Every Deaf survivor deserves support in their own language.
For too long, Deaf survivors have been forced to navigate systems that were never designed for them. Communication barriers, limited access to Deaf advocates, and a lack of culturally responsive services leave too many survivors without the support they deserve.
We’re working to change that.
THE CHALLENGE
Safety shouldn’t depend on where you live.
Across the United States, Deaf survivors face significant barriers to accessing services. While Deaf-led advocacy programs offer culturally and linguistically responsive support, they exist in only a handful of communities. Too often, survivors are left with no accessible option at all.
OUR VISION
A future where every Deaf survivor has somewhere to turn.
We envision a future where every Deaf survivor can access culturally responsive, trauma-informed advocacy in American Sign Language—whether through a local Deaf-led organization or a strong partnership with hearing programs that have the knowledge and resources to respond effectively.
Until that future exists, we’re building new pathways to safety.
EXPAND DEAF-LED SERVICES
We work alongside Deaf-led organizations to strengthen programs, develop leaders, and expand access to culturally responsive advocacy through initiatives like Deaf Action.
How We Create Change
Expanding access for Deaf survivors requires more than one solution. We strengthen Deaf-led organizations, help mainstream victim service providers become more accessible, and build innovative national programs that ensure Deaf survivors can access advocacy today while we work toward lasting systems change.
REMOVE BARRIERS
We help hearing victim service organizations improve accessibility through training, technical assistance, resources, and practical tools so Deaf survivors receive meaningful support wherever they seek help.
BUILD NATIONAL SOLUTIONS
When communities don’t yet have the resources Deaf survivors need, we create innovative national programs that bridge those gaps while working toward long-term systems change.
FEATURED INITIATIVE
Deaf Survivor Services
National Advocacy. Local Impact.
When Deaf survivors reach out for help, they shouldn’t have to wonder whether someone will understand their language, culture, or experiences.
Deaf Survivor Services is a national virtual advocacy program that connects Deaf survivors anywhere in the United States with Deaf advocates who provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive support in American Sign Language.
Whether someone is seeking crisis intervention, safety planning, ongoing advocacy, or help navigating local resources, Deaf Survivor Services ensures they can communicate directly with an advocate who understands.
IMPACT
✔ National virtual advocacy
available across the United
States
✔ Deaf advocates providing
culturally responsive support in
ASL
✔ Ongoing advocacy beyond
crisis intervention
✔ Connections to local resources
and community partners
Deaf Survivor Services demonstrates what’s possible when advocacy is designed by and for Deaf survivors. As we strengthen local capacity across the country, we’re also showing what equitable, culturally responsive support can—and should—look like everywhere.
PARTNER WITH US
Help build a future where every Deaf survivor can access support.
Whether you’re a Deaf-led organization, victim service provider, funder, interpreter, or community partner, we can work together to expand access and strengthen services for Deaf survivors.