Ohio Hands & Voices

Our Mission

Hands & Voices is dedicated to supporting families with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing without a bias around communication modes or methodology. We’re a parent-driven, non-profit organization providing families with the resources, networks, and information they need to improve communication access and educational outcomes for their children. Our outreach activities, parent/professional collaboration, and advocacy efforts are focused on enabling Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children to reach their highest potential.

We began as a group of parents and professionals who were seeking change in the Deaf education system in Ohio.  This group worked together to raise interest among family members, audiologists, speech therapists, teachers, early intervention specialists, and other professionals across the state.  In 2009, we were honored to become an official chapter of Hands & Voices.  Since that time we have continued to raise awareness for our cause while increasing our membership, creating family events and supporting parents state-wide. 

Today, Ohio Hands & Voices is a network of parents, family members and professionals with a strong commitment to the deaf and hard of hearing education community.  We serve those who use American Sign Language, spoken English, total communication, cued speech, cochlear implants, hearing aids and/or no hearing technologies from Ohio (and the rest of the nation).  Ohio Hands & Voices is a safe place to explore options, get unbiased support, learn from one another and share common experiences.  We value diversity and honor the role of parents and family as the single greatest factor in raising a well-adjusted, successful child.