Logo
A dark green banner with the DEAF, Inc. logo at the center and the text, “Community Newsletter July 2024” below it. To the right of banner is a photo of DEAF, Inc. Staff, Wendy & Devon, and to the left is a photo of a man in a white shirt eating ice cream.

EVENTS

Deaf Social Groups


55+ Deaf Social Gathering Schedules

at South Shore Plaza Food Court in Braintree

3rd Wednesday of each month | 10 am - 2 pm


 August 21, September 18, October 16, 

November 20, December 18


Southeast - Cape Cod Deaf Social


Council on Aging (COA)

239 Main Street, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

In the Cafe room, bring your lunch or take out orders.


After the social, we will take a walk at the canal path.

For the summer only, the social will be at Buzzards Bay Park 

near the restroom and bike path.


 No social in July

Social dates: August 7, and September 4

A flyer promotes the workshop "You Got Mail! Decoding Email Scams: Tips and Tricks for Staying Safe," hosted by DEAF, Inc. It will be held on Zoom on Friday, July 26, 2024, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm EST. Zoom ID: 918 8838 8357. Password: brainfood. Topics include identifying scam emails and preventing scams. Ronald Bergenheim will present the workshop in ASL, and English interpreters have been requested. The image shows a hand coming out of a laptop stealing different payment methods.

Click above to view the flyer

You Got Mail! Decoding Email Scams: Tips and Tricks for Staying Safe

July 26, 2024 | 12:30 - 1:30 PM EST

Zoom


Scams are everywhere, especially online and through emails. Do you know how to keep yourself protected?

Join us on Zoom for our workshop about how to protect yourself from email scams, presented in ASL by Advocate Ronald Bergenheim.


www.bit.ly/DEAFIncWellnessWorkshops
Zoom ID: 918 8838 8357
Password: brainfood

English interpreters have been requested. For more information or to request accommodations,
contact hello@deafincma.org or call (617)-505-4823.


The image shows three golfers on a green golf course, celebrating with high-fives. They are smiling and appear to be enjoying a successful moment during their game. The background features well-maintained grass and trees, suggesting a pleasant, sunny day.

Click above to view the image

New England Homes for the Deaf's 20th Annual Golf Tournament

Monday, July 29 | Start Time: 9am EST
Beverly Golf & Tennis Club

134 McKay Street
Beverly, MA 01915


New England Homes for the Deaf's 20th Annual Golf Tournament will be held on Monday, July 29 at Beverly Golf & Tennis Club. 

  • Registration & breakfast: 9:00 am

  • Shotgun Start: 10:00 am

  • After Party: Completion of play (approximately 3:00 pm)

Plenty of food, cash bar, raffle & silent auction


To register to play or to sponsor the tournament, please click this link

A flyer for "Maintain Your Health - All Year Long: Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring" hosted by DEAF, Inc. It will be held on Zoom Wednesday, July 31, 2024, from 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM EST. Using the previous Zoom ID. Password: brainfood. The workshop will be presented by Dr. Carolyn R. Stern, MD. English interpreters will be provided. For more information or to request accommodations, contact hello@deafincma.org or call (617)-505-4823. The flyer includes illustrations representing the four seasons.

Click above to view the flyer

Wellness Workshop: Maintain Your Health All Year Long: Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring

July 31, 2024 | 12:30 - 1:30 pm EST

Zoom


Presented by Dr. Carolyn Stern on July 31, from 12:30 - 1:30 PM EST, this workshop will teach you about how the seasons can affect you and make you sick. You can learn how to avoid seasonal sicknesses like a cold, fever, flu and more.

www.bit.ly/DEAFIncWellnessWorkshops

Zoom ID: 918 8838 8357
Password: brainfood

English interpreters are provided. For more information or to request accommodations, contact hello@deafincma.org or call (617)-505-4823.

White Flyer with Title with Black Text 'Celebrate 34 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act!' The event details are as follows:  - **Date and Time:** Friday, August 2nd, 2024, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm - **Location:** Dunn Pond State Park, Gardner, MA - **Event Description:** The Massachusetts Statewide Independent Living Council invites you to celebrate 34 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The event will take place rain or shine. - **Activities:** Hike, kayak, swim, listen to music, and hang out with friends. Light lunch and drinks will be provided. Accessible hiking and kayaking will be hosted by DCR's Universal Access Program. - **Contact Information:** RSVP link forthcoming. Questions? Email info@masilc.com  The flyer includes the logos for "RAIN or SHINE" and the "Universal Access Program."

Click above to view the flyer

Celebrate 34 years of the American with Disabilities Act!

August 2, 2024| 11:00 am - 3:00 pm EST

Dunn Pond State Park 

289 Pearl Street

Gardner, MA 01440


The Massachusetts Statewide Independent Living Council invites you to celebrate 34 years of the American with Disabilities Act!


This event has everything for you join; hike, kayak, swim, listen to music, and hang out with friends. Light lunch and drinks provided. 


Accessible hiking and kayaking will be hosted by DCR's Universal Access Program. 


RSVP at this link. Questions? Email info@masilc.com

The image shows Bennett Field Pool, featuring a circular pool with a central mushroom-shaped fountain. People swim and enjoy the water, while some sit in the shade. The background includes a building and a few flags.

Click above to view the image

Pool Program with Easterseals: Collaboration with DCR’s Universal Access Program

August 2, 6, 13, 16, 2024| 11:15 am - 6:45 pm EST

Bennett Field Pool 

1260 Main St., Worcester, MA 01603


Age 13 and Above (Adults)


To register, call Patrick Remy at Easterseals Massachusetts, at (508) 751-6417 or email PRemy@eastersealsma.org


Click to learn more


The image promotes a Cornhole Tournament by Our Deaf Survivors Center. The left side features the organization's logo, a stylized human figure with an arm draped over its shoulder, and the text "Our Deaf Survivors Center." The right side shows green grass with "Cornhole Tournament" in large white and yellow letters. A cornhole board and colorful bean bags are at the bottom left, partially visible on the grass. The overall design is bright and inviting.

Click above to view the flyer

Our Deaf Survivors Center: Cornhole Tournament 

August 3, 2024| 1:00 pm EST

The School Yard

216 W. Boylston St, #400

West Boylston, MA 01583


Join us for a fun afternoon of cornhole! Prizes await the top three winners, so grab your friends and enjoy delicious food and drinks! We'll also have a bake sale and raffle.


• All skill levels are welcome to join in the excitement! 


• Victory goes to the first team to reach 21 points.


• We'll use a double-elimination format, ensuring each team plays at least two games.


• The court setup will be perfect for casual play; please leave personal bags at home.


• Prizes await the first, second, and third-place teams.


Get your tickets at this link.


Flyer for Summer Social event hosted by DEAF Inc.’s Hard of Hearing & Late-Deafened Committee. The event is titled “Summer Social: Building Bridges Together!” and takes place August 9th, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm EST at the Beverly Farms Library, Beverly Conrad Room, 24 Vine Street, Beverly, MA 01915. The flyer emphasizes joining to listen, discuss, and connect, and to learn resources for better communication. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided. Interpreters will be provided, and CART has been requested. For more information or to request accommodations, contact hello@deafincma.org or call (617) 505-4823.

Click above to view the flyer

DEAF, Inc. Hard of Hearing & Late-Deafened Committee presents: Summer Social: Building Bridges Together!

August 9, 2024 | 11:00 am - 1:00 pm EST

Beverly Farms Library - Beverly Conrad Room

24 Vine Street, Beverly, MA 01915


Let's Build Bridges Together!


Join DEAF, Inc. for our Summer Social on August 9 at Beverly Farms Library. 


From 11:00 am to 1:00 pm EST, connect with others and learn valuable communication resources.


Coffee and light refreshments provided. Interpreters will be provided and CART services have been requested.


For more information or to request accommodations, contact hello@deafincma.org or call (617)-505-4823.


The flyer for Silent Rhythms' 2024 schedule lists events. Salsa in the Park at Canal District Kendall will be held on June 27 (6-9 pm), July 24, and August 22. Dancing on the Row at Assembly Row is scheduled for June 28, July 12, August 9, August 23, and September 6. All lessons start at 6 pm. Locations are accessible by public transit. Check Silent Rhythms' Facebook for updates. Events are organized by MetaMovements. The flyer features the Silent Rhythms logo.

Click above to view the flyer

Upcoming Silent Rhythms events for 2024


Salsa in the Park at Canal District Kendall:

  • Thursday August 22, 2024

Lessons starting at 6pm. Drive, Walk, Bike or take the T – Just a 5 minute walk from Kendall Square Red Line station, and a 10 minute walk from Green Line with direct connection to North Station. *Weather permitting* 


Dancing on the Row at Assembly Row:

  • Friday August 9, 2024

  • Friday August 23, 2024

  • Friday September 6, 2024

Lessons starting at 6pm. *Weather permitting*


Check Silent Rhythms’ Facebook for the details!

Cape Cod Deaf Expo, MA, from Aug 23-28, 2024. Deaf Awareness Week, details TBD. Gala event info pending. Free craft/vendor fair on Aug 24, 10am-8pm with art, jewelry, and gifts. Booth reservations at newenglanddeaf.com/cc/rsvp.html. DEAF SHOW CAR featured. Open to public, ASL, and COLA communities. At The Emerald Resort, 35 Scudder Ave, Hyannis. Book rooms via Martha at 860-866-1324 or newenglanddeafefe@yahoo.com. Further info at newenglanddeaf.com/cc/info.html. Food, drinks, and activities are available. Celebrating New England Deaf's 10th anniversary.

Click above to view the flyer

Cape Cod Deaf Expo
August 23 - 28, 2024

The Emerald Resort Conference Center

35 Scudder Avenue, Hyannis, MA 02601


Mark your calendars for a fun week of events in Cape Cod this August! The Cape Cod Deaf Expo will be on August 23, and will have a week of events following the expo. 


Get your hotel and travel plans figured out, as August will be an opportunity to socialize, shop, and enjoy each other's company. 


To register, go to https://www.newenglanddeaf.com/

The flyer announces "Deaf/Hard of Hearing Awareness Day at Fenway" on Sunday, August 25th, 2024. The event honors Deaf community members and features the national anthem in ASL. The pre-game ceremony starts at 1:00 PM, and the game between the Boston Red Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks begins at 1:35 PM at Fenway Park. $5 from each ticket will be donated, split between MSAD and Our Deaf Survivors Center (ODSC). The flyer includes logos, a baseball glove image, and ticket info.

Click above to view the flyer

Deaf/Hard of Hearing Awareness Day at Fenway Save the Date

August 25, 2024 | 1:00 pm EST

Fenway Park

4 Jersey St

Boston, MA 02215


Deaf/Hard of Hearing Awareness Day will be on August 25 at the Boston Red Sox vs. Arizona Dimondbacks game! The National Anthem will be performed in ASL, the pre-game ceremony will be at 1:00pm and the game will start at 1:35 pm. 


$5 donated from every ticket will be split between MSAD and ODSC. 


More information about tickets coming soon.

A pic of the interior of Porrazzo Memorial Rink. The ice rink is freshly prepared, with clear markings, and surrounded by protective glass. Empty bleachers line one side, and various banners hang from the walls. The rink is well-lit, with a clean and spacious appearance.

Click above to view the image

A picture of Constitution Beach in East Boston. It features a walkway with blue railings leading to the sandy beach and clear blue water. Lampposts flank the walkway, and the distant shoreline is visible under a clear sky.

Click above to view the image

Summer Adaptive Ice Skating & BBQ in East Boston

Monday, August 26, 2024 | 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM

Porrazzo Memorial Rink & Constitution Beach

199 Coleridge St,

East Boston, MA 02128


Join Universal Access for some cool summer skating at Porrazzo Memorial Rink, and then enjoy a waterfront barbecue just outside the rink on neighboring Constitution Beach (courtesy of FMC).


On the ice you can use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! Admission and equipment are provided free of cost. This program is for individuals with disabilities, their families, and friends.


Pre-registration Required:    

Call (413) 461-7126 or email DCR.UniversalAccess@mass.gov to reserve a time.


The rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat! Face masks are welcome and appreciated.


IEP 101: Empowering Parents for IEP Awareness," hosted by DEAF, Inc. It will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm EST via Zoom. Zoom ID: 918 8838 8357, password: brainfood. Topics include understanding and advocating for a child's IEP. English interpreters are provided. Presented in ASL by Devon Hostetler. The flyer features an image of a mother, father, and child reading. QR code at top. Contact hello@deafincma.org or 617-505-4823 for more details.

Click above to view the flyer

IEP 101: Empowering Parents for IEP Awareness​

August 30, 2024 | 12:30 - 1:30 pm EST

Zoom


What is an IEP? How does an IEP work? How does it affect my child? What can I do to empower my child for their success?  


If you have these questions, then come to our IEP workshop presented in ASL by Devon Hostetler, a Lead Advocate at DEAF, Inc. You will learn about how IEPs benefit your child and how you can empower them for success. 


www.bit.ly/deafincworkshops

Zoom ID: 918 8838 8357

Password: brainfood  


ASL interpreters are provided. For more information or to request accommodations, contact hello@deafincma.org or call (617)-505-4823.

The image is the logo for Six Flags New England. The logo features the name "Six Flags" in bold black text, with colorful flags rising from the left side of the text. Below "Six Flags," the text "New England" appears in blue.

New England Deaf Day at Six Flags

September 7, 2024 | 11:00 am - 7:00 pm EST

Six Flags New England Amusement Park

1623 Main Street

Agawam, MA 01001


Deaf Day Six Flags is making a triumphant return! Go to the Central MA Deaf Night Out Facebook page to get more information! We hope to see you there!

The flyer announces "Dingo Night" on September 28th from 6 PM to 11 PM at 775 John Quincy Adams Road, Taunton, MA 02780. The event features 5-6 games of Dingo and 5-6 cash prizes (50/50). Raffle tickets: $5 (hand), $10 (elbow), $20 (full length). Attendees are invited to bring friends, coworkers, and family. Admission is $20. The event raises funds for the SSDBL New England Bowling Tournament 2025. The design includes a pumpkin and scarecrow illustration, with orange and white striped borders.

Click above to view the flyer

Dingo Night 

September 28, 2024| 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm EST

775 John Quincy Adams Rd

Taunton, MA 02780


SSDBL will be selling raffle tickets; $5 hand, $10 elbow, and $20 full length. 


Admission is going to be $20 to enter Dingo Night!


Fundraising for the SSDBL New England Bowling Tournament 2025. 

The image is a flyer for White Cane Awareness Day by the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB). On the left is a person with a white cane crossing a street. On the right, white text on a red background reads:  "MCB MASSACHUSETTS COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND  WHITE CANE AWARENESS DAY  FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2024 10 A.M. TO 1 P.M.  MASSACHUSETTS STATE HOUSE GREAT HALL 24 BEACON STREET BOSTON, MA 02108  LEARN MORE AT MASS.GOV/WHITE CANE"

Click above to view the flyer

National White Cane Awareness Day

October 15, 2024 | 10 am to 1 pm EST

Massachusetts State House Great Hall

24 Beacon Street, 

Boston, MA 02133



In Honor of National White Cane Awareness Day, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) is having a celebration day on

Friday October 18th 10am to 1pm at Massachusetts State House Great Hall.


Click here to RSVP to attend

The flyer announces the "Hope, Healing & Justice Gala" hosted by Our Deaf Survivors Center, celebrating its 25th anniversary. The event is on October 19, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Gillette Stadium, 1 Patriot Pl, Foxborough, MA 02035. The design has a black background with teal and purple accents, highlighting the event's title and 25th-anniversary emblem in silver. Event details are in white text at the bottom, including the date, time, and location.

Click above to view the flyer

Our Deaf Survivors Center's 25th Anniversary: Hope, Healing, & Justice Gala

October 19 | 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm EST

1 Patriot Place

Foxborough, MA 02035


Click here to purchase tickets to the ODSC 25th Anniversary: Hope, Healing, & Justice Gala.


To learn more about the Gala, go to the ODSC website!

A flyer for Worcester Deaf Club, Inc. lists 3 events for 2024: Saturday, June 15th, 2024: Cookout at Buffumville Lake Park, Charlton, MA, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Parking fee $5. Saturday, November 9th, 2024: Arts & Craft Bazaar @Schwab Athletic Center, Framingham, MA, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Free admission. Sunday, December 8th, 2024: Christmas Party @American Legion Post 414, Sutton, MA, 12:00 - 5:00 PM. Deaf Santa Claus will attend. Interpreters provided at all events, board members & contact info below.

Click above to view the flyer

Worcester Deaf Club: SAVE THE DATES 2024


Arts & Craft Bazaar 

November 9, 2024 | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm EST

Schwab Athletic Center

The Learning Center School for the Deaf

848 Central St, Framingham, MA 01701


Admission will be FREE and interpreters will be provided!


A Christmas Party

December 8 | 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm EST

American Legion Post 414

158 Boston Post Rd

Sutton, MA 01590


Deaf Santa Claus is coming to town and interpreters will be provided!

The image is a flyer for the "Especially for Me" program at the Discovery Museum, detailing a schedule of free events from June to December 2024. The flyer includes the following information:  - **Title and Introduction:**   - "Especially for Me"   - "Schedule of FREE Events at Discovery Museum"   - "June - December 2024"   - Description: Free admission during special hours for families and groups benefiting from a sensory-friendly visit. Accommodations are provided for an ADA-compliant environment, including a designated Take-A-Break Space.   - Preregistration link: https://bit.ly/EFMatDiscovery   - Contact email: fun@discoveryacton.org  - **Event Categories and Dates:**   - **Sensory-Friendly Afternoons:**     - Tuesdays, 1:30 - 4:30 pm     - Dates: June 4, September 10, October 8, November 12, December 3    - **Morning for Deaf, Hard of Hearing and KODA visitors:**     - Monday, June 3, 9:30 - 11:30 am    - **Special Evenings:**     - Saturdays, 5:00 - 8:00 pm     - All Access Evening: August 17     - Autism-friendly Evening: June 15, October 5, December 7     - Evening for Deaf, Blind, or DeafBlind: July 20, November 23     - Sensory-friendly Evening for Visitors 18+: September 14     - Sensory-friendly Halloween: October 26  - **Discovery Museum Contact Information:**   - Address: 177 Main Street (Route 27), Acton, MA 01720   - Phone: 978-264-4200   - Website: discoveryacton.org  The flyer also includes a QR code for preregistration.

Click above to view the flyer

Especially for Me - Special Evenings: Evening for Deaf, Blind, or DeafBlind

November 23, 2024 | 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm EST

Discovery Museum

177 Main Street (Route 27)

Acton, MA 01720


Visit when the museum is closed to public. Dinner (including gluten-free options) provided!

During these events, we offer accommodations that increase access to exhibits and provide an opportunity for families to network with one another in an understanding, ADA-compliant environment.


Pre-registration required at https://bit.ly/EFMatDiscovery


Email fun@discoveryacton.org with any questions. 

Community News

Happy 50th Anniversary, SSI!

The image features a light blue background with a champagne bottle at the bottom. The bottle is open, and colorful confetti bursts out from the top. The confetti forms a celebratory shape that leads to two large, gold balloon numbers "50" floating above the bottle. The composition suggests a festive celebration, possibly for a 50th birthday or anniversary, with the bright colors and cheerful arrangement conveying a joyful atmosphere.

This year, the Social Security Administration celebrates 50 years of administering the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. The SSI program provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness who have income and resources below specific financial limits.


Visit the SSA blog to learn more about this milestone.

Other Resources

Deaf Cycling Group

Black and white photo of bicycles leaning against a fence on an outdoor deck.

A Facebook group for Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing, and Late Deafened people who like Cycling. Hearing ASL users are welcome. Group meet-ups for rides and information sharing. 


Click this link to join/learn more!

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon

The infographic "Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Guide" by MassDOT explains beacon signals: Flashing yellow: Slow down; pedestrian activated. Solid yellow: Prepare to stop; pedestrian waiting. Solid red: Stop; pedestrian is crossing. Flashing red: After stopping, proceed if crosswalk is clear. Dark: Proceed with caution; beacon inactive until reactivated. The infographic uses yellow, red, and green backgrounds with images of cars at crosswalks.

The pedestrian hybrid beacon (PHB) is a traffic control device that enhances pedestrian safety at midblock crossings and uncontrolled intersections on higher-speed roadways. It features a beacon head with two red lenses positioned above a single yellow lens.


This infographic explains how you can follow these lights appropriately for the safety of everyone. To learn more about this, check out this website.

ASL SPACE:

TGWS (Thank God We're Sober)

All meetings are in Eastern Standard Time (EST)

ALL MEETINGS ARE OPEN (ANYONE IS WELCOME)


SUNDAY
7pm to 8:15pm 

RECOVERY DHARMA 

ID - 942 608 395 65; PW 009060


MONDAY
1pm to 2pm* 

ALL RECOVERY MEETING

ID 627 244 220; PW 010149


7pm to 8pm 

DUAL RECOVERY ANONYMOUS

ID 951 0728 5190; PW KL123


TUESDAY
7pm to 8pm

N.A. MEETING

ID 188 837 193; PW 003465


THURSDAY
12pm to 1pm

AL-Anon/Discussion

ID 597 893 497; PW 011461
7pm to 8pm All Recovery discussion MEETING - (OPEN) ID - 627 244 220; PW 010149


FRIDAY
1pm to 2pm* ALL RECOVERY MEETING- ID 627 244 220; PW 010149


* Time change


TGWS recongizes that there is not just one pathway to recovery. Our common purpose is to create a safe and supportive environment for all who wish to find freedom from addiction. Please be mindful of this recent update and share. Thank you.

Emergency Preparedness Videos

For more information on how you can prepare for an emergency, watch these ASL videos from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) available on YouTube.


You can also look at the Disaster Preparedness and the Deaf Community handbook in full.

There are many important tips to keep ourselves safe if we find ourselves in the middle of a natural disaster. 


To read more details and tips about natural disasters, go to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Hurricane Preparedness pages to learn more.

Need Support? Reach out to DeafLEAD

A flyer for DeafLEAD, promoting their 24/7/365 crisis lines specifically designed for the deaf community. The flyer emphasizes that DeafLEAD provides crisis intervention services through three nationwide videophone lines, staffed by trained crisis counselors fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), ensuring effective communication and support for those in need. Key sections and information on the flyer include: Main Header: "DeafLEAD" "24/7/365 CRISIS LINES" Main Text: DeafLEAD offers 24/7/365 crisis intervention services via three nationwide videophone lines. The counselors are fluent in ASL, ensuring effective communication and support. Support Statement: "We are a safe space for anyone in need of support" Crisis Lines: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Offers support to individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, ideation, capability, intent, or any other crisis. Access methods: Text 988, dial "988" on a videophone, or visit www.DeafLEAD.org and select the "988 ASL NOW" option. Disaster Distress Videophone Helpline: Provides emotional and psychological support to those affected by natural or human-caused disasters in the US and its territories. Access methods: Dial 1-800-985-5990 on a videophone or visit www.DeafLEAD.org and select the "DDH ASL NOW" option. Deaf Crisis Line: Offers emotional support and resources to Deaf survivors of past or present emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. Access methods: Dial 321-800-DEAF (3323) on a videophone or visit www.DeafLEAD.org and select the "DCL NOW" option. Contact Information: Website: www.DeafLEAD.org Social Media: Facebook (@DeafLEADUSA), Twitter (@Deaf_LEAD) Address: 2505 W Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203 The flyer features the DeafLEAD logo, a photo of a person using ASL, and icons for each of the crisis lines.
A flyer for DeafLEAD, promoting their 24/7/365 hotline. There are three helpline apps: Deaf Crisis Line, Disaster Distress Helpline, and the 988 Suicide Crisis Line.  There is a woman on the left side of the image signing 'Connect'. Access methods: Dial 321-800-DEAF (3323) on a videophone or visit www.DeafLEAD.org and select the "DCL NOW" option. Contact Information: Website: www.DeafLEAD.org Social Media: Facebook (@DeafLEADUSA), Twitter (@Deaf_LEAD)  The flyer features the DeafLEAD logo, a photo of a person using ASL, and icons for each of the crisis lines.

All of Us Data Shows the Power of Social Support to Prevent Depression

The infographic shows that having any social support prevents depression, with all three types being the most protective. It features three circles: "Tangible Support" showing two people cleaning, "Positive Social Interactions" showing a group playing cards, and "Emotional & Informational Support" showing two people talking over coffee. The title is in white text on blue. The All of Us Research Program logo is top right. A reference citation is at the bottom.

The Impact of Social Support on Mental Health


Having social connections helps people cope during hard times. But are some types of social support more beneficial for mental health than others? And who gains the most from it? These questions may reveal new ways to enhance mental health.


Researchers used data from the All of Us program to examine three types of social support during the COVID-19 pandemic:

  • Emotional and informational support: Having someone to confide in.
  • Positive social interaction: Enjoying time with others.
  • Tangible support: Receiving practical help.

The study found that the more types of social support participants had, the lower their risk of depression. Those with all three types were six times less likely to be depressed than those with only tangible support.


To read more about the study, you can look at the All of Us website.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information

An informational flyer from DEAF, Inc. about COVID-19 vaccine shots. It states that all three vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax) are good. There are two columns: one for those who got a shot on or after September 12, 2023, and another for those who got a shot before. It outlines recommendations for different age groups: under 5 years (see child's PCP), ages 5-64 (all set or one more shot), and age 65+ (one or two more shots, 4 months apart). For more info, consult your healthcare provider.

For more information on how this impacts you directly, consult your healthcare provider. 

How to Identify Poison Ivy

An infographic titled "Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac" provides identification tips. It shows images of each plant. Poison ivy has three leaflets per leaf and grows as a bush or vine. Poison oak has three leaflets with rounded tips and grows like a shrub or vine. Poison sumac has clusters of 7 to 13 leaflets arranged in pairs and grows as a tree. The infographic is by Cleveland Clinic. The title and plant names are highlighted in blue, and the descriptions are in black font.

Click above to view the flyer

The infographic "How to Identify Poison Ivy" offers tips and rhymes for identifying the plant. It shows images of poison ivy leaves, berries, and vines. Key tips include: "Leaves of three, let it be," "Berries white, run in fright," "Hairy vine, no friend of mine," and "Side leaflets like mittens, will itch like the dickens." Each section has descriptions and images. The background uses green and brown colors to separate sections.

Click above to view the flyer

Social Security Information

Social Security Video Connect

A promotional graphic for "Social Security Video Connect." It features an illustration of a person on a laptop screen with a speech bubble saying "Hello!" The Social Security Administration logo is in the bottom left corner, and a large red play button is overlaid in the center, indicating a video.


With Social Security Video Connect, you can meet with a Social Security representative for Medicare, benefit applications, overpayments, redeterminations, U.S. citizen no-change replacement Social Security cards, and U.S. citizen date of birth changes. To use this service, your clients need access to a Microsoft Teams compatible device (desktop, laptop, tablet, or smart phone with a web camera).


Your clients can request a video appointment by contacting their local Social Security office or calling 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.


What do you need?  

Desktop, laptop, tablet, or smart phone. A device with a web camera.


Zoom? 

No, SSA uses Microsoft Teams.


How?

Contact local Social Security office 

Or call 1-800-772-1213 (Between 8am - 7pm, Monday-Friday)



What is Social Security?

The infographic "What is Social Security?" explains the program's purpose and history. It highlights Social Security's creation during the 1930s Great Depression, signed into law by President Roosevelt in 1935. Key milestones: 1939 Survivors Insurance, 1956 Disability Insurance, 1965 Medicare, and 1972 Supplemental Security Income (SSI). It serves over 65 million beneficiaries, including retirees, dependents, disabled workers, and survivors. SSA website link and contact info are at the bottom.

Click above to view the infographic

What is FICA?

The infographic "What is FICA?" explains that FICA is a U.S. federal payroll tax for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act, deducted from each paycheck. It funds Social Security and Medicare programs. It shows 6.2% of gross wages go to Social Security tax and 1.45% to Medicare tax, totaling 15.3% with employer matching. It illustrates benefits for retirees, the disabled, and children, emphasizing that today's workers fund current beneficiaries. SSA link and contact info are at bottom.

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Social Security Retirement Benefits

The infographic "Social Security Retirement Benefits" explains eligibility and benefits. To receive benefits, work at least 10 years or earn 40 credits. In 2024, $1,730 equals one credit, with a maximum of 4 credits per year. Benefits can be claimed from age 62, increasing until age 70. Three options: Early (75% benefit), Full (100% benefit), and Delayed (130% benefit). Amount depends on career earnings. SSA website link and contact info are at the bottom, with a call to estimate benefits on SSA.gov.

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Disability Insurance Facts

An infographic "Disability Insurance Facts" by the Social Security Administration highlights key statistics. Average monthly amounts: $1,483.10 for disabled workers, $408.42 for spouses, and $470.77 for children. Beneficiaries include 7,604,098 disabled workers, 90,972 spouses, and 1,145,663 children. A pie chart shows 86% disabled workers, 13% children, and 1% spouses of 8,840,773 total beneficiaries. It mentions $11 billion monthly and $142 billion yearly benefits. The SSA link and publication information is at the bottom.

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DEAF, Inc. Executive Director Darian Gambrell stands in front of a grey background wearing a light blue shirt and dark blue cardigan

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DEAF, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) agency funded through government contracts, private funding and donations. This material was developed with support from: MA Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Association for the Relief of Aged Women of New Bedford, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Boston Evening Clinic, Bushrod Campbell, City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission, City of Boston’s Office of Jobs and Community Development Block Grant, Commonwealth Care Alliance, Executive Office of Elder Affairs, HRiA - MA COVID-19 Community Grants, Liberty Mutual, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission – Title VII Part B, Sanofi Genzyme, USCIS Innovations in Citizenship Grant.