What is the Knowledge Center on Deafness?

In 1996, the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) staff realized that a partnership with a private entity was needed in order to capitalize on available private and public funding to further enhance programs to serve the deaf and hard of hearing population of the Commonwealth. In some cases, additional funding is needed to firmly establish programs that have not been fully realized by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Historically, the KCDHH has enjoyed a close relationship with the Kentucky Association of the Deaf to implement innovative programs such as DeaFestival-Kentucky. However, it is apparent that the Kentucky Association of the Deaf does not focus on direct services because it is a membership-based organization; therefore, there is a need for an entity dedicated solely towards the development, funding, and implementation of programs to serve deaf and hard of hearing Kentuckians.

What are we trying to accomplish?

The purposes of the Knowledge Center on Deafness, Inc., are as follows:

1. To operate for the benefit of, to support certain functions on behalf of, and to carry out certain purposes and goals of the KCDHH;
2. To carry out any activities consistent with the Corporation's primary purpose and to further support and carry out the educational, cultural, intellectual and charitable goals of the KCDHH by raising funds to be used for the ultimate benefit of and the advancement of the quality of life for deaf and hard of hearing Kentuckians; and
3. To be responsive to the needs and concerns of the KCDHH and members of the deaf and hard of hearing community.

What is the focus of the Knowledge Center on Deafness, Inc.?

1. To consolidate existing funds that are now located in different places, such as the DeaFestival funding;
2. To organize successfulfundraising events to carry out activities approved by the foundation;
3. To pursue future grant opportunities to establish permanent programs and services (private or public) for deaf and hard of hearing individuals; and
4. To establish a permanent endowment fund and implement it to support KCD's future events.

What if I need more information or have other questions?

Please contact:

Anita Dowd
KY Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
632 Versailles Road
Frankfort, KY 40601

502-573-2604 (V/TTY)
anita.dowd@ky.gov
www.kcdhh.ky.gov