“CHEAR SOUNDSATION” will help to fund CHEAR’s mission to foster and provide universal access to quality care for disorders of the ear, hearing and balance to Hampton Roads. This goal is achieved through programs for identification, clinical care, research, rehabilitation, education, public awareness and advocacy. Our three main projects are:
MOBILE HEARING VAN AND HEARING AID BANK.
Many people with hearing loss who could benefit from hearing aids, lack the financial resources to obtain them. CHEAR’s mobile hearing program would bring hearing care to those who could not otherwise have access. Additionally, a Hearing Aid Bank will be created to collect donated aids, purchase new aids, and provide hearing aids at low or no cost to children and adults who cannot otherwise afford them.
ORAL EDUCATION IN HAMPTON ROADS
In order to achieve their potential, children with hearing loss who use auditory/oral language, hearing aids and/or cochlear implants, require supportive oral-based education. In February 2009, with the support of CHEAR, the Virginia Department of Education, Old Dominion University, and local school systems, the opportunity for oral education became a reality with the opening of the Oral Preschool located within ODU’s Child Study Center. Our goals at this time include financial support for the program, increased capacity, and development of programs to train teachers, speech pathologists and early intervention workers on techniques to support children with hearing impairment.
SUPPORT OF THE HEARING AND BALANCE CENTER OF EVMS
The Department of Otolaryngology and its Hearing and Balance Center provides testing and management for hearing and balance problems in children and adults. Working with CHEAR, the Hearing and Balance Center hopes to introduce new technology, obtain funding for research initiatives, and increase educational opportunities for clinicians who work in hearing and balance related specialties.
