The Deaf & Hearing Connection's goals are to:

1. Empower people affected by hearing loss to function as productive, independent and self-reliant citizens.
2. Provide education and training for the general public and employers to facilitate better communications with those who experience hearing loss.

The Deaf & Hearing Connection (DHC) is making a difference. DHC is a nonprofit organization and has successfully provided cost effective, community based programs that enhance our client's economic and emotional independence in the Tampa Bay area for more than 28 years. We are committed to providing programs and services which are client centered, addressing the needs of the whole person and their environment and these services are provided in a setting that is appropriate for each individual's needs, desires and potential. We provide services to between 6,500 and 7,500 clients in Tampa Bay every year.

DHC accomplishes its mission by providing the following programs

• The Hearing Help Center provides consumers with the very best hearing health care (including free hearing tests), in addition to the world's finest affordable hearing instruments, equipment and other assistive devices.
• Telephone Equipment Distribution keeps clients connected to the community through the distribution of specialized telecommunications equipment from Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc (FTRI). There is no charge for this equipment for qualified applicants.
• The Living with Hearing Loss Program empowers clients to identify and cope with the affects of hearing loss so that they can communicate comfortably with others. This program helps clients learn about communications equipment and repair strategies, speech reading, assertiveness and self-advocacy, equipment technology, services and support groups.
• Case Management helps clients become self-sufficient by working with them to create an individualized action plan that enhances their ability to overcome setbacks and barriers to living productive lives. This program also links eligible hard of hearing and deaf clients with the services and program they need.
• Counseling makes it possible for clients to integrate into society and lead productive lives by: dispelling myths and irrational beliefs about hearing loss; creating realistic expectations regarding the impact of hearing loss on their lives and helping them develop appropriate coping skills; and assisting clients affected by depression, anxiety and isolation that can result from hearing loss.
• Community Outreach and Education enhances the understanding of hearing related issues and the consequences for our community; the importance of appropriate communications strategies; and, the availability of programs for persons affected by hearing loss.
• Work Place Programs assist employers and employees with appropriate communications strategies, as well as compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Employment counseling for the deaf and hard of hearing is also available.