Our Youth & Family Services
We uplift youths and their families
We work together with families and communities of Deaf children to cultivate the foundation for a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. Our services for Deaf youths and their families are focused on transforming barriers into celebrated milestones.
YFS Monthly Event
Signtastic Families is a monthly gathering of families with D/HH children. These are indoor and outdoor meetups where families can network in Deaf cultural learning experiences using the fantastic language of ASL.
Our Programs
The goal of Youth and Family Services (YFS) is to empower children, youth, and their families by ensuring they have full access to essential aspects of life such as education, communication, identity development, and community resources. YFS recognizes the importance of providing comprehensive support to promote the overall health and well-being of youth and families through DCS’ various programs.
Deaf Coach Services
"We create bilingual events to bring enrichment through learning, reading, and team-building activities so that our Deaf youths can aspire to become leaders."
From Birth to 3 Years Old:
For Teenagers and Young Adults (14 Years Old and Up):
In addition, YFS recognizes the importance of providing opportunities for recreational activities and community engagement. After-school recreational programs offered by YFS allow youth to engage in various hobbies, sports, and creative outlets, fostering personal growth, social connections, and overall well-being. These programs provide a supportive and inclusive environment where youth can explore their interests and develop important life skills.
Additionally, Hand in Hand Program focuses on 7 to 18 years old Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafPlus, and Hard of Hearing child who will benefit from a Deaf Mentor. Deaf Mentorship is an adult who navigated the obstacles and successes in their life and wants to pass on their wisdom to the child. Especially as deaf child experience greater barrier in communication and comprehension of the real world that they need a deaf mentor who has similar experience. Hand in Hand Program is partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2017, they promote growth and self-advocacy through mentorship program as offered.
Summer Camp for 8-14 Years Old:
YFS further extends its support through their summer camps, Deaf Youth Literacy Camp (DYLC), which offer a range of enriching experiences for youth. These camps focus on fostering personal and social development while also providing a fun and inclusive environment for children to learn, grow, and make lasting connections with peers.
By offering programs such as Deaf Coach Services, ASL classes, after-school recreational programs, and summer camps, YFS actively works towards empowering children, youth, and their families. Their comprehensive approach ensures full support in various aspects of life, providing opportunities for growth, connection, and access to resources. Through these
initiatives, YFS aims to create positive connections, enhance overall health, and promote the well-being of deaf and hard of hearing youth and their families.
For Families: Learning American Sign Language
YFS also offers American Sign Language (ASL) classes to facilitate effective communication for both deaf and hearing family members. By promoting ASL proficiency, YFS enables families to connect and communicate more effectively, strengthening their relationships and providing a nurturing environment for deaf and hard of hearing youth.
