Communication Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Communication Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing or CSDHH is a non profit organization that serves Guildford County and the surrounding area.  "Our goal," says Kelle Owens executive director of CSDHH "is to connect the person with the service."  According to Owens the organization sees itself as a liaison, helping to make current communication technologies available to their clients.  While the deaf and hard of hearing have the same abilities as everyone else, they do receive information differently. By facilitating communication for the deaf and hard of hearing, CSDHH seeks to empower their clients and help them to be independent.

To business owners and service providers, Owens would like to emphasize that deafness is a disability which needs to be accommodated.  "Just like the person in a wheelchair doesn't bring their own ramp, it is not the responsibility of the deaf person to bring someone to interpret for them."  

Owens' advice for conversing with the deaf is simple.  "Deaf people are approachable," she says "so don't be afraid to use your facial expressions or body language."

For those with a deeper interest, CSDHH offers sign language classes four times throughout the year for the community.