Deaf and Hard of Hearing Guide Program
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Guide program focuses exclusively on the needs of families and their children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH). We are a diverse group of DHH adults with a wide range of experiences related to our individual hearing levels. We use different modes of communication and may or may not use technology.
Families and students can meet positive role models who share their own experiences growing up. DHH Guides act as unbiased* resources and help the family/student identify practical solutions for navigating some of the common challenges that Deaf/Hard of Hearing children may experience. Our interactions can range from addressing concerns parents may have to having a pleasant conversation with a child about anything they wish to share such as technology, accommodations, accessibility, or what has worked for us.
We are always connecting with families making sure they know what resources are available to them and hoping each DHH child can have a role model to look up to. So please feel free to reach out to me directly or connect with us through your parent guide.
*unbiased: showing no prejudice for or against something; impartial, neutral
Services: Our services are free to all Minnesota families with children who are DHH.
- Meeting with families in the home or their preferred location.
- Bringing donated gifts to the DHH child/youth at the initial in-person meeting
- Visiting students at the schools, meeting with them, and giving self-advocacy presentations relating to their own experience (i.e. getting accommodations in different setting) (at the request of teachers and parents)
- Connect with families at MNH&V Events - we are available at all MNH&V events!
- Attending events held by schools and other community organizations (at the request of teachers, parents, and the organization)
- Collaborating and connecting with other DHH professionals
- Presenting about our program to DHH communities and universities
- All DHH Guides receive bi-annual trainings to continue learning and improving services and support for families
If there is a service not listed here that you would like to see us provide, please contact Heidy, DHH Guide Supervisor.
Contact:
Heidy Nazario
DHH Guide Supervisor
Phone: (612) 297-6603 (TEXT ONLY)
Email: heidy.nazario@lssmn.org