Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # California Hands & Voices Non-judgmental PARENT TO PARENT support that honorS each family’s unique journey ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://cahandsandvoices.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Our Journey with Progressive Hearing Loss: In-between Two Worlds](https://cahandsandvoices.org/our-journey-with-progressive-hearing-loss/) - by Amanda Case It is hard to believe that it has been 6 1/2 years since we first received our daughter’s diagnosis of hearing loss. I still remember the fear that washed over me, suddenly feeling unequipped to be her mom. I had never known a Deaf person, I didn’t know ASL, what do we - [Emergency Preparedness](https://cahandsandvoices.org/emergency-preparedness/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family with whatever journey you are on with your DHH child. #TogetherThursday this week is about emergency planning. What does that look like for your family? For your DHH child? Lets break it down in 1, 2, 3 There are general preparedness plans that - [Home made games](https://cahandsandvoices.org/home-made-games/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family on your journey you are on with your DHH child. As we round out a year with COVID-19, I wanted to put together a post to reflect how far we’ve come, and also highlight and celebrate you as families on #TogetherThursday. Accessibility - [Travel](https://cahandsandvoices.org/travel/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey, wherever that may take you. This week on #TogetherThursday we are promoting a parent (Thank you!!!!! Keep them coming!!) suggested topic: Travel Tips! What does travelling look like for you as a family with a DHH child? Here are some tips - [Art](https://cahandsandvoices.org/art/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support YOU and your family on your journey you are on with your DHH child. This week for #TogetherThursday we will be exploring various forms of Art. Art in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community is very important. I will not speak for them, as I myself - [Supporting DHH Children with Learning what is the Truth](https://cahandsandvoices.org/supporting-dhh-children-with-learning-what-is-the-truth/) - Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family as we all navigate our lives through wonderful and tough times. #TogetherThursday this week is highlighting something that is often overlooked for our DHH children: How do we support them in their journey to empower themselves with good information? For our youngest friends this - [Songs and Accessibility to Music](https://cahandsandvoices.org/songs-and-accessibility-to-music/) - Whatever path you choose with your family, know that Hands and Voices is here for you, as we continue to celebrate the month of October and the many years of Hands and Voices I leave you with this GREAT commercial about a family sharing a musical moment. Hello Families! We have discussed a lot about - [Sensory Integration](https://cahandsandvoices.org/sensory-integration/) - by Gwen Suennen, M.A. Have you ever wondered what enables our deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) child to attend/focus and perform in a certain way? One process which helps them is called "sensory integration", which is the neurologic ability of our brain to organize information we receive through our senses and make appropriate motor - [Opening Schools](https://cahandsandvoices.org/opening-schools/) - Hello Friends, #TogetherThursday will continue to share resources. As we think about what school may look like in the fall. I hope to share some resources that may be helpful to you and your family as you make decisions that are best for you, and that even if you feel that you may not have - [Textures](https://cahandsandvoices.org/textures/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support YOU and your family on your journey you are on with your DHH child. This week for #TogetherThursday we will be exploring textures. Children love exploring textures from an early age! However, did you know that children of all ages can explore different textures and fidgets! There - [Exercise/ Movement and Mindfulness](https://cahandsandvoices.org/exercise-movement-and-mindfulness/) - Hello Friends, Welcome back to another #TogetherThursday! In addition welcome back to school! Whether you have stayed with Distance Learning, gone hybrid, are in person, or decided to Pod, you are making the best choices you can for your family at this time. Lets all lift each other and share what is working.This week what - [Intersectionality](https://cahandsandvoices.org/intersectionality/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family with whatever journey you are on with your DHH child. #TogetherThursday this week is about Black History Month. As we are on this journey together, seeing others like yourself is important, this is especially true with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. There - [Physical Space work up](https://cahandsandvoices.org/physical-space-work-up/) - Hello Friends, Welcome back to another #TogetherThursday This week we are sharing resources on setting up a physical space and routines! Now that we are living in a digital world what kinds of things can be leveraged for our Deaf and Hard of Hearing children, especially when we are trying to be safe? How can we - [Literacy and Media](https://cahandsandvoices.org/literacy-and-media/) - Hello Friends, Welcome back to another #TogetherThursday This week we are sharing resources on literacy and media support. Now that we are living in a digital world where things have access at our fingertips, what kinds of things can be leveraged for our Deaf and Hard of Hearing children? Visuals: No matter the age or modality - [Sesame Street works for all ages](https://cahandsandvoices.org/sesame-street-works-for-all-ages/) - Hello Friends, #TogetherThursday will be sharing resources over the next few weeks about different topics to support you as parents. If you have a favorite resource or would like to see something covered please share! This week I wanted to highlight Sesame Street. Read me out (see what I did there...not “hear me out” :) ): - [SELPA letter](https://cahandsandvoices.org/selpa-letter/) - Dear Administrator, As we begin the discussion of what school looks like Post-COVID-19, we are proactively sharing anticipated accessibility barriers, in hopes that districts, SELPAs, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing students and their families can work together collaboratively to educate and find solutions. The California Hands & Voices Advocacy, Support, and Training (ASTra) program - [Call to Action - AB #598 Update](https://cahandsandvoices.org/call-to-action-ab-598-update/) - A HUGE thank you to Assemblymember Arambula and Senator Pan for the opportunity to provide public comment on Governor Newsom’s withdrawal of the children’s hearing aid program, the one he proposed as the alternative to AB 598, a bill that passed unanimously across the board. Take a quick listen to the testimony of Michelle Marciniak, - [Creating Narratives](https://cahandsandvoices.org/creating-narratives/) - Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family as we continue moving through Winter and moving into celebrations! #TogetherThursday this week is about Winter Traditions and the Narratives we discuss with our children. Information and traditions often get “passed down” through families. What kinds of stories are you building with your family - [Fall Traditions](https://cahandsandvoices.org/fall-traditions/) - Hands & Voices is here for you! We continue to celebrate the month of October and the many years of Hands & Voices and explore this week’s topic, please share your favorite Fall Activities with us! Hello Families! This week I wanted to discuss some great Fall activities that can be done with you and - [#TogetherThursday First Post](https://cahandsandvoices.org/togetherthursday-frist-post/) - Hello Friends! Welcome to #WeCanWednesday brought to you by #CaHandsVoices! This is Leslie, and I hope to share some small tips with you and hope that you can share some small moments with me. I love love love working with students and am excited to share some small things with you. I want to share - [Routines](https://cahandsandvoices.org/routines/) - Hello Friends! Welcome back to #WeCanWednesday brought to you by #CaHandsVoices! Two things for today: Thing one- Learning happens all the time! Even when you don't think its happening. Even when you least expect it. Your child is learning. From you, from watching, from their siblings, from models in their lives(and on the screens they're - [Time](https://cahandsandvoices.org/time/) - Hello Friends! Welcome to a new week of:::::::: #WeCanWednesday brought to you by #CaHandsVoices! Only one thing for today: TimeTime can be given freely but often time is limited. What is often important is not the amount of time that you and your child have, its about looking for small moments to share together, however brief. - [Games](https://cahandsandvoices.org/games/) - Hello Friends! Welcome to a new week of:::::::: #WeCanWednesday...on Thursday because this week has been packed and days are hard to keep track of....living that #ShelterinPlaceLife right....brought to you by #CaHandsVoices! Thing to Think About this Week: Games. What was your favorite game as a child? How do you want to share that with your own - [Connecting outside the Home](https://cahandsandvoices.org/connecting-outside-the-home/) - Hello Friends! Welcome to a new week of:::::::: #WeCanWednesday brought to you by #CaHandsVoices, on Thursday again because I swear I thought today was Wednesday, yesterday was a blur, apologies folks! Thing to Think About this Week: Connecting. How do you connect with each other? How do you connect with others outside your home right - [Celebrations](https://cahandsandvoices.org/celebrations/) - Hello Friends! Welcome to a new week of:::::::: #WeCanWednesday, which is officially changing to #TogetherThursdays brought to you by #CaHandsVoices, because I realized Wednesdays are not working.... Thing to Think About this Week: Celebrations. Holidays, Birthdays, Religious Events, Milestones. How are you marking this time with your family during Shelter in Place? How are you - [Current Events and Access/BLM](https://cahandsandvoices.org/current-events-and-access-blm/) - Hello Friends. This week for #TogetherThursday I wanted to discuss something a little different. In light of current events I wanted to bring something up regarding access and information regarding Deaf/Hard of Hearing children as a whole. Thus: Thing to Think about this Week- How and when do you begin to have uncomfortable conversations with - [Resources O.U.R. Project](https://cahandsandvoices.org/resources-o-u-r-project/) - Hello Friends, #TogetherThursday will continue to share resources over the next few weeks about different topics to support you as parents. If you have a favorite resource or would like to see something covered please share! This week I wanted to highlight internal H&V Resources for parents. More specifically I wanted to highlight support programs for - [Resources Kidpower](https://cahandsandvoices.org/resources-kidpower/) - Hello Friends, #TogetherThursday will continue to share resources. As COVID continues to dominate the headlines and many re-openings are paused and schools are in the throws of discussions about how, where and when to re-open: How are you having these conversations with your DHH children? This week I wanted to highlight KidPower: Kid Power is - [Empowerment in Language](https://cahandsandvoices.org/empowerment-in-language/) - Hello Friends, Welcome back to another #TogetherThursday This week we are sharing resources on multilingual support. How can you support your family with communicating with your Deaf/Hard of Hearing child? What things should you take into consideration? Are two (or more?) languages ok? Verbal or signed? What does this look like when we’re talking about - [Social Media](https://cahandsandvoices.org/social-media-2/) - Welcome back to another #TogetherThursday! Today we’re going to feature social media, while we share on social media(haha). I wanted to share something that I’ve learned since we’ve all been spending more time online and connecting with others through online platforms. There is something called “Doomscrolling” or “Doomsurfing". What does it mean briefly? It means - [Crafting](https://cahandsandvoices.org/crafting/) - Hello Friends, Welcome back to another #TogetherThursday! Today we’re going to discuss non screen time....I know you’re on your screen right now....its ok! I promise! Something that has been increasingly important during our Distance Learning and internet time, as well as staying connected to friends and family near and far is the screen. I saw - [Tracking your Child](https://cahandsandvoices.org/tracking-your-child/) - Hello Friends, Welcome again to #TogetherThursday! Today’s topic as we are all mostly back at school in one way or another and I know its on everyone’s mind: How do I know my child is on track????? Between Zoom, Microsoft teams, Seesaw, Google Classroom, Pearslides, EdPuzzle, Class Dojo and the millions of other digital tools - [Creative Problem Solving](https://cahandsandvoices.org/creative-problem-solving/) - Hello Friends, Welcome to this week’s #TogetherThursday! This week’s topic is about creative solutions. Have you ever looked at a situation or thought about how something was definitely not going to work out and suddenly someone or something changed slightly and it was the best time of your life or exactly the solution to make - [Hands & Voices Plus Deaf Awareness](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hands-voices-plus-deaf-awareness/) - How are you and your family celebrating big and small this #DeafAwareness season? Its also #CAH&V ‘s Birthday! So there’s lots of celebration to be had! Hello Friends, Last week was such a whirlwind. Apologies on missing last week’s post! This week for #TogetherThursday (on Friday because life has happened...) will be a combo! Not - [CA Hands & Voices ASTra](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ca-hands-voices-astra/) - What has helped you and your family understand the complex process of Public Schooling or ultimately, decide that Public Schooling wasn’t a choice for you, but you knew you had the right to choices? Hello Friends, Welcome to this week’s #TogetherThursday about showing up together and fighting for what you have a right to, even - [Following Directions](https://cahandsandvoices.org/following-directions/) - Hands & Voices is here to support you, almost done with our Birthday Month! Lets explore this week about a fun topic related to: Following Directions and Executive Functioning! #TogetherThursday Hello Families, How do you use directions in your adult life? Are you one of those people who read the directions on the box or - [Empathy](https://cahandsandvoices.org/empathy/) - Hands & Voices is here for you, especially in these times of uncertainty. Today for #TogetherThursday a short overview about Empathy. This month many different themes are around thankfulness and how do we celebrate that without looking at building Empathy in our DHH children? For our youngest friends Key take aways include-Talking about feelings, modeling - [“Dinner Table Syndrome”](https://cahandsandvoices.org/dinner-table-syndrome/) - Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family as we move further into Holiday Season. #TogetherThursday this week is highlighting family time and access for DHH children: How do we support them to advocate for themselves during dinner times, everyday and also during extended family dinners? For our youngest friends, self-advocacy can - [Thanksgiving](https://cahandsandvoices.org/thanksgiving/) - This week there is no informational post for #TogetherThursday I hope that you and your loved ones were together however you could be and that you were able to honor those that may not be with you during this time for any reason. Also I hope that we also remember what this day may mean - [Welcome Winter](https://cahandsandvoices.org/welcome-winter/) - Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family as we move into Winter!! #TogetherThursday this week is highlighting winter wear and winter access!! Winter wonderlands are here and everywhere, with cold fronts everywhere how do we keep our kiddos warm and also able to access the world around them? For younger friends - [Keeping Busy 1](https://cahandsandvoices.org/keeping-busy-1/) - Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family as we continue moving through Winter and moving into school break! #TogetherThursday this week and next week will be about keeping busy during school breaks! There are lots of activities that you can do at home during this break to keep busy and to support - [Keeping Busy 2](https://cahandsandvoices.org/keeping-busy-2/) - Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family as we continue moving through Winter and moving into school break! #TogetherThursday this week and last week were about keeping busy during school breaks, although there is also another message this week. :) At the end of this year, and really every calendar year - [Self Care](https://cahandsandvoices.org/self-care/) - January with Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family as we move further into a new year. #TogetherThursday this week is about self care. What does that look like for you? For your DHH child? Lets break it down in 1, 2, 3 For every family, what we often overlook is - [Modeling](https://cahandsandvoices.org/modeling/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family with whatever journey you are on with your DHH child. #TogetherThursday this week is about Modeling. When we’re on this journey with DHH children, there is constant discussion about Modeling. Modeling this, modeling that. Modeling, model, model. There are different types of modeling! - [Lunar New Yea](https://cahandsandvoices.org/lunar-new-yea/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family with whatever journey you are on with your DHH child. #TogetherThursday this week is related to two upcoming holidays! Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day. As we continue to come together as a community and celebrate those around us, what can we do - [Books (Real)](https://cahandsandvoices.org/books-real/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family with whatever journey you are on with your DHH child. This week for #TogetherThursday we will be exploring Books! If you’ve ever worked or chatting with me as a Teacher or as a friend you know that I am all about books. We - [Stress Management](https://cahandsandvoices.org/stress-management/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family on your journey you are on with your DHH child. Lets talk about stress. We are all stressed at one point or another, and we’ve had resources on this page before about self-care. We as adults need to be our best selves - [Spring](https://cahandsandvoices.org/spring/) - Hello Friends! Hands & Voices can support you and your child side by side on your journey! Today on #TogetherThursday: Spring is here!! What exciting things are you doing in your home to welcome this new season? Here is a list of spring crafts for all ages(yes ALL ages): Link All these crafts require are - [Stickers](https://cahandsandvoices.org/stickers/) - Hello/ Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey, wherever that may take you. This week on #TogetherThursday we are exploring stickers! Stickers have been very popular lately and honestly have a always been a big part of growing up. For our youngest friends Key Take aways-Stickers are great for - [Holding Space](https://cahandsandvoices.org/space/) - Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey. This week on #TogetherThursday I wanted to write a shorter and more simple post. Lately with everything from school re-openings, to summer plan potentials, vaccine choices, end of the school year pressure, IEP season and much more it seems that we all are - [Capturing the moment](https://cahandsandvoices.org/capturing-the-moment/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey, wherever that may take you. This week on #TogetherThursday I wanted to highlight something as we come up on the end of the school year in many places: Reflection. We’ve touched on the importance of self-care as a parent before and - [End of the School Year](https://cahandsandvoices.org/end-of-the-school-year/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey, wherever that may take you. This week on #TogetherThursday, lets check in about transitions! During this year, and as we approach a break, how do we support our children through transitions? For our youngest friends: Key Take Aways-Establishing Routines supports daily transitions - [Summer](https://cahandsandvoices.org/summer/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey, wherever that may take you. This week on #TogetherThursday, lets talk about Summer plans! What things are you looking forward to as we move into warm weather? Beach activities and Devices! What tips and tricks do you have for families? Here - [Pride](https://cahandsandvoices.org/pride/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey, wherever that may take you. This week on #TogetherThursday, lets loop back to intersectionality, but from a different lens. June is Pride Month in a few different places including the U.S. Here is a WONDERFUL resource that is titled, “An age-by-age - [Book Recommendations for Parents](https://cahandsandvoices.org/book-recommendations-for-parents/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey, wherever that may take you. This week on #TogetherThursday, lets discuss some literature selections, but this time for parents and caregivers. While there are so many fantastic books for children, we also should take some time to look at how we - [California Hands & Voices Launches a NEW Website!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/california-hands-voices-launches-a-new-website/) - California Hands & Voices is an unfunded non-profit organization and we operate solely through volunteers. Our volunteers are worth their weight in gold and we wholeheartedly appreciate that they share their time and talents without any compensation. Thank you, David Whittaker and Ross Manges at Sparkistic, LCC for donating your time to create a new - [ASTra Program Launches](https://cahandsandvoices.org/astra-blog/) - California Hands & Voices has been approved to have an ASTra Program! What is ASTra? ASTra is a replicable Deaf and Hard of Hearing Educational Advocacy Program providing parents and professionals with resources that focus specifically on D/HH issues in educational advocacy in the Hands & Voices context: a commitment to unbiased support of families - [O.U.R. Project Webinar](https://cahandsandvoices.org/o-u-r-project/) - Observe, Understand & Respond: the O.U.R. Children's Safety Project We don’t like to think about it, but our kids who are deaf or hard of hearing are at a higher risk for maltreatment — bullying, abuse and neglect. California Hands & Voices is committed to doing our part to keep all kids safe from harm. We - [AB# 598](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hearing-aid-bill/) - California Hands & Voices wrote a letter of support for AB 598, which would require health insurance plans and policies to cover hearing aids for children up to 18 years of age. In California, the cost of a hearing aid is the most significant barrier preventing families from accessing hearing aids and hearing aid services. - [Join California Hands & Voices](https://cahandsandvoices.org/member-benefits/) - Member Benefits! Communicator Hands & Voices Newspaper delivered to your home Discounts to ASTra Training and Select Events Discounts to Family Camp Priority Access to our ASTra Advocates E-Blast Mailing List Invitation to current events locally and statewide Access to our Facebook Support Group Your membership also supports our mission and the work we do! - [Family Camps](https://cahandsandvoices.org/registration-for-family-camp/) - We invite you to come to one (or all!) of our Family Camps and enjoy quality time with your family in a safe and beautiful natural setting with other families raising Deaf or Hard of Hearing Children. Family Camp is fun for all ages and it has become an anchor for many families throughout California - [AB #598 Update](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ab-598-update/) - If you are on our Facebook Group and/or Page you saw that Parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Adults, AND Professionals all showed up in Sacramento to show their support for AB 598 at the Assembly Health Committee hearing on Tuesday April 24th. Thank you to everyone who was able to attend - [HANDS & VOICES OBSERVE, UNDERSTAND, AND RESPOND PROJECT WEBINAR](https://cahandsandvoices.org/o-u-r-project-webinar/) - Webinar on August 4th from 2:00p – 3:00p PST Hands & Voices Observe, Understand, and Respond ProjectPresented by Harold Johnson, ED.D., and Sara Kennedy. The webinar will share insights, resources and strategies designed to assist the parents of 6 - 11 years children who are and the professionals they work with to: 1. Understand when, - [Changing of the Guard Letter from the CA H&V Executive Team](https://cahandsandvoices.org/changing-of-the-guard-letter-from-the-cahv-executive-team/) - Dear California Hands & Voices Community, On November 10, 2019 the California Hands & Voices Board met to discuss the vision and strategic plan for our organization. In addition to those activities, a consensus decision was made to allow Apryl Chauhan and Cora Shahid to pass along the roles and responsibilities as President and Vice-President - [2020 ASTra training in Sacramento](https://cahandsandvoices.org/2020-astra-training-in-sacramento/) - The upcoming ASTra training in Sacramento on February 8th. We are hosting a one day/ 8 hour class for parents, professionals and community members to increase knowledge and skills to advocate for their own child, and/or students they work with. The Hands & Voices ASTra Program is designed to empower parents, promote self-advocacy of students, and - [CA H&V letter to Professionals](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ca-h-v-letter-to-professionals/) - Attention Professional California Hands & Voices would like to thank you for working diligently to support families with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children in new and innovative ways due to Covid-19. This has been a challenging period of time for everyone. Most importantly we hope that you and your family are healthy and safe. - [Letter to Governor Newsom re: AB 598 (Bloom)](https://cahandsandvoices.org/letter-to-governor-newsom-re-ab-598-bloom/) - May 15, 2020 Governor Gavin Newsom1303 10th Street, Suite 1173Sacramento, CA 95814 Dear Governor Newsom, California Hands & Voices is an organization dedicated to supporting families with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in a respectful and non-judgmental manner regarding language opportunities, communication tools or educational approaches. We’re a parent-driven, non-profit organization providing - [Letter from CA H&V Re: AB 1850 and AB 2257](https://cahandsandvoices.org/letter-from-ca-h-v-re-ab-1850-and-ab-2257/) - Dear Assembly Member Domokos, California Hands & Voices is an organization that supports the families of deaf and hard of hearing children in a respectful and non-judgmental manner regarding language opportunities, communication tools, or educational approaches. We are writing today to ask for opposition to AB 1850 and AB 2257 unless it is amended to - [AB #598 Update June 15th 2020](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ab-598-update-june-15th-2020/) - An Update! A huge heartfelt thank you to the Assembly and Senate for continuing to stand with California’s deaf and hard of hearing children and including the hearing aid program in their budget and sending it on to Governor Newsom for his signature. Today, the Senate and Assembly voted to include the Governor’s January proposal to - [A Thank You Giveaway from California Hands & Voices.](https://cahandsandvoices.org/a-thank-you-giveaway-from-california-hands-voices/) - Goal of the giveaway. This has been a challenging year. We hope that the giveaway brings JOY to everyone who participates. Official Rules. To qualify you must live in the state of California and be a Parent of a DHH child, a DHH adult or a Professional serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. To participate do - [Giveaway Winners](https://cahandsandvoices.org/giveaway-winners/) - Thank you to everyone who participated in the CA H&V Giveaway! We hope it brought JOY to many! Congratulations to the Winners! Christiana Viayra Sonia Nunez Sherry Fretis Lana Riley Lanna Cervantes Maria Guzman Deniux Anguian Kimberly Nguyen Lindsay Jack - [It's our 8th year and we want to make it special.](https://cahandsandvoices.org/it-s-our-8th-year-and-we-want-to-make-it-special/) - Want to join us in supporting a good cause? We are raising money for our ASTra (Advocacy program) and your contribution will make an impact, whether you donate $5 or $500. Every little bit helps in reaching our goal of $5,000 for the month of October. Thank you for your support. Our ASTra advocates have - [Video Introduction of our ASTra Team](https://cahandsandvoices.org/video-introduction-of-our-astra-team/) - Meet our Advocates - Video Introduction of our ASTra Team Your support makes it possible for our advocates to support parents throughout our state. Donations both big and small add upto provide services for our families. Help support the 17,000 DHH studentsin California today! Thank you! - [Meet our two fantastic webmasters](https://cahandsandvoices.org/meet-our-two-fantastic-webmasters/) - California Hands & Voices would like to thank our two fantastic webmasters. We are honored to have have both of you on the team. Thank You for volunteering your time and your talents with California Hands & Voices. We are incredibly grateful for your service. - [Thank you kidpower](https://cahandsandvoices.org/thank-you-kidpower/) - Thank you to Erika Leonard & kidpower. October 9th 2020 We cannot thank you enough for your two-part workshop on Bullying Prevention and Healthy Relationship Skills. The parents and the teachers who participated learned so much. The 5-step process to stop bullying and unwanted touching was realistic and easy to teach to children. It was simple - [Hands & Voices Consultant hired for Underserved Population](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hands-voices-consultant-hired-for-underserved-population/) - Rosabel Agbayani was hired as the Hands & Voices Consultant for Underserved Populations. Congratulations Rosabel! If you have any suggestions, comments, resources that touch on outreach to our Underserved Populations (referring to race, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexual orientation, family structure, and socioeconomic status) or would like to be involved please reach out to Hands & Voices - [Welcome Brianna and Elizabeth to the CA H&V Board](https://cahandsandvoices.org/welcome-brianna-and-elizabeth-to-the-ca-h-v-board/) - Please join us in welcoming two new members to the California Hands & Voices Board! Brianna Meshke McLay (Oceanside) and Elizabeth Harlan (Lakeside) will be Co-Representatives for San Diego/Imperial County (Area 8). We are so excited to have you both a part of the team! More information will soon be released about both Brianna and Elizabeth. - [A message for the New Year from the Executive Director](https://cahandsandvoices.org/a-message-for-the-new-year-from-the-executive-director/) - We look forward to another busy and productive year ahead serving you. On behalf of everyone at California Hands & Voices, I’d like to wish you a Happy New Year. This has been a challenging year with the weight of a global pandemic impacting each of us but it's also been a year that has - [A message from the CA H&V Board President](https://cahandsandvoices.org/a-message-from-the-ca-h-v-board-president/) - Dear California Hands & Voices Family, Happy New Year! I hope that everyone has had a chance to rest and recover from the unprecedented year that we have had in 2020. In the past year many of us were forced to deal with unexpected changes. For our children, especially our Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children, they - [O.U.R. Project 2020 - Child Safety](https://cahandsandvoices.org/o-u-r-project-2020-child-safety/) - Update from Nancy Grosz SagerCoordinator for the O.U.R. Project in CA. 2020 was a weird year for all of us, to say the least. The 2020 O.U.R. Toy Story Quilt was finished, and was supposed to be presented at the Southern California California Hands & Voices camp in May, but the camp was sadly canceled because - [ASTra year in review - CA H&V Advocacy Program](https://cahandsandvoices.org/astra-year-in-review-ca-h-v-advocacy-program/) - I look back at 2020 and just wow. We started our year off with our Level 1, 8 hour advocacy course in Sacramento, CA where 30 Parents, Advocates, and Professionals gathered all in one room together in person to learn how to create powerful IEPs that honored the Unique Needs of Our Deaf and Hard - [Thank you for everything you do.](https://cahandsandvoices.org/thank-you-for-everything-you-do/) - We want to express our sincere gratitude to the many who provided financial support to California Hands & Voices in 2020. We are humbled and thankful that you our financial contribution because it allows our unfunded organization the ability to operate. In 2020 we received donations via FB Birthday fundraisers Amazon Smile link End of the - [We are there for you.](https://cahandsandvoices.org/we-are-there-for-you/) - In tonight's parent break out (during the LEAD-K Family Services webinar), so many expressed the need for more emotional support in navigating their child's identification. Some expressed that during this time of COVID it is exceptionally difficult. "I hope you know our community of parents is here for you. On your good days and on - [Amazon Smile Wishlist for CA H&V Regional Events](https://cahandsandvoices.org/amazon-smile-wishlist-for-ca-h-v-regional-events/) - CA H&V has a Amazon Smile Wishlist! We are putting together a box of supplies for each of our 9 regions so that when we can meet face to face again we can hit the ground running. We will use the supplies for CA H&V events and also when we are invited to have an - [A Latin Hope / Una Esperanza Latina](https://cahandsandvoices.org/a-latin-hope/) - by Yiesell Rayon California Hands & Voices Los Angeles County Area Representative Four years ago I began an amazing journey I never expected. My son did not pass the newborn hearing screening and we were referred to an audiologist. He was just six weeks old when we had our first audiology appointment. I can still - [Alysa’s Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/alysas-story/) - by Anel The year was 2005 and my husband and I had been married for 18 years. We had 2 healthy boys, age 17 and 14 at the time, when we found out we were having a baby girl. I vividly remember the day Alysa was born. It was filled with mixed emotions- extreme happiness - [Ask the Audiologist: Not Deaf Enough for Regional Programs](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ask-the-audiologist-not-deaf-enough-for-regional-programs/) - By Mallorie Evans, M.A., FAAA California Hands & Voices Board Member Q: What about children/students who want to go to the regional Deaf/hard of hearing program in their community and are told they are not "deaf enough" or have "too much hearing?" It seems some people in the educational community judge this by audiograms. This - [Deaf and Pre-Med](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-and-pre-med/) - by Victoria Popov What the mind can conceive and believe, you will achieve. All throughout my life this is what my father would tell me and it has become a large part in helping me achieve, and to continue chasing after, my dreams of becoming a surgeon. I am very passionate about my love for - [Deaf Enough: Making the Case for a Hard of Hearing Student](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-enough/) - by Johanna Wonderly As the mother of two medically Hard of Hearing, culturally Deaf, daughters, transitioning from IFSP to IEP was a very stressful and scary time for our family. Due to the hard work and awesome planning during the Birth to Three years, my daughter was transitioning at an age appropriate level. The initial - [Everything I Never Said: Coming Clean about Home Visits](https://cahandsandvoices.org/home-visits/) - by Chelsea Courtney Hull, M.A. Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Reflecting on one’s work is important, particularly when you’re a teacher. Deaf Educators today are spending more time “on the floor” with families providing consultation, support, education and “hands on therapy” during home visits with early intervention programs. Many Deaf Educators received - [Find Your Passion](https://cahandsandvoices.org/find-your-passion/) - by Apryl Chauhan California Hands & Voices Board member I am a wife. I am a mother. I am a woman. Depending on the day or even the hour I may be more one than the other. In the early years of raising my oldest daughter Zahra, late identified as deaf, it seemed I was - [How to Help Your Audiologist](https://cahandsandvoices.org/how-to-help-your-audiologist/) - by Ross Adams, M.S., CCC-SLP Supporter of California Hands & Voices Here’s a fun game to try at home with your toddler and preschooler. It’s an activity that will help your child’s audiologist get the most accurate results possible the next time your child has a hearing test in the audiology booth. First, you will - [Interview with Zina Jawadi](https://cahandsandvoices.org/interview-with-zina-jawadi/) - by Zina Jawadi (via Hands & Voices interview) California Resident Can you please share a little about you, your family and any hobbies you have? My name is Zina Jawadi, and I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. I was diagnosed with hearing loss when I was 3.5 years old. Predicting - [Learn, Experience, Thrive...](https://cahandsandvoices.org/learn-experience-thrive/) - by Michelle Bronson Learn, Experience, Thrive . . . the motto of California School for the Deaf, Fremont. As I reflect on this motto, especially in how it relates to my daughter’s new chapter in life as a student at CSDF, I marvel at how it accurately captures this new stage in life for our - [Learning to Listen](https://cahandsandvoices.org/learning-to-listen/) - by Jeff Whittington California Hands & Voices Supporter As cliché as it sounds, life really is full of some amazing and powerful lessons. We never know what obstacles lie around each corner or how we will be shaped though the management of each of these challenges, but through all of them, a part of us - [Letting Go or Following My Son's Lead](https://cahandsandvoices.org/letting-go/) - By Cindy Sandoval California Hands & Voices My husband and I live in a rural northern California town with our two sons, Jordan and Chrystian. In 2009, at the age of 13, Jordan asked to enroll at the California School for the Deaf in Fremont. Even though the idea of being apart from him tore - [Limitless](https://cahandsandvoices.org/limitless/) - by Anonymous Having confines set on you by other people is incredibly frustrating, especially when you and those close to you understand that you are completely capable of anything but hearing like everyone else. Anyone who has grown up deaf or hard-of-hearing understands exactly what I mean. It is also frustrating when, after years of - [My Many Shoes](https://cahandsandvoices.org/my-many-shoes/) - by Dakota Ronco If you asked me whether being mainstreamed with interpreters or attending to a residential school for the deaf was better, I would not have an answer. My experiences shaped me into who I am. If I had graduated from a public high school, I would have not grown as much socially, nor - [Putting the "Care" Back in Healthcare](https://cahandsandvoices.org/putting-care-back-in-healthcare/) - by Rosabel Agbayani Member of California Hands & Voices I have always been attracted to the caring, compassionate, and purposeful work of health services. I spent 5 years working as an Administrative Medical Assistant in and worked in Healthcare Administration for several years with a focus on Patient Relations and Quality Improvement. Working with physicians - [Staying Organized from the Start!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/staying-organized-from-the-start/) - by Cora Shahid California Hands & Voices Membership Chair All parents intuitively want to be good advocates for their child but in the beginning, we might not know exactly how to do that. Here are some steps that you can take to help you be effective while becoming more experienced. Know your child’s strengths and - [The Funny Things on my Ears](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-funny-things-on-my-ears/) - by Michelle Hu Lapid Pediatric Audiologist & Bilateral Cochlear Implant Recipient If you told my mother 30 years ago that her daughter would graduate high school and college with honors, she actually might have had some doubts. This is because, thirty years ago, when the doctors confirmed my hearing loss, they also told her that - [The Road We Travel TOGETHER: Our Family Journey](https://cahandsandvoices.org/road-we-travel-together/) - By Rosabel O. Agbayani, MPH “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” -Mother Theresa Sometimes we think that in order to make change we have to make a lot of noise. What I have learned from my experience of raising my children, and especially raising my deaf child, is - [What I Wish I Knew When I was Sixteen Going through the College Search Process](https://cahandsandvoices.org/what-i-wish-i-knew/) - by Brittany Comegna Admissions Counselor at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at the Rochester Institute of Technology I did everything that I now tell students to NOT do. I was a senior in high school at California School for the Deaf in Fremont. I was encouraged by teachers and school staff to attend - [Why Do I Think It Is So Important to Encourage Parent Support?](https://cahandsandvoices.org/encourage-parent-support/) - by Nancy Grosz Sager California Department of Education (retired Spring 2018) This is actually a no-brainer to me. We all know that the # 1 predictor of whether or not ANY child does well academically, socially, and vocationally is PARENT INVOLVEMENT. For a child who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing, strong parent involvement is - [Exciting News from the California Hands & Voices Chapter!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/exciting-news/) - by California Hands & Voices California Hands & Voices proudly hosted an ASTra level 1 training on February 2nd 2019 in San Diego, California. There were a total of 95 parent and professionals in attendance from all regions of California. We also want to recognize and thank the Hands & Voices Military Project for attending - [Deaf Plus Means So Much More](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-plus-means-so-much-more/) - By Kristen Stratton, California Hands & Voices I have spent a lifetime trying to figure out where I fit in as a hard of hearing person in a hearing world. I grew up in a family with a strong history of hearing loss but without the richness of language or culture; that seemed reserved for - [IEP Confessions: The Truth about Educational Interpreting](https://cahandsandvoices.org/iep-confessions-the-truth-about-educational-interpreting/) - by Melissa Smith, Ed.D.Professor of ASL-English Translation and Interpreting Studies Perhaps you have a child who is Deaf or hard of hearing. Even if you know a lot about the Deaf community, there are a myriad of complex factors involved in making sure your child is surrounded by rich language opportunities. Maybe your child is - [Military Families Can Be Board Members, Too!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/military-families-board-members/) - by Chelsea R. Hull, M.A. H&V Military Project Dear California Hands & Voices State Chapter, I want to thank you for accepting my application to the Board. Even though you knew I was a military spouse who would be moving, you let me serve. By adding me to your Board, you helped shape me into - [Penelope with her new doll](https://cahandsandvoices.org/penelope-with-her-new-doll/) - by Lindsay Jack, California H&V She’s Just Like Me: The 2020 American Girl Doll When I first learned the American Girl Doll Girl of the Year was a doll who uses hearing aids and would be the first with any disability, I thought it was great and would be a perfect birthday present for my - [Deaflympics Gold Medal Snowboarder!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaflympics-gold-medal-snowboarder/) - Here in Sacramento we have a claim to fame - we have Sean Esson, a Deaflympics Gold Medal Snowboarder! I had the privilege of interviewing Sean on January 14, 2020, and he told me his amazing story. But because I know that not all of you will read this article to the end, I am - [SPED-shaming?](https://cahandsandvoices.org/sped-shaming/) - by Rhonda Savage As a parent to millennial children, I have heard the term “shaming” preceded by numerous attributes: “Fat-shaming,” “body-shaming,” “parent-shaming,” and even “vacation-shaming.” Really, (fill in the blank)-shaming is a term that has come to be used whenever one person is perceived to be judging another. For example, one worker might say they - [Airport Accessibility: Palm Springs Edition](https://cahandsandvoices.org/airport-accessibility-palm-springs-edition/) - by Anna Phillips, DHH Adult, California In early February 2000, I had the opportunity to travel from North California down to Palm Springs for my grandfather’s 80th birthday party, which was a surprise. Traveling there and back was one for the books. This experience would have been just an annoying experience for a hearing person, - [Written interview with Harper author of Now Hear This; Harper Soars with her Magic Ears](https://cahandsandvoices.org/interview-harper-soars/) - by Cora Shahid, California Hands & Voices Can you please share a little about you, your family and any hobbies you have? I am in seventh grade. My favorite sport is basketball, I have played on a club team since third grade. I was born with hearing loss and wear a hearing aid on one - [Hands & Voices on the Homefront](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hv-homefront/) - by Johanna Wonderly Military Families are a huge asset to our chapters. I live in California and my husband is a service member of the California National Guard and I want to share my experience as a military spouse in chapter leadership. Something about the military is we're always on the go. Things are unpredictable - [The Neverending Marathon: A DHH Plus Mom’s Need for Community](https://cahandsandvoices.org/never-ending-marathon/) - by Kristen Stratton Have you ever found yourself sitting in your car, in the parking lot of your child’s school, anxiously awaiting the start of yet another IEP meeting, and trying to convince yourself that it will get easier someday? There may have been some ugly crying and some adult words thrown in here and - [Infusing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion](https://cahandsandvoices.org/infusing-equity-diversity-and-inclusion/) - by Rosabel Agbayani This past September 30, 2020 marked a significant milestone for my family. The day marks 10 years that we became a Deaf/Hard of Hearing (DHH) Family.So many changes have happened in our lives over the past decade; my son is a happy, healthy, funny, and productive teenager. Our family has grown to - [Why is my Child Deaf/Hard of hearing?](https://cahandsandvoices.org/why-is-my-child-deaf-hard-of-hearing/) - By Daniela Carvalho, MD, MMM Most of my patients know me as Dr. C (my sign language name is Dr. with the C by the heart). I am a pediatric otolaryngologist who has been caring for children with hearing loss for the past 20 years. Often when I meet a family in my office, their - [The Emotional Side of Progressive Hearing Loss for Parents](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-emotional-side-of-progressive-hearing-loss-for-parents/) - By Michelle Hu, Au.D. CCC-A “Mommy, I can’t hear.” No parent ever wants to hear their child cry out in distress. These are words that my mom and dad had to hear more than a few times as I grew up. The very first time, my mom says she sprung out of bed in a - [Finding Identity: Life with Kacey](https://cahandsandvoices.org/life-with-kacey/) - By Marie Morgan, California H&V I will always remember the day that I drove away from the hospital with my newborn knowing that she just failed the hearing test again and had a high likelihood of a mild to moderate loss. I looked at her, thrilled to be taking a baby home after suffering a - [Delanie's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/delanie-harrington/) - I self-identify as…. Hard of hearing, deaf (not Deaf), disabled. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Reading and writing, music (listening and playing), board games. Please tell us about your earliest years of life related to your hearing, identification etc. I was tested very young, and doctors initially failed to recognize that - [Amanda's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/amanda-mooneyham/) - I self-identify as…. Deaf What do you enjoy doing in your free time? One of my favorite things to do is to explore new places and experience different cultures. I had some great opportunities to travel in the past several years and it has really opened my eyes to how different the human experience can - [Janna's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/janna-cowper/) - I self-identify as…. Hard of Hearing What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Running, biking, dancing, community theater Please tell us about your earliest years of life related to your hearing, identification etc. I have a moderate to profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. It's genetic in our family with a 50/50 chance of - [Josh's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/josh-grajeda/) - I self-identify as…. Hard-of-hearing What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I like to workout, hike, go to the beach, hang out with my friends, and be with my family. Please tell us about your earliest years of life related to your hearing, identification etc. When I was 2 years old, my mom - [Kei-Che's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/kei-che-randle/) - I self-identify as…. Deaf (with a big D) What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Love "signing" to songs, going for walks, visiting beaches, writing poems Please tell us about your earliest years of life related to your hearing, identification etc. I was diagnosed with hearing loss at the age of 7. I - [Lan's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/lan/) - I self-identify as…. profoundly Deaf What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I love playing tennis ever since I was 7 years old. I am on Women's Tennis League teams in Los Angeles since 2013. I also enjoy reading, cooking, yoga, and being in nature. Please tell us about your earliest years of - [Michelle's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/michelle-hu/) - I self-identify as…. Hard of hearing What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I'm a new mom, my kids are 2.5 and 1 years old. They are hilarious to be around. They keep me pretty busy right now, but I’ve created a new Instagram account, @Mama.Hu.Hears where I share personal experiences and tips/tricks - [Neal's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/neal-savage/) - I self-identify as…. Deaf What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I enjoy the outdoors and camping, as well as reading and watching YouTube videos in my free time. I am always on the hunt for more music and ways to entertain myself. Also, for several years in high school I volunteered and - [Deb's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deb-martin/) - I self-identify as…. Hearing What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Cooking, paddle boarding, travel, exploring and adventure, music, friends, family. Please tell us about your earliest years of life related to your hearing, identification etc. I was diagnosed with mild to moderate loss in one ear, and moderate to severe in the - [Irit's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/irit-specktor/) - I self-identify as…. Hard of Hearing / Deaf What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Dance, reading, music, art Please tell us about your earliest years of life related to your hearing, identification etc. My parents didn't find out about my hearing loss. I was compensating throughout my childhood and was a great - [Statement in Support of the Asian American Pacific Islander Community](https://cahandsandvoices.org/statement-in-support-of-the-asian-american-pacific-islander-community/) - March 18, 2021 In response to the shootings and untimely death of 8 people in North Georgia, 6 of who were Asian and all women, California Hands & Voices is grieving the loss of life and acts of injustice. We recognize that across the nation and in our state of California, there has been a rise in incidents against - [Jane's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/jane-swift/) - I self-identify as…. I introduce myself as hard of hearing. Previously I would identify as hearing impaired. I feel like when I say hearing impaired, I am taken more seriously. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I am an extrovert. I love planning social gatherings, events and spending time with my family - [Crosby's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/crosby-doyle/) - I self-identify as…. Hard of Hearing (if CI's are on), deaf (if CI's are off) Please share a little about your education placement & extracurricular activities as a youth. I was mainstreamed (no need to move), stayed consistent throughout K-12. I received FMs (microphones and speakers) and CART. I was involved with some extracurriculars such - [Lynette's Story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/lynette/) - I self-identify as…. Deaf What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Reading, playing games, exercising, wine tastings Please tell us about your earliest years of life related to your hearing, identification etc. When I was 4 years old, I woke up one morning completely Deaf. My family didn't notice that morning until my - [The Ambriz Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-ambriz-family/) - Ruben, Elena, and Luna Before having Luna, her father and I knew that we wanted our little girl to feel connected to us and to have a strong relationship of communication. That of course did not happen as we planned it and at three years old she did not speak to us. She grew distant, - [The B Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-b-family/) - Hi we’re the B.’s! Jump to Polish version Our son was identified as being Single Side Deaf (he has a profound sensorineural loss on one side, normal hearing on the other) at six weeks old via ABR, after failing his newborn hearing screening in the hospital and again at two weeks old. We have chosen - [The Trakhman Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-trakhman-family/) - Diana, Alex, Phillip, and Nickolas We are a Trakhman family. Diana is a registered nurse and Alex is self-employed. We are parents of 2 boys. Phillip is 16 y.o. and Nickolas is 8 y.o. Nickolas is normal hearing. Phillip is our child who is hard of hearing and has special needs. He was born in - [The Herrera/Maqueda Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-herrera-maqueda-family/) - Analy & Lizzy Our family Herrera & Maqueda, my husband and I have two daughters. Analy our oldest is hearing and Elizabeth (Lizzy) our youngest is Deaf. When Lizzy was born she failed the new born screening test twice. We were told it had to do with liquid in her ears and that surgery could - [The Lopez Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-lopez-family/) - Adriana, Carlos, and their children Our journey begins before either of our children were born. In fact, our journey began before any of us were born. I (Adriana), was born into two worlds: the Deaf world and the hearing world. Both of my parents are Deaf. Being a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), I was - [The Vijay Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-vijay-family/) - Vijay, Nandini, Ved, & baby sister We are Vijay family. We moved to Los Angeles from India 5 years back for work. My husband Vijay is software engineer and me (Nandini) homemaker. After almost 6 years of our marriage our son Ved was born in Los Angeles. We were super excited. On 2nd day they - [The Graves Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-graves-family/) - Andre, Janell, Korbin, Remington, and Vivian Hello! We are the Graves family from sunny San Diego. We are an active family of 5. Andre and Janell both work as an analysts for the State of California. We are proud parents of our 3 young children; Korbin, hearing, Remington, hearing and Vivian, our youngest, deaf. With - [The Nokes Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-nokes-family/) - Erin, Jeff, Amelia, and Casey We are the Nokes Family. We feel incredibly fortunate for our two wonderful children, Amelia and Casey. Jeff works in high-tech and Erin works as an audiologist. Amelia spent a significant part of her first year of life at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford due to medical complications associated - [Your year-round support keeps CA H&V strong. Give today!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/your-year-round-support-keeps-ca-hv-strong-give-today/) - It’s not too late to support California Hands & Voices this #GivingTuesday. We know there are countless worthwhile nonprofits doing incredible work, and we’re truly honored to be among those you consider. Every donation—no matter the size—makes a meaningful impact for families across California. Here are a few simple ways to support our community: -Become - [ASTra  Announcement](https://cahandsandvoices.org/astra-announcement/) - Our next 8 Hour ASTra (Advocacy Support & Training) Workshop is coming to Northern California! We’re currently seeking a meeting space and sponsorship support to help make this valuable training possible. In the past, our trainings have been generously hosted by hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and churches. If your organization or venue is interested in supporting - [Join the Hands & Voices 5K - California Team](https://cahandsandvoices.org/join-the-hands-voices-5k-california-team/) - Choose the location that works best for you—your neighborhood, a local park, the beach, or even a treadmill then invite friends to join you and walk together to strengthen community and raise funds for California Hands & Voices. 100% of the proceeds raised by California participants support our chapter’s mission to empower parent leaders in our - [Happy Birthday to California Hands & Voices](https://cahandsandvoices.org/happy-birthday-to-california-hands-voices/) - This month marks a special milestone—California Hands & Voices became an official chapter in October 2012, which means we’re turning 13 years old! - [By Jen Jordan](https://cahandsandvoices.org/by-jen-jordan/) - Briefly Introduce Your FamilyWe're a family of three living in San Diego. I'm originally from NJ and moved in San Diego 10 years ago, and Andy moved to San Diego in 2014 due to military orders. Today, I work in media relations at UC San Diego and Andy is a civilian contractor for the Navy. - [By Rubie Lopez](https://cahandsandvoices.org/by-rubie-lopez/) - Briefly Introduce Your FamilyWe are the Lopez family from southern California. Both Dad and I are in our early 20’s. Mom’s family is hispanic, so Spanish is spoken at the home regularly. It’s been a challenge teaching Remy three languages I will admit. But we’d love for him to be able to communicate with grandparents - [Stories of DHH Adults](https://cahandsandvoices.org/stories-of-deaf-and-hard-of-hearing-dhh-adults/) - Welcome to our Deaf and Hard of Hearing Stories Collection. This section is dedicated to stories written by Deaf and Hard of Hearing adults—shared with the families of children who are DHH. These narratives offer insight, encouragement, and lived experiences to support you on your parenting journey. - [New Strategic Plan for 2025–2028](https://cahandsandvoices.org/new-strategic-plan-for-2025-2028/) - Dear Valued Community Members, CA Hands & Voices is beginning the development of its new Strategic Plan for 2025–2028. To ensure our efforts reflect the real needs, hopes, and experiences of the families we serve, we invite your input through an electronic survey. Your insights will help guide us as we work to strengthen the - [Survive, or Thrive? - a choice in the face of trials](https://cahandsandvoices.org/survive-or-thrive-a-choice-in-the-face-of-trials/) - By Myra Cullum, California Hands & Voices "It's okay to cry." These were the words of the audiologist who had just performed the hearing test on my infant daughter. My baby presented as severely-profoundly deaf in both ears. But this was not news to me. I already knew something was different with this baby. She - [LEAD-K Family Services (CA EHDI Program)](https://cahandsandvoices.org/lead-k-family-services-ca-ehdi-program/) - LEAD-K Family Services is the EHDI Program in California. If you are the parent of a infant who was newly identified you were likely referred to LEAD-K Family Services for parent to parent support. But did you know you can self refer to LEAD-K Family Services at anytime for parent to parent support and to - [Scholarships for DHH Students and or students with Special Needs](https://cahandsandvoices.org/scholarships-for-dhh-students-and-or-students-with-special-needs/) - FYI- Scholarships for DHH Students and or students with Special Needs Travelers Protective Association Scholarship Trust Annual Awards – Quarterly Deadlines – Need Based - $100-$1,000 Sertoma Scholarship for the Hard of Hearing or Deaf Annual Awards – Deadline May 1 - $1,000 per year American Association on Health and Disability Frederick J. Krause Scholarship - [STEM lens](https://cahandsandvoices.org/stem-lens/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your family! This week has various celebrations including Hanukkah, Indigenous Peoples recognition and Thanksgiving. We hope that you and your family feel connected and honored with one another. In coming together with family, there is often the sharing of meals, recipes and passing - [Play IS Learning](https://cahandsandvoices.org/play-is-learning/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This week on #TogetherThursday, as summer continues to unfold, there is the topic of Play! Did you know that Play IS learning? Play is one of the most overlooked ways to do so many things throughout life. It is vital in - [Life Skills](https://cahandsandvoices.org/life-skills-4/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This week on #TogetherThursday, is our last week for the theme of #LifeSkills This week we’re touching on general independence! What does that look like by age??????? Really the goal of life skills, and all this work, between appointments, school - [Deaf Awareness Month](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-awareness-month-4/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey, through all the ups and downs. Today is the last day of the month, the last day of Deaf Awareness Month. However, you know as parents of DHH children, DHH awareness is not a month, it's a daily, - [The Nancy Sager Saga](https://cahandsandvoices.org/the-nancy-sager-saga/) - A Tribute to a Lifetime of Service By Cora Shahid and Kasey Cain, California Hands & Voices How can one truly capture the depth of gratitude owed to someone who has devoted nearly 50 years to serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and their families? While words may fall short, California Hands & Voices - [CA H&V Northern California Family Camp 2024](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ca-hv-northern-california-family-camp-2024/) - CA H&V Northern California Family Camp 2024 is a wrap. Thank you for joining us. Please post/tag in the commnets to add a shout out from your family, share photos and thank the volunteers who made camp possible. More photos can be found in the California Hands & Voices Group. Here's a huge shout out - [Testimony Wanted](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimony-wanted/) - Has California Hands & Voices supported your family in any way? We want to hear all about it! Write a testimonial to be featured on our website, social media in presentations etc. Share your experience by scanning the QR code or directly on this link https://forms.gle/e4B7vxSKa5aN7cD68. We can't wait to hear from you! - [Ear Defenders](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ear-defenders/) - by Marie Morgan, CA H&V Member Living here in Southern California, we can go long stretches--even months at a time--without rain. My daughter, Kacey, is very active all year round and involved in many outdoor activities such as run club, swimming, soccer, and softball. Through the newborn hearing screening process, Kacey was identified with a - [A Family Celebrates Disability and Possibility](https://cahandsandvoices.org/a-family-celebrates-disability-and-possibility-2/) - By Ashley Jones, California H&V with Sara Kennedy, Editor People in this world often struggle to understand and accept differences. The Jones family is on a mission to change that in their circle of influence. “When one child is hard of hearing, I think it is important to become a “hard of hearing family”, says - [A Family Celebrates Disability and Possibility](https://cahandsandvoices.org/a-family-celebrates-disability-and-possibility/) - By Ashley Jones, California H&V with Sara Kennedy, Editor People in this world often struggle to understand and accept differences. The Jones family is on a mission to change that in their circle of influence. “When one child is hard of hearing, I think it is important to become a “hard of hearing family”, says - [D/HH Infusion: Seeing Through Change](https://cahandsandvoices.org/d-hh-infusion-seeing-through-change/) - By Brittany Comegna, California H&V In 2019, I submitted an article to CA HV entitled “What I Wish I Knew When I was Sixteen Going Through the College Search Process.” And, now, I sit here attempting to amend this original article in my capacity as an ASTra Advocate for California Hand & Voices. I admit - [Interview with Rachel Zemach, Author](https://cahandsandvoices.org/interview-with-rachel-zemach-author/) - Interview by Johanna Wonderly, California H&V Please introduce yourself, and tell us where you grew up, what kind of schools you went to, and how you became Deaf? I grew up in many different countries, it was a confusing, exciting, wonderful but also intense and challenging childhood. I became Deaf at age ten. At school - [Back to School 2](https://cahandsandvoices.org/back-to-school-2/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This month on #TogetherThursday, we are going to do a series on Back to School! As we move into back to school, most places are starting out with in-person as the primary option. Lets review what that potentially looks like - [Back to School 1](https://cahandsandvoices.org/back-to-school-1/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This month on #TogetherThursday, we are going to do a series on Back to School! Yes, it is in fact, that time again, back to school. What might this look like for you and your child as you transition out of - [Fall Vibes/Fall Favorites](https://cahandsandvoices.org/fall-vibes-fall-favorites-4/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey. What are you doing this weekend with your family? Lots of exciting things to celebrate! From Harvest Festivals, that Deaf and Hard of Hearing People have rich histories with To Halloween (Here are some accessibility tips from “Across - [Deaf Awareness Month](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-awareness-month-3/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey, through all the ups and downs. Most importantly: Know that as you walk this journey you are never alone and you are now part of a community, one that is not just widespread, but in fact, worldwide. This - [Fall Vibes/Fall Favorites](https://cahandsandvoices.org/fall-vibes-fall-favorites-2/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey. Fall is here, Fall is all about change, getting ready for winter, cozy crafts and exciting events! How do you adapt your Fall Favorites to be language rich? Here are two quick blogs to check out to support - [Fall Vibes/Fall Favorites](https://cahandsandvoices.org/fall-vibes-fall-favorites/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey. This is the start of a new season! Fall is here, Fall is all about change, getting ready for winter, cozy crafts and exciting events. What Fall activities do you like to do with your child? The blog - [Life Skills](https://cahandsandvoices.org/life-skills-3/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This week on #TogetherThursday, we are going to continue our theme of #LifeSkills There are also other ways to empower our DHH youth with independence and life skills! Lets discuss grocery/food shopping today! Finding ways to incorporate learning and language - [Deaf Awareness Month](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-awareness-month1/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey, through all the ups and downs. This month is Deaf Awareness Month! Happy September! For this week I wanted to showcase Deaf/Hard of Hearing influencers, both historical and recent. This is by no means a comprehensive list. There - [STEM Projects](https://cahandsandvoices.org/stem-projects/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you! This month we’ll be exploring STEM and STEAM. STEM stands for Science, Technology Engineering and Math STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, Both STEAM and STEM is something that is often overlooked in Education overall, especially for DHH children as we often focus - [Parent Reading](https://cahandsandvoices.org/parent-reading/) - Hello Friends!As we welcome a new year with new challenges and the ups and downs of life this month will be focused on readings for Parents. There is A LOT of reading for parents, from CA Hands & Voice’s own Communicator to books and articles from the Medical Community Here on #TogetherThursday we’ll start out with two - [#TogetherThursday is Now on our Website](https://cahandsandvoices.org/togetherthursday-is-now-on-our-website/) - ANNOUNCEMENT - #TogetherThursday is Now on our Website #TogetherThursday is a weekly resource blog that was created by our amazing CA Hands & Voices Advisory Board Member Leslie Manjarrez out of the early shelter in place period. This blog is tailored to highlight free resources and topics to parents of Deaf/Hard of Hearing children through videos, articles, links - [Back to School 3](https://cahandsandvoices.org/back-to-school-4/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This month on #TogetherThursday, we are wrapping up our Back to School Series! For our last week, lets take a look at whats available virtually, even if and when your child is in person, there’s a lot that’s up in - [Summer Learning Activities](https://cahandsandvoices.org/summer-learning-activities/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This week on #TogetherThursday, as summer continues to unfold, there is the topic of “Summer Learning” What is “Summer Learning”? Unlike “Traditional” learning or schooling, or other structured supports that are possible with sitting down and studying, such as reading, writing, - [Life Skills](https://cahandsandvoices.org/life-skills/) - Hello Friends, Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This week and next on #TogetherThursday, we are going to touch on #LifeSkills. In supporting DHH children we often focus on self-advocacy, which looks like ensuring that DHH children understand their own access to spaces, conversations, friendships and opportunities. There are - [Life Skills](https://cahandsandvoices.org/life-skills-2/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is supporting you and your child on your journey! This week on #TogetherThursday, we are going to continue to discuss about #LifeSkills In supporting DHH children we often focus on self-advocacy, which looks like ensuring that DHH children understand their own access to spaces, conversations, friendships and opportunities. There - [Deaf Awareness Month](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-awareness-month/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey, through all the ups and downs. This month is Deaf Awareness Month! Happy September! For this week I wanted to highlight Deaf made films. Most recently there’s been a lot of buzz about different movies showcasing Deaf and - [Deaf Awareness Month](https://cahandsandvoices.org/deaf-awareness-month-2/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey, through all the ups and downs. This month continues to be Deaf Awareness Month! Happy September! For this week I wanted to showcase Deaf/Hard of Hearing children who are out there, sharing their stories with the world. Maybe - [Fall Vibes/Fall Favorites](https://cahandsandvoices.org/fall-vibes-fall-favorites-3/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you and your child on your journey. Fall is here! With Fall comes Fall Sports!!! Football and Cross Country! Did you know that there are so many athletes that have varying hearing levels? Learn about Deaf/HH football players over the years And learn about the USA - [STEM Projects Veterans Day](https://cahandsandvoices.org/stem-projects-veterans-day/) - Hello Friends, California Hands & Voices is here to support you! Today we’d like to take a pause in our STEM posts and bring for #TogetherThursday and discuss resources for military families. Happy Veterans Day, thank you to those who serve and have served in the military. Hands & Voices has many resources available to - [School Guides](https://cahandsandvoices.org/school-guides/) - Hello Friends! CA Hands & Voices is here for you! Can you believe we are half way through the traditional school year??? Many parents always ask: Where can we find what we need? How do we figure out what works best for my child? What can schools DO for my child? This month will be - [California's Hearing Aid Program by CA Department of Health Care Services](https://cahandsandvoices.org/california-s-hearing-aid-program-by-ca-depart-of-heath-care-services/) - Get the Webinar Meeting Link and Submit questions you have about California's Hearing Aid Program by visiting the latest eblast sent to our mailing list. - [Press Release - CA H&V Introduces CARES CPRC](https://cahandsandvoices.org/press-release-ca-h-v-introduces-cares-cprc/) - ****PARA PUBLICACIÓN INMEDIATA**** Lea este anuncio en español haga clic aquí FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE California Hands & Voices introduces CARES CPRC Community, Advocacy, Resources, Empowerment Support Community Parent Resource Center California Hands & Voices is proud to announce their newest program CARES CPRC. According to Gallaudet Research Institute, approximately 40-60% Deaf and Hard of Hearing - [California Hands & Voices presenta CARES CPRC - Español](https://cahandsandvoices.org/california-hands-voices-presenta-cares-cprc-espanol/) - Español California Hands & Voices presenta CARES CPRC Comunidad, Abogacia, Recursos, Empoderamiento, Soporte Centro Comunitario de Recursos para Padres Para mas informacion contacte: (Español / ingles) JGoyos@carescprc.org (ingles) CShahid@carescprc.org Los padres están invitados a asistir a nuestro Lanzamiento virtual para obtener más información sobre CARES y los servicios que ofrecemos GRATIS para familias - [Welcome New Families! From Hands & Voice HQ](https://cahandsandvoices.org/welcome-new-families-from-hands-voice-hq/) - A special welcome to you, new family just starting your journey with your child who is deaf or hard of hearing. This community was founded by parents for parents just like you! Whether your child was recently identified is a baby or an older child/young adult, Hands & Voices would like to extend the offer to walk alongside you and provide support. We - [Hearing Aid Coverage for Children Program - Update 4/19/22](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hearing-aid-coverage-for-children-program-update-4-19-22/) - DHCS Haccp HEARING AID COVERAGE FOR CHILDREN PROGRAM For information, call (833) 956-2878 Does your child need a hearing aid? Join us for a discussion on Thursday, April 28, 2022 Webinar for Families and Caregivers Two webinar sessions are being offered for your convenience. Both will present the same information. 11:30 a.m. online at: 6:30 - [Today is #GivingTuesday](https://cahandsandvoices.org/today-is-givingtuesday/) - Today is #GivingTuesday We hope that you will consider a donation to @HandsandVoices because those donations directly support chapters around the nation, including California Hands & Voices. THANK YOU for your support! To make a donation please visit their website or consider a donation to this FB Fundraiser. - [Change is Inevitable](https://cahandsandvoices.org/change-is-inevitable/) - by Cora Shahid, California H&V Life is full of transitions (and that can be scary at times). Johanna Wonderly recently announced she is stepping aside as the ASTra Coordinator in California, serving from the start of the program until February 2023. We are incredibly grateful for her passion in improving outcomes for all Deaf/Hard of hearing - [Bringing ASL Home for Families](https://cahandsandvoices.org/bringing-asl-home-for-families/) - Razi M. Zarchy, MS, CCC-SLP and Leah C. Geer, PhD Our names are Razi Zarchy and Leah Geer. Razi is a hearing speech-language pathologist (SLP) with over 10 years of experience in deaf education. Leah is a deaf Associate Professor of Deaf Studies at California State University, Sacramento. She has 10 years of experience teaching - [Working Families Need Different Supports](https://cahandsandvoices.org/working-families-need-different-supports/) - By Kasey Cain, California H&V Nothing went according to plan with my oldest son’s birth. He was sunny-side up and his heart rate dropped seven times in labor. After many attempts to reposition, I finally had a C-section. He didn’t pass his first hearing screening but was very difficult to soothe. On day two, he - [HACCP town hall meeting slide deck](https://cahandsandvoices.org/haccp-town-hall-meeting-slide-deck/) - Thank you to those who came to the California Department of Healthcare Services Hearing Aid Coverage for Children Program (HACCP) town hall meeting! We hope you found the live Q&A with DHCS staff helpful! For those who were not able to attend, you can access the slide deck here. Additional information - [Guide #2](https://cahandsandvoices.org/guide-2/) - Hello Friends! CA Hands & Voices is here for you! Here we are closer and closer to Winter Break! This month will be dedicated to sharing guides that can support you with these questions. This guide discusses what the LRE could look like for your DHH child. Whats an LRE you ask? Its the Least - [School Guides](https://cahandsandvoices.org/school-guides-2/) - Hello Friends! Happy New Year! We hope that this new year for you and your family is filled with everything you hope for. To close out this month on school guides, we come across one that is shared straight from the Hands & Voices website: the PARC Checklist. This is called the “Placement and Readiness - [Living with TCS](https://cahandsandvoices.org/living-with-tcs/) - Alysa was born with TCS, and bilateral Microtia-Atresia. Treacher Collins Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects the way the face develops; it is estimated that it occurs in approximately 1 in 50,000 live births. Microtia is a birth defect that occurs 1 in 10,000 live births, and Atresia is absence or underdevelopment of - [#TogetherThursday](https://cahandsandvoices.org/togetherthursday/) - #TogetherThursday is a weekly resource blog that was created by CA Hands & Voices Advisory Board Member Leslie Manjarrez out of the early shelter in place period. This blog is tailored to highlight free resources and topics to parents of Deaf/Hard of Hearing children through videos, articles, links to further reading, activities and more. #TogetherThursday ## Pages - [Home Page](https://cahandsandvoices.org/) - California Hands & Voices "What works for your child is what makes the choice right"TM California Hands & Voices is dedicated to supporting families with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in a respectful and non-judgmental manner regarding language opportunities, communication tools or educational approaches. We're a parent-driven, non-profit organization providing families with - [Calendar of Events](https://cahandsandvoices.org/calendar-of-events/) - **** Coming Soon *** We’re building this page to better serve our community. Thank you for your patience! California Hands & Voices shares upcoming events hosted by CA H&V and our community partners to help families access information, resources, and connections. Community Partner events are hosted by outside organizations and may not fully reflect our - [Southern California Family Camp](https://cahandsandvoices.org/southern-california/) - Welcome to the Southern California Family Camp! Registration Coming Soon We're excited to invite you to our flagship Family Camp, hosted by California Hands & Voices over Memorial Day weekend in Julian, California (near San Diego). Since 2000, this camp has made a meaningful impact on DHH children and their families by offering a weekend - [🎁Make a Donation](https://cahandsandvoices.org/make-donation/) - At California Hands & Voices, we believe every child deserves to thrive—and every family deserves support. As a nonprofit parent-driven organization, we rely on the generosity of people like you to bring meaningful connection, resources, and joy to families raising Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) children across California. Your gift fuels real, lasting impact. - [Board of Directors](https://cahandsandvoices.org/board-of-directors/) - Executive Officers Kasey Cain, KCain@cahandsandvoices.org Board President: Kasey Cain and her husband have two boys and live in Northern California. Kasey is the current Board President of CA Hands & Voices and a recent Doctor of Audiology graduate, working as an itinerant educational audiologist for the CCHAT Center in Sacramento. After her first son was born with hearing loss, - [Meet our Professional Advisory Board](https://cahandsandvoices.org/meet-our-team/) - Professional Advisory Board Our Advisory Board helps CA H&V Board of Directors gain new insights and explore new opportunities by stimulating robust, high-quality conversations thanks to their diverse professional and lived experiences. Dr. Michelle Hu - Au. D. / DHH Adult Anna Phillips - Professional at CEID / DHH Adult Mallorie Evans - Educational Audiologist, - [Newsletter Archive](https://cahandsandvoices.org/newsletter-archive/) - Join California Hands & Voices to receive all newsletters and The Hands & Voices Communicator—whether mailed or emailed. Visit our website to Become a Member 🌍 The Hands & Voices Communicator Annual Digital Edition Each year, The Hands & Voices Communicator brings together stories from families, professionals, and leaders nationwide. The print edition is mailed - [💙 Join Our Team and Make a Difference!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/volunteer/) - California Hands & Voices is a parent-driven nonprofit supporting families raising children who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, or DeafPlus. We’re looking for caring, motivated, and diverse individuals ready to share their time and talents—whether that’s through serving on our Board of Directors, joining a committee, helping locally, or volunteering occasionally when your schedule - [Valentine's Skate Party in Roseville, CA](https://cahandsandvoices.org/valentines-skate-party-in-roseville-ca/) - February 17, 2025 at 5:30 pm Roller King 889 Riverside Ave Roseville, CA 95678 Skate Night Includes Free: Admission Skate Rental Meal Ticket for 1 slice of Pizza & a Soda La Noche de Patinaje incluye: Entrada gratuita Alquiler de patines Vale de comida para una porción de pizza y un refresco - [NorCal Family Camp Registration Information](https://cahandsandvoices.org/nocal-camp-registration-open/) - [NorCal Camp Volunteer Application](https://cahandsandvoices.org/nocal-camp-volunteer-application/) - [✍️ Submit Your Article](https://cahandsandvoices.org/submit-your-article-today/) - Submit Your Article to The Hands & Voices Communicator Do you have a story, insight, or lesson that could support and inspire others? The Hands & Voices Communicator is a national quarterly newspaper featuring real stories and expert articles from families, professionals, and Deaf/Hard of Hearing (D/HH) adults across the country. Your words can spark - [Recursos en Espanol](https://cahandsandvoices.org/recursos-en-espanol-2/) - 📍En California: Contacto en Español ¡No estás solo!Aquí encontrarás información confiable, recursos en español y apoyo para familias de niños sordos o con pérdida auditiva en todo California. Contacta a nuestro equipo bilingüe (español/inglés) para recibir apoyo y conexión con recursos:Sur de California: Soniz Nunez – snunez@cahandsandvoices.org Norte de California: Leslie Manjarrez – lmanjarrez@cahandsandvoices.org California - [💖Welcome Messages from Hands & Voices](https://cahandsandvoices.org/we-are-ca-video/) - Welcome to California Hands & Voices – You Belong Here At California Hands & Voices, you and your family will build lasting friendships with others who truly understand this unique journey—families and professionals alike. Whether you're just beginning or have been walking this path for a while, you belong here. If this is your first - [👥Membership](https://cahandsandvoices.org/become-a-member/) - 🌟 Why Become a Member of California Hands & Voices? At California Hands & Voices, membership means connection, support, and meaningful impact. Our members include parents and caregivers of children who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafPlus, or DeafBlind, as well as grandparents, DHH adults, professionals, and partner organizations—all united in working toward successful outcomes - [Hands & Voices at-a-Glance](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hv-programs-projects/) - If you’d like to explore resources available to you under a specific program or project — feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you! Hands & Voices Programs and Projects Hands & Voices at-a-Glance Hands & Voices Programs Hands & Voices Programs are formalized, require an application & approval process, include program operations & policy requirements, - [CA H&V Events, Both Virtual & In-Person](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events-virtual-in-person/) - When you become a CA H&V member, you’ll receive: Direct email updates about events and resources The Hands & Voices Communicator quarterly newspaper Discounts to select events throughout the year 👉 Join CA H&V today to stay informed and connected! Not ready to become a member?No problem! You can still stay in the loop by - [Mission, Vision and History](https://cahandsandvoices.org/history-mission-and-vision/) - Mission California Hands & Voices is dedicated to supporting families with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in a respectful and non-judgmental manner regarding language opportunities, communication tools or educational approaches. We’re a parent-driven, non-profit organization providing families with the resources, networks, and information to improve communication access and educational outcomes for their - [Parent & DHH Adult Perspectives](https://cahandsandvoices.org/welcome-to-dhh-adult-stories/) - Stories that connect. Journeys that inspire. 💬 Why These Stories Matter As a parent, you may be wondering: What will my child’s future look like? I’ve never met a Deaf or Hard of Hearing adult—where do I start? Who will my child’s friends be? How can I help my child grow up strong, confident, and - [🌟 Hands & Voices Resource Round-Up](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hv-resource-round-up/) - Empowering families. Supporting professionals. Celebrating our D/HH children. Below is a list of some of the resources provided by Hands & Voices Headquarters and the FL3 Center. Visit their website for other resources and contact Hands & Voices or California Hands & Voices Board or Staff if you have any questions or need individualized support - [Advocacy Support & Training (ASTra)](https://cahandsandvoices.org/astra/) - Talk with a Trained Educational Parent Advocate Scroll Down for the link to Request 1:1 Support from our ASTra team Are you navigating the special education system for your child who is Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, or DeafPlus? Our trained Educational Parent Advocates are here to support you. We help families understand the laws, - [Want to Share Your Story?](https://cahandsandvoices.org/want-to-share-your-story/) - Family Stories - Submit Here DHH Adult Stories - Submit Here - [Social Media links](https://cahandsandvoices.org/social-media/) - 📱 Where to Find California Hands & Voices ✅ Follow, Like, Comment, and Share✅ Tag us in your stories using #CAHandsandVoices Facebook Group Facebook Page Instagram YouTube We’re here for you—every step of the journey. Connect with us on social media to discover: 🧡 Real family stories and helpful resources📅 Upcoming workshops, meetups & events🎉 - [Northern California Family Camp](https://cahandsandvoices.org/northern-california/) - Labor Day Weekend: August 29th-31st, 2025 Registration for 2025 is NOW OPEN! The Northern California Family Camp will be held at Lions Camp Ross Relles, in Nevada City, CA . Below you will find information on camp location, registration details (including the deadline to register!), camp fees, a sample weekend schedule, and links to the - [About CA H&V Family Camps](https://cahandsandvoices.org/family-camp/) - Welcome to Family Camp — The Heart of Our Community Since 2000, California Hands & Voices Family Camp has offered families a meaningful and joyful place to connect, recharge, and grow together. Held in beautiful natural settings across the state, Family Camp is a place where families raising Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) children - [Recursos en Español](https://cahandsandvoices.org/recursos-en-espanol/) - Nuevos Recursos! Recursos en Espanol Consejos Cortos de Abogacía para Padres de niños Sordos y Pérdida Auditiva (D/HH) Audiología De Profesionales Guías para padres Perspectiva del adulto sordo Enlaces a recursos de audio Prevención del abuso infantil Educación, Cuentos Otros recursos El Comité de Consejeros de H&V para el Apoyo a las Familias Latinas Manos - [CA H&V and ASTra Flyers](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ca-v-flyers/) - Scroll down for our ASTra flyer CA H&V General Flyers We’re excited to share our flyers with you—created to help spread the word about California Hands & Voices and the support we provide to families raising children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. These flyers are a powerful way to connect families and professionals - [Ticket Receipt](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ticket-receipt/) - [Ticket Details](https://cahandsandvoices.org/ticket-details/) - [🤝Workplace Giving](https://cahandsandvoices.org/employee-giving-programs/) - Amplify Your Impact Through Employee Giving Thank you for your interest in donating.Giving through your workplace is a simple and meaningful way to support California Hands & Voices and the families we serve—those raising children who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafPlus or DeafBlind. If your employer offers a workplace giving or matching gift program, consider reaching - [🤝 Know a Family Who Needs Support?](https://cahandsandvoices.org/refer-a-family/) - Growing Our Community Starts With You — Help Us Reach More Families Have you benefited from the support, resources, or community at California Hands & Voices? Or do you work closely with Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) children and their families? We’d love your help! We don’t receive automatic referrals. Instead, we rely on - [Refer a Family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/refer-a-family-2/) - [Staff and ASTra Team](https://cahandsandvoices.org/meet-our-team-copy/) - Cora Shahid CA H&V Executive Director and ASTra- Co-Coordinator CShahid @cahandsandvoices.org Cora Shahid and her husband Naseer live in San Diego, California, where they are proud parents to Christina, Zain, and Ibrahim-both Zain and Ibrahim are Deaf/Hard of Hearing. Cora is deeply passionate about empowering families to find joy and strength in raising their Deaf - [Community Code of Kindness Position Statement](https://cahandsandvoices.org/community-code-of-kindness-position-statement/) - Community Code of Kindness Position Statement Several organizations helped to create and adopt the following collaborative interactions for our national partnerships. We take individual and organizational responsibility for adding value and contributing to the ethical success of this grassroots kindness movement. We accept the personal and organizational commitment to advocate for these agreements by engaging - [Resources](https://cahandsandvoices.org/resources-2/) - You're not alone-we're here to support you. California Hands & Voices is here to help. If you're looking for something specific, please don't hesitate to reach out-we'd love to support you on your journey. 📬 Contact a Board Member Near You🤝 Meet Our ASTra Educational Advocacy Team📝 Request 1:1 Advocacy Support from our ASTra Program - [Research/Surveys, DeafEd.net (HQ)](https://cahandsandvoices.org/research-surveys-deafed-net-hq/) - Research / Survey Opportunities: visit the HQ website here Agencies, Organizations, Universities and others are often looking for participation of families and professionals for current research and survey projects. Each opportunity listed below has contact information if you would like to participate. Please contact the specific entity that is sponsoring each research/survey opportunity if you - [🌟 California Hands & Voices](https://cahandsandvoices.org/9-regions-to-better-serve-california/) - 1 Chapter, 9 Regions, Statewide Support California Hands & Voices is proud to serve as one unified, statewide chapter of the national Hands & Voices organization. To better support families throughout our diverse state, California is divided into nine regions. Our goal is to have parent leaders from each region on our board—leaders who understand - [💻Get Help from an ASTra Advocate](https://cahandsandvoices.org/get-help/) - We appreciate your interest in the Hands & Voices ASTra Educational Advocacy Program. While it can be difficult to put into words the many concerns you may have about your child, please fill out this form completely. It will help us understand your situation and will give us the necessary information to support you in - [Contact Us](https://cahandsandvoices.org/contact-us-2/) - Questions? Comments? We'd Love to Hear From You At California Hands & Voices, we're here to support, connect, and empower families raising Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. Whether you're a parent, professional, or community partner-we look forward to connecting with you! For the fastest response, we encourage you to reach out directly to one - [Donate](https://cahandsandvoices.org/donate/) - [ASTra Advocacy Support](https://cahandsandvoices.org/astra-advocacy-support/) - [Advocacy Support](https://cahandsandvoices.org/advocacy-support/) - [ASTra Educational Advocacy Event Registration/ Registro de evento dedefensa educativa ASTra](https://cahandsandvoices.org/astra-training-registration/) - Flyers Event Details Date and Time / Fecha y hora: , from 8:30am-5:30pm Location / Ubicación: , CA Deadline to Order Guidebook / La fecha límite para realizar pedidos de la guía: 6 weeks prior to training on Registration Fees / Tarifas de inscripción Parent - [Testimonials](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonials-2/) - What people are saying about California Hands & Voices Share your own thoughts with other parents by submitting a testimonial about California Hands & Voices. Comments from parents and professionals: Comments from California individuals who have been trained in ASTra: - [Southern California Family Camp Registration](https://cahandsandvoices.org/socal-camp-registration-open/) - 2025 Camp Information Memorial Day Weekend - May 23-25 2025 - General camp info Family Registration --- January 10 - April 30 Volunteers, Speakers, and ASL Interpreters: Register January 3 - April 30 Volunteers, please register via our Volunteer Application Important Notes on Camper Fees 💲Members save with a reduced registration rate 📆Each camper can - [Observe, Understand and Respond: O.U.R. Children’s Safety and Success Project](https://cahandsandvoices.org/our-project/) - - Video Introduction to O.U.R.- O.U.R. ~ Observe, Understand, and Respond We don’t like to think about it, but our kids who are deaf or hard of hearing are at a higher risk for maltreatment — bullying, abuse and neglect. Like any children, they are at risk. As children who might not always be able - [O.U.R. Recordings](https://cahandsandvoices.org/o-u-r-audio-recordings/) - Audio Recordings/Transcripts and Webinars of Previous O.U.R. Special Guest Speakers/Presentations The following content has been provided by the Hands & Voices national organization. Reducing Harm From Toxic Stress and Abuse December 2024 A presentation by Amy and Michael Curtiss Watch Webinar Keeping Our Students Safe at School: The H&V Safety Attachment February 2024 The Hands - [O.U.R. Helpful Articles](https://cahandsandvoices.org/o-u-r-helpful-articles/) - Articles on O.U.R from the Hands & Voices Communicator The following content has been provided by the Hands & Voices national organization. One Family’s Journey - Impatient to Know More D/HH Plus Column Reflecting on Early Intervention Audiologists Screening for Bullying Problems Saliva. I Did Not See that Coming One Family’s Journey: False Positive Fades to - [Bring ASTra Training to Your Community](https://cahandsandvoices.org/bring-astra-training-to-your-community/) - Sponsor ASTra Training in Your Community We Hear You. We Know There's a Need. Bring ASTra Level 1 Training directly to your community! This impactful training empowers parents, professionals, and community members to advocate effectively for Deaf/Hard of Hearing (DHH) students, ensuring they achieve their fullest potential. How It Works: With sponsorship, our experienced trainers - [ASTra Parent Satisfaction Survey](https://cahandsandvoices.org/parent-satisfaction-survey/) - Thank you for your participation in the Advocacy Support and Training (ASTra) program. We hope that you found the program helpful and that your ASTra Advocate was unbiased, informative, supportive, and knowledgeable in his/her advocacy efforts. We would appreciate your feedback by taking a few moments to fill out the following survey. With your responses, - [H& & Programs and Projects](https://cahandsandvoices.org/h-programs-and-projects/) - [Hands & Voices/ FL3](https://cahandsandvoices.org/hands-voices-fl3/) - [Hands & Voices Family Leadership in Language and Learning (FL3)](https://cahandsandvoices.org/fl3/) - The goal of the FL3 Center is to increase state capacity for family-to-family support, develop family leadership skills, and engage D/HH adults as mentors to families across state/territory EHDI programs and other EHDI systems stakeholders. FL3 Resources On the FL3 website you can explore resources on a variety of topics including: DHH Involvement Language, Literacy - [SoCal Camp Volunteer Application](https://cahandsandvoices.org/camp-volunteer-application/) - Thank you for your interest in volunteering for Family Camp. Our volunteers are very important to the success of camp. Each year we are inspired and thrilled by the number of passionate people who want to spend their Memorial Day weekend with us! Volunteer applications will be accepted until April 15th, followed by interviews through - [Inland Valley DHH & Microtia Atresia Family Camp](https://cahandsandvoices.org/inland-valley-camp/) - Summer Weekend each year We hope you will be joining us this year! The Inland Valley DHH & Microtia Atresia Family Camp is held on Labor Day weekend in the Inland Valley, California. Below you will find information on camp location, registration details, deadline to register (when the cabins are full, registration will close), camp - [Rethinking Accessibility in Post-COVID-19 Classrooms](https://cahandsandvoices.org/rethinking-accessibility-in-post-covid-19-classrooms/) - All contributed material is solely the viewpoint of the authors and may not reflect the viewpoint of California Hands & Voices. Quick Reference Downloadable PDF quick reference sheet to help facilitate the discussion for when schools reopen. Download PDFDescargar PDF en Español Rethinking Accessibility Resources Face Mask Resources Electronic Accessibility Keeping DHH Peers Together Assistive - [O.U.R. Resources](https://cahandsandvoices.org/o-u-r-resources/) - We've collected the following resources you may find helpful. Please let us know if there are additional items we should add to our list. Resource List Child Abuse and Neglect: Helping Parents Talk to Children Child Abuse and Neglect: Resources for Parents The H&V O.U.R. Traveling Exhibit booth Stop Bullying or Start Paying – pdf - [Thank you for becoming a member!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/thank-you-for-becoming-a-member-of-california-hands-voices/) - Thank you for your payment to cover your membership dues for this year, it is appreciated. Your transaction has been completed, and a receipt for your membership has been emailed to you. You may also log into your PayPal account to view transaction details. If your family moves to a new mailing address please let - [Thank you for contacting us](https://cahandsandvoices.org/thank-you-for-contacting-california-hands-voices/) - One of our board members will respond shortly, typically within 24 hours. In the meantime, we invite you to: Join our California Hands & Voices Facebook Group. Our Facebook Group is a great way to connect with families locally and throughout the state. Parents, Professionals and DHH Community members are invited and typically are approved - [Assistive Technology needs](https://cahandsandvoices.org/rethinking-accessibility-in-post-covid-19-classrooms/assistive-technology-needs/) - [Mailing List Signup](https://cahandsandvoices.org/mailing-list-signup/) - Are you interested in receiving local and statewide information from California Hands & Voices about events and related resources? Please submit your contact information below and we would love to add you to our mailing list. To prevent our e-mails to going into your spam folder we recommend that you save info@cahandsandvoices.org to your contacts. We strive - [Recursos en Español](https://cahandsandvoices.org/1153-2/) - [CARES CPRC](https://cahandsandvoices.org/cares/) - CARES CPRC is a Program of California Hands & Voices We have expanded our services in San Diego and Imperial County Approximately 40-60% Deaf and Hard of Hearing children have an additional disability under IDEA. (Gallaudet Research Institute Research 2005). At CARES CPRC our services empower families raising children with a wide range of disabilities - [Needs Assessment Results](https://cahandsandvoices.org/needs-assessment-results/) - The California Hands & Voices Statewide Needs Assessment California Hands & Voices conducted a statewide needs assessment in late 2018. Thank you to everyone who completed the survey and for helping California Hands & Voices grow. The ultimate goal of the Needs Assessment is to determine the support we currently provide and to identify the - [Thank you for your application](https://cahandsandvoices.org/thank-you-for-your-application/) - Our advocacy services depend largely on voluntary support. ASTra services are free to families, but your membership donation to the local Hands & Voices Chapter helps provide this type of support to families, and priority is given to members. If you'd like to join please complete an Membership application. The local chapter will call/email to - [Testimonials](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonials/) - Share your own thoughts with other parents by submitting a testimonial about California Hands & Voices . Comments from parents and professionals: {loadmoduleid 188} Comments from California individuals who have been trained in ASTra: {loadmoduleid 189} - [Face Mask Requirements](https://cahandsandvoices.org/face-mask-requirements/) - Effective Communication is a requirement of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In November of 2014 the Department of Justice (DOJ) and US Department of Education (DOE) came out with a joint FAQ to clarify that schools are responsible for following the ADA, in addition to IDEA and Section 504. As we begin the discussion - [Our Families' Stories](https://cahandsandvoices.org/our-families-stories/) - We are connected and united through our stories Our members are diverse and we thank the families below for sharing their unique journey with us. - [Camp Sample Schedule](https://cahandsandvoices.org/camp-sample-schedule/) - Sample Camp Schedule Friday 4:00 pm—Arrival and check-in 6:00 pm—Dinner 7:00 pm—Orientation & parent’s icebreaker | Children’s activities 8:45 pm—Parent pick-up children Saturday 7:45 am—Breakfast 8:30 am—Group photo | Family opening circle 9:15 am—Parent sessions | Children’s activities 12:00 pm—Lunch 1:00 pm—Parent sessions | Children’s activities 2:30 pm—Family free time (games, t-shirt tie dying, pool, - [Thank you for making a donation!](https://cahandsandvoices.org/donate-thank-you/) - Thank you for your generosity in making a donation to California Hands & Voices! Your donation is appreciated and is tax deductible! We would be happy to provide you with a personalized letter that includes the amount of your donation and our EIN# for your records. Please contact our Treasurer with the subject line "Donation" ## Content Modules - [GENERIC-Camp Volunteer](https://cahandsandvoices.org/?module=camp-volunteer) - Volunteer at Family Camp Thank you for your interest in volunteering for Family Camp. Our volunteers are very important to the success of camp. Each year we are inspired and thrilled by the amount of people who are passionate and want to spend their Memorial Day weekend with us! We will contact the 22-24 volunteers - [Work in progress](https://cahandsandvoices.org/?module=619-2) - We're making some exciting updates Come back to see our new content soon! - [GENERIC-Address](https://cahandsandvoices.org/?module=address) - [GENERIC-Camp Donations](https://cahandsandvoices.org/?module=camp-donations) - Much Needed Donations! Donations are needed both to cover our fabulous volunteers who help make camp possible and to keep the per-person rate as low as possible for families. Thank you in advance for your support! Generous donation of time, money, and resources from organizations and individuals like you make everything we do achievable. How - [GENERIC PayPal Donate Button](https://cahandsandvoices.org/?module=paypal-donate-button) - [GENERIC- Address](https://cahandsandvoices.org/?module=generic-address) - California Hands & Voices c/o Cora Shahid 15274 Andorra Way San Diego CA 92129 ## Testimonials - [Parent](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/957/) - As the parent of a child with deafness and additional disabilities, making language a priority in the educational system was often difficult and often continues to be. It takes an enormous effort to advocate in order for professionals to see our children with multiple special needs and sensory differences, as worthy of investing in and - [Parent4](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent4/) - Hearing the Supreme Court rulings and what they had to say in favor of our children was reassuring that our advocacy isn’t because we’re “that one crazy parent” it’s because we know what’s best and sometimes it’s hard work to get what our child needs and it may be hard but once that barrier is - [Parent1](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent/) - Impossible to choose my favorite part!! Many thanks to everyone who helped make this happen. - [Parent8](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent5-2/) - Such a great workshop! Thank you! I'm looking forward to passing the info along to the families and the professionals I work with. - [Parent7](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent7/) - Thank you for sharing all of the info on ADA! Timely accommodations according to child/family preference!! Huge for our kiddos! - [Parent6](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent6/) - Loved EVERYTHING about this training! I left feeling soooo empowered! Thank you to the presenters and for California Hands& Voices for making it happen! - [Parent5](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent5/) - The plethora of resources provided to us to help guide us in the right direction no matter what direction we take. - [Parent3](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent3/) - You guys did an awesome job! So glad we were able to participate! We had so much fun even though it’s was a long day he was happy at the end of the day, again you guys did an exceptional job! I can’t wait for the next one! - [Parent2](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent2/) - I was so excited to learn about the Endrew case. - [Grace B](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/grace-b/) - I just wanted to thank everyone who reached out and offered advice and support when I posted about my district suddenly removing my son from the case load of our (now previous) ES provider. I want to especially thank Johanna Wonderly, Rhonda Savage, and Nancy Grosz Sager, who each provided me personal help and invaluable - [Deaf Adult](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/deaf-adult/) - My success as a deaf adult is hugely credited to my parents. My confidence as an (deaf) adult was a direct result of their unfaltering high expectations, patience, work-ethic, and persistence in ensuring that I had equal access to education and the opportunity to receive quality education. This was important to them, and was drilled - [Early Start](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/944/) - I am always grateful for the feeling of belonging and family that California Hands & Voices gives me. I am happy to support how I can. I wholeheartedly support your mission and vision and work hard to ensure all families make informed choices. Your families are what I envision my families will one day be, - [DHH Adult & CI recipient](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/952/) - CA H&V is an excellent, informative and welcoming group for DHH children, adults and their family members. I love learning and growing from the different perspectives shared and also having a space to vent (and many times inspire) others on their own hearing loss journey. ~ DHH adult, bilateral cochlear implant recipient, pediatric audiologist - [Parent - Grace](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/parent-grace/) - I just wanted to thank everyone who reached out and offered advice and support when I posted about my district suddenly removing my son from the case load of our (now previous) ES provider. I want to especially thank Johanna Wonderly, Rhonda Savage, and Nancy Grosz Sager, who each provided me personal help and invaluable - [Sacramento Dad](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/sacramento-dad/) - We love going to the Northern California Hands & Voices Camp. It's always a lot of fun! Our family enjoys meeting other parents of DHH children and the kids can not stop talking about it for weeks after. The Facebook group has a lot of interesting topics, and our family loves the support. keep on - [Deaf Plus Parent](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/deaf-plus-parent/) - Finding out that our second child was Deaf brought new and unexpected challenges to our family. We all learned to sign, but since everyone else in our family is hearing it is not always easy. Our family has found encouragement from other families with DHH children at CA H&V events such as park days, ice - [Professor/Teacher](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/professor-teacher/) - I am forever grateful for the support provided by Hands & Voices. Hands & Voices was always a valuable resource for the families I taught while working as a DHH Parent/Infant teacher for 27 years. I have connected families who found friendships, advocacy and support. Some have become very active as part of Hands & - [ToD](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial/tod/) - As a teacher of the deaf, I am grateful for California Hands & Voices. The support and education that is provided to families really impacts educational programming. Empowered parents can always overcome the “we don’t provide that” mentality that some school districts might have. Parents do help us make the changes that is necessary in ## Events - [Testing - CA H&V Event](https://cahandsandvoices.org/event/testing-ca-hv-event/) - Testing ## Events - [TESTING 2](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/testing-2/) - [Testing - CA H&V Event](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/testing-ca-hv-event/) - Testing - [Ontario Event](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/ontario-event/) - [Region 8 Local Event](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/region-8-local-event/) - [testing community event](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/testing-community-event/) - testing community event, to see what it looks like. - [Testing CA H&V Northern CA Family Camp](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/testing-ca-hv-northern-ca-family-camp/) - test - [Test](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/test/) - Join us for a night of soulful melodies and heartfelt performances at our Acoustic Open Mic Night! Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your talent in a warm and welcoming environment. Bring your guitar, ukulele, or just your voice, and share your favorite songs or ## Categories - [News](https://cahandsandvoices.org/category/news/) - [Blog](https://cahandsandvoices.org/category/blog/) - [Family Stories](https://cahandsandvoices.org/category/family-story/) - [DHH Stories](https://cahandsandvoices.org/category/dhh-stories/) - [#TogetherThursday](https://cahandsandvoices.org/category/together-thursday/) ## Tags - [family](https://cahandsandvoices.org/tag/family/) - [story](https://cahandsandvoices.org/tag/story/) - [dhh](https://cahandsandvoices.org/tag/dhh/) - [adult](https://cahandsandvoices.org/tag/adult/) - [Deaf Mentor](https://cahandsandvoices.org/tag/deaf-mentor/) - [EHDI](https://cahandsandvoices.org/tag/ehdi/) ## Categories - [Parents & Professionals](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial-category/parents-and-professionals/) - [ASTra trainees](https://cahandsandvoices.org/testimonial-category/astra-trainees/) ## Calendars - [California Hands & Voices Events](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/calendar/ca-hv-calendar/) - [Events from Our Community Partners](https://cahandsandvoices.org/events/calendar/partner-events/)