Clear, transparent communication makes for stronger communities
Our mission drives us to fulfill gaps in communication and services for the Deaf, hard of hearing and Deafblind communities in Philadelphia and the tristate area.
The Philadelphia Deaf Community is as diverse as the city.
We’re a local organization and we have been for over 40 years. When there’s a communication need between the Deaf and hearing, or if there’s a gap in programs for the Deaf, we do our very best to provide a quality, culturally competent service.
Service Areas
Primary Service Area
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Delaware County, PA
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Bucks County, PA
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Chester County, PA
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Montgomery County, PA
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Philadelphia County, PA
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Camden County, NJ
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Gloucester County, NJ
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Burlington County, NJ
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New Castle County, DE
Secondary Service Area
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Mercer County, NJ
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Salem County, NJ
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Cumberland County, NJ
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Lehigh County, PA
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Berks County, PA
Other Areas
We also cover parts of the tristate area on a situational basis. If we are unable to serve you we will do our best to refer you to a local service.
Emergency Interpreter Service (EIS)
DHCC has the first and longest serving on-call emergency interpreter service in the Delaware Valley for medical and/or police emergencies during non-business hours. One coordinator and 4 interpreters are on call each night, weekend or holiday for a quick response.
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)
DHCC coordinates Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), which is the provision of sign language interpreting through the use of video conferencing technology. The parties that need to communicate are in the same location, and the interpreter is connected remotely.
Community Interpreting Program (CIP)
Sign Language Interpreting Services
DHCC provides interpreting services to facilitate communication for Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing people by using qualified, professional sign language interpreters.
We also provide CART (or Real-time captioning) uses qualified captioners with specialized equipment to print a word for word version of spoken language on a laptop computer, TV monitor or overhead screen.
The Community Interpreting Program (CIP) is meant to cover one-time events not covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) such as weddings, funerals, baby showers, etc. It is not for on-going, monthly events or business related meetings. This program is restricted to use by individuals only. Requests from businesses and organizations cannot be accepted.
Education & Outreach
DHCC Outreach Services include cultural sensitivity trainings for hearing people and organizations; visits to groups of Deaf and hard of hearing students, seniors, adults and family members to provide information about communication access and advocacy; participating on Committees and Coalitions to share information and/or work for change; networking with Deaf and hard of hearing organizations; and having exhibits at major conferences and events about DHCC.
DHCC offers a variety of American Sign Language (ASL) classes including group classes, 1-on-1 or on location for business employees.
DHCC offers on-site sensitivity trainings that cover a variety of topics including the impact of hearing loss, equal communication access services, communication strategies and Deaf Culture awareness.
DHCC offers workshops for different purposes and different target groups, including Deaf and hard of hearing consumers, hearing customers and interpreters. Workshops topics include “How to Advocate for Communication Access”, “How to Use an Interpreter” and “Interpreting in Court”.
Information on Deaf Resources and Referrals
DHCC advocates to organizations such as government, medical providers, courts, businesses and social services for equal communication access on behalf of Deaf and hard of hearing consumers. DHCC also provides information about community services and resources that can provide assistance to Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing individuals.