additional supports are needed to ensure your participation, please let us know as a part of your registration. We will seek to support requested accommodations.

Learn more about the DIPS Model. This event is designed to increase the access, visibility, and viability of CBOs and local nonprofits in SAMHSA's Region 1.