Washington State Association of the Deaf
Washington State Association of the Deaf is dedicated to providing support to individuals facing various challenges. This includes assistance with communication access, education, employment, and advocacy. Our mission is to empower the Deaf community by ensuring access to vital resources and support tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances. We encourage you to reach out for assistance as we are committed to helping you find the solutions you need.
Washington State Association of the Deaf’s OBJECTIVE
The Washington State Association of the Deaf (WSAD) serves as a vital organization operated by, for, and with the Deaf community. Its mission is to advocate for and enhance the quality of life for individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing, including deaf-blind individuals, parents of deaf children, interpreters, late-deafened adults, and Children of Deaf Adults (CODA), regardless of their ethnic background, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. WSAD focuses on several key areas:
Empowerment
It aims to enable Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to exercise self-determination and independence, promoting a higher quality of life necessary for self-reliance and productivity within Washington State.
Advocacy
The organization advocates for equal opportunities across social, educational, and employment sectors.
Rights Education
WSAD is committed to educating and protecting the rights of the community regarding accessible services and equipment.
Sign Language Recognition
The organization recognizes American Sign Language (ASL) as the primary language for most Deaf individuals and strongly supports its utilization.
Cultural Preservation
The organization is dedicated to preserving and respecting the unique culture and heritage of the Deaf community.
Washington State Association of the Deaf's MISSION, GOALS & VISION
Moving forward, Washington State Association of the Deaf aims to:
Continue efforts to educate the public and increase its visibility while improving access within local communities and government.
Establish leadership programs specifically for Deaf and hard-of-hearing youth and adults.
Provide and host regional and state-wide conferences to foster community engagement.
Collaborate with local associations and clubs to strengthen community ties.
Enhance legislative and advocacy activities to support Deaf individuals.
Increase awareness and educational opportunities for parents of Deaf and hard-of-hearing children.
Sustain strong advocacy for enhanced education and accessibility for these children.
Explore the establishment of a retirement home dedicated to the needs of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.