Special Programs & Projects

Reaching Out and Communicating with our Kids (ROCK)

This program provides direct services to families with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. Our staff conduct home visits with the intent to improve communication within the home, with ASL instruction being a key component. Services can be adapted to fit the needs of each family, within reason. This has, in the past, been funded by both Bank of Sierra and DHHSC fundraising. Currently funded by DHHSC on a limited basis. We continue to seek grant funds and welcome donations.

Merced Outreach Office (MOO)

This program provides community education to parents, teachers, service providers and more in Merced County. The focus is on how to parent, teach, or serve Deaf and hard of Hearing children aged 0-5. Presentations are given by staff.

Literacy Program

Our Fresno Headquarter office offers a Literacy Program, which is designed to increase independence and strengthen communication skills, with a focus on improving ASL/English skills for employment, academia, and life in general. The focus is on math and English skills, ASL tutoring for communication practice, academic challenges clients may be facing, budgeting, prioritizing tasks and responsibilities, time-management skills, and more. Each client’s needs are accommodated to ensure all clients are able to learn and understand through many different methods of communication devices and applications.  All clients are served on a one-on-one basis.  LINK

Tech Time for the Central Coast Outreach Office

Funded by Harden Foundation

Description: This program provides both monthly in-person workshops in our Central Coast Outreach office and online workshops through Zoom for Deaf and Hard of Hearing residents of Monterey County of all ages. Each month, we will focus on different technologies that will benefit their lives. Attendees will learn how to use apps responsibly, maximize their benefits, and avoid certain pitfalls. Topics include how to use Uber, order food through apps, find bus routes on their phones, protect their identity online, and use social media in ways that do not compromise their safety.

ASL Friends for the Merced Outreach Office

Funded by First 5 of Merced County

Description: This program ASL instruction to any Merced County children aged 0 to 5 and their parents. Classes are offered at varied locations and are open.

Deaf Strong for the South Valley Outreach Office

Funded by United Way of Tulare County

Description: This program provided monthly webinars on financial topics to Deaf attendees and a monthly support group for parents with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children.  Examples of topics included Learning to Budget Your Money, Discussion with Parents regarding Struggles and Achievements, The Pitfalls of Credit Debt, and How to Avoid Getting in Debt.