Director’s Corner:

As the days grow cooler, fall reminds us of connection—coming together, sharing warmth, and supporting one another. That spirit is at the heart of California Hands & Voices, and why we are excited to launch our first monthly newsletter to keep families and our statewide community connected.

California Hands & Voices is the statewide chapter of a global parent-led organization supporting families of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and Deaf Plus children. Built on community, connection, and compassion.

Our community thrives because of you—families, professionals, volunteers, donors, and partners—who share knowledge, build friendships, and create belonging.

As we step into this new season, may it bring connection, growth, and joy for all our children and families.

With gratitude,

Cora Shahid

Executive Director, California Hands & Voices

✨ Join the Hands & Voices 5K - California Team

Choose the location that works best for you—your neighborhood, a local park, the beach, or even a treadmill then invite friends to join you and walk together to strengthen community and raise funds for California Hands & Voices.

💙 100% of the proceeds raised by California participants support our chapter’s mission to empower parent leaders in our state.

🏃‍♀️ Our goal: Raise enough to send our team to the 2026 Hands & Voices Leadership Conference in Colorado.

💙During registration, you’ll have the option to select your t-shirt size and opt in to receive a medal—while supplies last.


👉 Register for the 5K here

🔥 The chapters have a friendly competition each year—help us beat Alabama and South Dakota, who usually win the bragging rights! Let’s show them what California can do!


Thank you! Together, we’re building connection, leadership, and a brighter future—one family at a time.

Board Corner:

This month marks a special milestone—California Hands & Voices became an official chapter in October 2012, which means we’re turning 13 years old! 🎉 We’ve grown into a strong, diverse community where families of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children feel supported and empowered.

None of this would be possible without YOU—our families, professionals, and partners who believe in our mission.

Come celebrate with us! Here’s how:

✨ Share Your Testimony– Submit a testimonial for our website or upcoming presentations: Share here (free)

✨ Say Thank You – Reach out to the board member who represents your area of California and share a note of appreciation. (free)

✨ Give a Birthday Gift – Consider a donation of $20.12 in honor of our founding year: Donate here

✨ Amplify Your Impact – See if your employer matches donations: Employee Giving

✨ Join the Hands & Voices 5K – Be part of our team

On behalf of the California Hands & Voices Board of Directors, thank you for being part of our journey. Your support inspires us to continue serving, empowering, and celebrating families across California for many years to come

With gratitude and joy, 
Kasey Cain, CA H&V Board President
kcain@cahandsandvoices.org 

Program Corner:

📣 Announcement: Our next 8 Hour ASTra (Advocacy Support & Training) Workshop is coming to Northern California!

🌟 We’re currently seeking a meeting space and sponsorship support to help make this valuable training possible. In the past, our trainings have been generously hosted by hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and churches. If your organization or venue is interested in supporting us, we’d love to connect!

Please contact ASTra Co-Coordinator at KLowrance@cahandsandvoices.org

We look forward to connecting soon.