The Power of Parent-to-Parent:

Every family who has a child who is deaf or hard of hearing has a different story to tell, yet we all share a common bond.  At Hands & Voices, we understand the power of parents coming together to support and learn from one another.  Families who are just beginning the journey can learn from veteran parents, the challenges as well as the joys, of raising a child who is deaf or hard of hearing.  For many parents, their only regret in the ‘early years’, is not connecting to other parents sooner!

What the Guide By Your Side can do for you!

The Hands & Voices  Parent Guide is a   parent of a deaf or hard of hearing child who has been trained to provide support and advocacy for other families.  Our coordinators have real life experience in raising a deaf/hh child, and are knowledgeable about the  issues encompassing  this journey.  These coordinators are available to respond to the individual needs of each family. Guides work with families with children of all ages.

Services:

Guides are always available to you when you need them. In Oregon our Guide By Your Side program is partially funded through the Oregon State EHDI program, which allows Guides to legally contact families. Parents can also contact Guides when they want support. Guides are available for one-on-one consultation via home visit, phone or email to give parents support on such issues as communication choices, emotional support, educational support, sibling and extended family issues, transitions, etc.

Parent-to-Parent Networking:  Our coordinators can connect you to: