KCDHH is proud to support the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 34th Anniversary. On July 26th we celebrate this important civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. KCDHH’s Information, Referral and Advocacy (IRA) is here to advocate for deaf and hard of hearing community and the public, contact our office if you need an advocacy!

Celebrate. Learn. Share!

Kentucky State Parks is celebrating 100 years!

"Our state parks have provided unforgettable experiences for families for 100 years, from hiking the scenic hills of Appalachia to boating on the sparkling waters in Western Kentucky," said Governor Andy Beshear. "Kentucky tourism is a $13.8 billion industry, and our state parks play a significant role in offering unique opportunities to travelers. As we celebrate the centennial anniversary, I encourage everyone to support our state parks by exploring the wonderful experiences they provide."
Kentucky is home to 44 state parks, including 17 resort parks and 13 golf courses, with breathtaking views of mountain ranges, waterfalls, wildlife, scenic hiking trails, caves to explore, fishing, boating, kayaking, nationally recognized golf courses, camping, lodges, historic sites, museums and more offering opportunities for exploration, entertainment and education to Kentuckians and visitors from across the world.

Read more about the commemoration of the 100th anniversary!

Kentucky Hands & Voices Events

The Zoo is celebrating its seventh annual Deaf and Hard of Hearing Awareness Day with Kentucky Hands & Voices and the Kentucky Deaf-Blind Project on August 17, 10am to 2pm. ASL interpreters will be available at several habitats, keeper talks, and animal training demonstrations as well as the Zoo entrance to facilitate an inclusive and friendly day of learning in ASL for the deaf community.

If you have a child who is deaf or hard of hearing, they are eligible for a FREE ticket, but must pre-register. Discounted tickets are available for family and friends. Email for more information: info@kyhandsandvoices.org

KY Hands & Voices’ Annual Trivia Night & Silent Auction!

Costumes are encouraged but not required. Prizes will be given for best eras-themed costume and best group/table eras costume. Medieval Times, the Roarin’ 20s, Swingin’ 60s, a Swiftie…the choice is yours! Reserve your tickets now! All proceeds benefit Kentucky Hands & Voices.

Event to be held on November 2, 2024, 6:30 to 9:30 PM at The Foundry on Broadway, 317 West Broadway Street, Frankfort, KY.

Kentucky HLAA Walk4Hearing

Walk4Hearing is the Hearing Loss Association of America's (HLAA) community of support in action, breaking down barriers and empowering people with hearing loss. These Walks bring hope to people across the U.S., helping them discover they are not alone in facing the challenges of hearing loss.

Walks bring teams of family and friends together to raise funds for hearing health and support people on their journey with hearing loss. Join HLAA Kentucky Chapter, hearing care professionals and nonprofit and business partners committed to helping every person with hearing loss thrive on September 22 at Tom Sawyer Park in Louisville.

The Department of Teaching, Learning, and Educational Leadership at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is seeking applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Special Education/Deaf and Hard of Hearing for Academic Year 2024-2025.

Check out the job posting for more information and qualifications!

Protection & Advocacy will be traveling to various cities in Kentucky and hosting Voting Advocacy Events at public libraries across the state. They are inviting DHH community to the events to be informed about voting and participation in the upcoming election this November. Along with P&A’s attendance, the local County Clerk, a self-advocate speaker as well as accessible voting machines will be available for individuals to use and practice voting! Food and drink will also be provided! ASL interpreters will be provided upon request.

Please RSVP to reserve your spot!

• 8.2- Louisville, York Street Library, 2PM to 4PM
• 8.9- Lexington, Central Library, 2PM to 4PM
• 8.16- Morehead, Rowan County Library, 2PM to 4PM
• 8.23- Florence, Boone County Library (Florence Branch), 2PM to 4PM
• 8.30- Hazard, Perry County Library, 2PM to 4PM
• 9.6- Elizabethtown, Hardin County Library, 2PM to 4PM
• 9.13- Bowling Green, Warren County Library (Lisa Rice), 2PM to 4PM
• 9.20- Morganfield, Union County Library, 2PM to 4PM
• 9.27- Mayfield, Graves County Library, 2PM to 4PM
• 10.4- London, Laurel County Library, 2PM to 4PM

Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center compiled a comprehensive list of immersion programs designed for families to learn sign language and connect with their deaf and hard of hearing children. Additionally you’ll find an extensive directory of camps that specifically cater to deaf and hard of hearing children. You’ll find day programs, overnight camps, and programming that include siblings or CODAs (children of deaf adults).

View the interactive map of camps all over the country.

Follow KSD Outreach on Facebook and Kentucky Hands & Voices
for any events in Kentucky for families and DHH children.

KCDHH Resources:

KCDHH

KCDHH’s Telecommunications Access Program (TAP):
Landline or wireless equipment for Kentucky residents who are deaf,
hard of hearing, speech impaired, or have both a hearing and vision loss.

KCDHH Commissioners

KCDHH Staff

KENTUCKY COMMISSION ON THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING
632 Versailles Road
Frankfort, KY 40601

Voice: 502-573-2604
Videophone: 502-416-0607
Toll Free: 800-372-2907
kcdhh.ky.gov    |   kcdhh@ky.gov