Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DeafHHS) is a private 501(c)3 non-profit agency established in 1996. We provide interpreter services, education, information and advocacy to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. We also provide information and educational services to the hearing community on Deaf-related matters. We are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

DeafHHS is devoted to the concerns of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals and we pride ourselves on being fully committed to our mission statement:

We are here to empower individuals who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing to reach their full potential in society through the elimination of communication barriers.

Current news:

The Summer 2008 newsletter is out! Click here to read it.

DHHS is having a Spaghetti Dinner on Friday, October 17 from 6 - 9 p.m. Check out our flyer for more details!!

ASL I - IV classes start on September 8!! Register here!

Do you need a smoke detector in your home specifically designed for deaf and hard of hearing people? If you request one, the Grand Rapids Fire Department and the Red Cross will install one in your home at no cost. Contact DeafHHS at 616-732-7358 (v, TTY or VP) to pick it up at our office.

Employment Opportunity

We are continuing to grow at DHHS!! Please check out our job openings below.

Mental Health Case Manager

 Full-time position providing comprehensive mental health case management and supports coordination to Deaf and hard of hearing in the Grand Rapids area.

Duties include monitoring medication and psychiatric status of clients under Network 180, connecting clients to appropriate resources, scheduling/coordinating medical reviews, monitoring physical health and updating documentation in client files, group skills and workshops. Required to know ASL and deaf culture and must be able to show competency in documentation and diagnostics.

Benefits package includes salary consummerate with experience, flexible schedule and health insurance.

Application deadline: Open until filled

Send resume to Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, PO Box 68112, Grand Rapids , Michigan 49516-8112 or e-mail to kprins@deafhhs.org

Job Development and Placement Specialist

The Job Development and Placement Specialist assists deaf and hard of hearing persons referred through Michigan Rehabilitation Services with job seek skills, training, and job placement in the greater Grand Rapids area. Full-time position with benefits and mileage reimbursement. Salary commensurate with experience.

Duties:

• Intake meetings with clients to focus on attainable career goals
• Job seek skills training and workshops to get them job-ready
• Resume development, assistance with interviewing and applications, and post-employment follow-up
• Develop network base with employers to identify opportunities for individuals with disabilities and placement opportunities
• Conduct job search with clients in the field and meet with employers about benefits of hiring deaf and hard of hearing individuals
• Assist clients and employers with job coaching, accommodation needs, demonstrate accessibility technology, provide information the ADA, Work Opportunity Tax Credit, and ensure job retention.

Associates Degree or Bachelors Degree in Rehabilitation, Human Services, or Communications or equivalent to 2 years of experience preferred but not required. Background in ASL and/or deaf culture and human services required. Private driver’s license and reliable vehicle with insurance required.

Application deadline: Open until filled

Send resume to Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, PO Box 68112, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49516-8112 or e-mail to kprins@deafhhs.org.

Interpreted events:

Grand Valley Shakespeare Festival performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” on Thursday, October 2, 7:30 p.m., at the Grand Valley State University Allendale campus, Louis Armstrong Theatre. The interpreters will be Joy Anderson and Misti Ryefield. For more information,visit www.gvsu.edu/shakes.

General admission: $14; s eniors: $12; students: $6

Martha Burk, political psychologist and women’s equity expert, will speak on “The High Stakes in 2008: Issues, The Women's Vote, and You.” 
Wednesday, October 15, at 7 p.m., at the Eberhard Center, GVSU, 301 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids. The lecture is free and open to the public.
Sponsored by the West Michigan Women’s Studies Council. Interpreter: Roberta Schwartz.

Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus Winter Concert, S aturday, December 13, 7 p.m., at St. Cecilia Music Society, 24 Ransom, Grand Rapids. Interpreter is Joy Anderson. For more information, visit www.grcc.edu.

Ongoing events:

Fall ASL I - IV classes will start on September 8. Call us if you would like to register now or check out our flyer.

5:01 Club

Lipreading class