Deaf and Hard Hearing Social Event
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Department at Saginaw Intermediate School District (ISD) seeks funding for a social event that brings together Deaf and Hard of Hearing students from twelve different school districts for the purpose of fostering community with those who hold shared experiences in a safe and accessible environment. This project provides students from all races and socioeconomic backgrounds with the opportunity to meet other young people like themselves and build a stronger community support network. These students face isolation daily, an issue only amplified by the measures put in place at the height of the novel coronavirus pandemic. As a result, students with hearing loss are more prone to struggle with mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety, as well as an increased internalization of ableist ideologies. Creating space to see and learn from other students like themselves while having fun will not only increase student morale and confidence, but also support individual growth to aid in creating tomorrow’s leaders.