Care Project Chattanooga

The Power of Connection: The Care Project

By Leah Williamson (Disability Connection Midsouth)

The landscape of education and support for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children is ever-evolving. One of the most impactful events that foster collaboration and understanding in this field is The Care Project, which was held in Chattanooga, TN. This conference serves as a vital platform for parents, caregivers, educators and service providers to come together, share experiences and learn from one another. 

Here’s why this event is crucial for families of DHH children and the professionals who serve them. Developing strong partnerships is encouraged early in a child’s diagnosis. One of the primary goals of the conference is to strengthen the partnership between parents and professionals. By fostering open communication, this collaboration ensures that the unique needs of DHH children are met effectively. Parents gain insights into educational strategies, resources, and advocacy efforts, while professionals learn directly from families about their experiences and challenges.

The conference featured a myriad of workshops, presentations, and panels led by experts in the field. Topics often included: Staying updated on the newest findings related to deaf education and intervention strategies. Effective Communication Techniques: Exploring various methods of communication, from sign language to auditory-verbal approaches. Behavioral Strategies: Understanding the social and emotional needs of DHH children to foster their overall well-being. By sharing best practices, parents and professionals worked to enhance their knowledge and improve the support they receive and provide.

The conference creates an environment conducive to networking. Parents meet other families who share similar experiences, forming valuable support systems. Likewise, professionals can connect with peers, creating a community of practice that can lead to collaborative projects, resource sharing, and ongoing support.

A significant aspect of the conference is the exhibition area, where various service providers showcase their offerings. Including educational tools that can be a bridge between home and school. Advocacy groups that assist families in navigating resources and systems, and therapeutic services like audiology, speech, and even mental health services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.

One of the most empowering elements of the conference is its emphasis on parent support and peer mentoring. Parents gain tools and strategies to advocate effectively for their children’s rights and educational needs. There was a parent panel held with children of different ages and sharing their family stories. They reminded the audience of why everyone’s access is so different and that there was not one single way to do it right. 

By understanding the laws, resources, and available support systems, families can become their children’s strongest advocates—ensuring they receive the education and services they deserve. The Care Project is more than just an event; it is a critical gathering that strengthens the fabric of support for families of deaf and hard of hearing children. By promoting collaboration, sharing knowledge, and fostering advocacy, the conference empowers both parents and professionals to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for DHH children.

For parents, this event is a gateway to connections, resources, and knowledge that can significantly impact their child’s educational journey. For professionals, it’s an opportunity to engage with families, learn from their experiences, and enhance their practice. Together, they can ensure that the rights of deaf and hard of hearing children are valued in society.

DC Midsouth Life: Oak Court Mall Doors are a Barrier

People with Disabilities can be left out in the rain.

By Allison Donald, Leah Williamson, and Christina Clift.

A day of shopping can be tiring and fun. If you are like me, finding a good bargain or the perfect pair of shoes brings you a thrill. On the other hand, long lines and crowded stores, a limited selection, or sky-high prices can turn a fun day into a frustrating outing.

For people with disabilities shopping has another challenge and it is access. Whether it is physical access to get in and out of the store, inaccessible fitting rooms, or no accessible parking, it can also be a lack of sighted assistance or poor lighting for someone who is blind.

 

Recently some friends and I went to the Oak Court mall for a bit of shopping. As we were walking up to go inside the mall the first door was propped open.  However, as you approach the second set of doors you have to pull them. It is extremely difficult because of the weight of the door. 

The doors are nearly impossible to open if you are a wheelchair user. I did not feel like struggling with the door. I looked to the right and there was an accessible entrance. I really wasn't sure, because there is no clear signage. The only reason I was able to identify the button was because of the silver panel that is on most accessible entrance buttons.  

Honestly, I felt relieved because all I wanted to do was take the easiest path to get into the mall. As I was walking over to the button, my friend began to push it and nothing happened.

We were all standing at the entrance of the mall in rain soaked clothes looking at each other in disbelief. At this point we are both ready to call it a day. 

My friend says, "I'm going to push it one more time." On the fifth try the door opened and we were able to go into the mall. I like shopping just as much as the next person but this is such a hindrance and it takes away the enjoyment of just getting out and about without barriers.

 

I am positive that the doors at the Oak Court Mall are not the only ones like this around the city. We at Disability Connection Midsouth are continuing to work and identify barriers that prevent Memphians living with a disability from living, working, and playing in this city just like our non disabled counterparts. If you are out in the streets and you see a barrier or you are not sure if it's a barrier feel free to contact us at 901-726-6404 or www.disabilitymidsouth.org.