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EMPIRE STATE ASSOCATION OF THE DEAF INCORPORATED
AN ORGANIZATION FOR THE PROTECTION AND INTERESTS OF THE DEAF
(www.ESAD.org)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) About ESAD
The Empire State Association is a 501(c) 3 non-profit membership based organization serving Deaf New Yorkers and their allies. ESAD was founded in 1865 and is the oldest Deaf state organization in the country. ESAD’s mission is to advocate and protect the interests of the Deaf in all aspects. There are an estimated 1.5 million Deaf and Hard of Hearing people living in New York State.
- Does ESAD belong to a national organization?
Yes, we are a state affiliate of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) located in Silver Springs, MD. ESAD has been a member in good standing since the inception of NAD. Our representatives are active in regional and national conferences as well as advocacy related activities. ESAD also supports other local, state and national related organizations promoting the rights of Deaf individuals.
- What activities is ESAD involved with?
ESAD is actively involved with issues on local and statewide levels that either promote or harm services and programs beneficial to Deaf New Yorkers. ESAD advocates on behalf of individuals, organizations or businesses that request our assistance such as grassroots community groups, schools, professional associations or underserved populations within the Deaf community. Currently ESAD is focusing efforts on preserving ASL classes in middle schools and high schools, emergency preparedness, legislative advocacy, video remote interpreting, maintaining state funded schools for the Deaf and the development of services for Deaf seniors.
- Does ESAD have regional representatives across the state?
Yes, for more information on where to find a regional representative or branch director, check our web site at www.ESAD.org.
- Does ESAD work with hearing individuals and organizations also?
Absolutely, ESAD strongly supports collaborative efforts with hearing individuals, organizations and allies. We work closely with sign language interpreters, educators, administrators, business owners and interested community members who are hearing.
ESAD’s membership is open to our hearing supporters, their families and colleagues.
It is easy and quick to join ESAD for only $10.00 a year! Go to www.ESAD.org, click onto the "Join/Renew" button to print out an application form and mail to ESAD.
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