Deaf Access Services Inc.

Deaf Access Services Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Western New York, dedicated to facilitating communication access and community integration for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and hearing individuals.

History

Deaf Access Services Inc. evolved from Deaf Adult Services, established in 1983 by a group of volunteers committed to supporting the Deaf community. The organization changed its name to Deaf Access Services in 2014 to broaden its services to include children and families, reflecting a more inclusive mission[1].

Mission and Services

Deaf Access Services focuses on promoting communication access, awareness, and opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals within their communities. The organization offers a wide range of services, including:

• Case/Care Management: Providing case management services to support individuals in navigating various systems.
• Comprehensive Disability Related Employment Programs: Facilitating employment opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.
• Disability Awareness Training: Conducting training sessions to raise awareness and understanding of Deaf culture and accessibility needs.
• Sign Language Instruction: Offering American Sign Language classes for the community.
• Sign Language Interpretation Services: Providing sign language interpretation in various settings using qualified interpreters.
• Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART): Offering real-time transcription services.
• Video Remote Interpreting (VRI): Facilitating remote interpretation services, making it accessible for more individuals.
• Captioning Services: Providing customizable captioning solutions to ensure accessibility in media content[2][3].

Community Impact

Deaf Access Services plays a significant role in advocacy for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities, promoting equality and empowerment. It supports Deaf refugees and immigrants by collaborating with local resettlement agencies and fostering an inclusive environment. The organization's commitment to the community extends to providing resources and guidance for assistive technology, supporting individuals in accessing vital devices at reduced costs[3].

Governance and Cultural Focus

Deaf Access Services operates under a volunteer Board of Directors and employs a diverse staff of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and hearing individuals, ensuring a culturally sensitive and inclusive environment. The organization specializes in the language and cultural nuances of the Deaf community, making it a unique resource for communication access solutions in Western New York[1][3].