A culture and community I think about and care about is the deaf community. To learn more about Deaf Awareness Month, click here for my write up on this topic from 2022 that talks about American Sign Language, the origins of Deaf Awareness Month and ways to celebrate such!
In reflecting on how to celebrate Deaf Awareness Month this year, I thought it would be a good idea to share resources and center organizations that help people of all (dis)abilities engage in activities they are passionate about. Although there are many more organizations than the ones listed here, these are a few that I would recommend and trust that celebrate diversity and inclusion for deafness among other abilities and experiences:
Adaptive Climbing Group Started in August 2013 at Boston Bouldering Project, in Somerville, MA, this sports climbing organization hosts regular indoor climbing, monthly youth sessions and special events throughout the year. As they work with climbers of all (dis)ability experiences, I’ve had firsthand experiences as a volunteer of witnessing how this organization helps people of all ages, including deaf climbers, experience and engage the indoor and outdoor rock wall.
Achilles Boston With events at least twice per week in Boston, MA, the Boston chapter of Achilles International engages people with disabilities through athletic programs and social connection. Starting in 1983, Achilles International has worked with over 150,000 athletes of all ages and ability levels to participate in endurance events around the globe.
Gateway Arts Located in Brookline, MA, community based organization Vinfen, houses Gateway Arts - a nationally and internationally known studio, gallery and retail store that works with adults with disabilities including people with spectrum disorders, brain injuries and those who are deaf-blind. Artists housed at Gateway Arts are encouraged to create a unique individualized career by learning new processes and developing skills with the support of a staff of professional artists.
These organizations inspire me as an expressive arts therapist to empower the deaf community, as well as anyone who identifies with a disability, to explore their potential as an act of self-expression, empowerment and wellness. I hope you will learn more about these organizations on your own - whether you donate to their cause, volunteer with them or share this blogpost to help our local community flourish and celebrate the deaf community - and people of all (dis)abilities!
This month Looking Glass Counseling is proud to support Vinfen. Vinfen is a nonprofit, health and human services organization and a leading provider of community-based services to individuals with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries and behavioral health challenges. Gateway Arts, which was mentioned in Lou’s post above, is an affiliate of Vinfen.
Lou Lim, LMHC, REAT is a licensed mental health counselor and registered expressive arts therapist (REAT) with a master's degree in Expressive Therapy and Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. He is a member of the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association and on the committee for REAT credentialing. He has 13 years of experience in counseling and expressive therapy working with children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, and retirees.
Thank you for your interest in our Monday Mental Health Moments. Join our mailing list for a weekly newsletter on various mental health topics, and information about upcoming groups or workshops. No spam, we promise!
Comments