Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center SWFL

09/07/2026

A heartfelt thank you to The Naples Players for their commitment to communication accessibility! We were honored to train their staff and share knowledge and practical tools that help ensure Deaf and hard of hearing patrons have greater access to the theater experience. We truly appreciate their dedication to making accessibility a priority. 🤟💙

A new way to say “Welcome!” ❤️

Last week, our Box Office and Front of House teams had a pretty impactful training with Audrey from the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center SWFL, learning some introductory American Sign Language and best practices for welcoming and communicating with Deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons.

We learned some basic signs and came away with a deeper understanding of the little things that can make a big difference in someone’s experience.

And we love that opportunities like this are becoming part of what accessibility looks like at The Naples Players. From Arts Access programs, our Sensory Booth, and accessible performances, to community partnerships and trainings like this one, we’re always finding new ways to make theatre a place where more people can participate, connect, and feel at home.

A big thank you to Audrey for such a fun and valuable training, and to Amy Turner and our friends at the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center for being such wonderful partners.

Sometimes building community starts with something as simple as learning a new way to say “hello.”

You can learn more about our arts access programs at: https://naplesplayers.org/learn/arts-access/

08/20/2026

What an energizing day! DHHC’s Executive Director Amy Turner joined Mission Impossible 2: The Power of Purpose, hosted by the Above Board Chamber of Florida led by Jeanne Sweeney.

The day was filled with inspiring speakers, fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and opportunities to build new partnerships. It also provided valuable insight into fundraising and strategic planning to help strengthen the Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center SWFL for the future.

A huge thank you to Jeanne and the Above Board Chamber for creating such a powerful event and bringing our community together with purpose!

08/05/2026

Great news—Lakes Park’s splash pads are reopening!

We love Lakes Park and are excited to see this popular family feature open again. It is such a wonderful community space, and we’re especially looking forward to being there to celebrate Deaf Awareness Day at our annual DHHC Deaf Awareness Day SWFL 2026 Cookout on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

We’re grateful for community spaces like Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation that bring families and neighbors together. We hope you’ll join us in September at Lakes Park for a fun day of food, connection, and Deaf community pride! Lee County Government

07/20/2026

Kudos to the State of Maryland for taking the lead to make this project happen!

An official website of the State of Maryland.

07/13/2026

For many Deaf individuals, the greatest communication barrier isn’t with strangers—it’s within their own families.

When family members choose to learn American Sign Language (ASL), they’re doing more than learning a new language. They’re making the choice to share conversations, celebrate milestones, laugh together, and ensure their loved one never feels left out.

At the Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center, we believe communication strengthens families. That’s why we offer discounted ASL classes for family members of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, making it easier to build meaningful connections that last a lifetime.

Learn more or register today at www.dhhc.life.

07/04/2026

🎉 That’s a Wrap on Deaf Youth Summer Camp! 💙

Two unforgettable weeks, countless smiles, and memories that will last all year! Our campers wrapped up the summer with a fun-filled trip to Chuck E. Cheese, games, and ice cream as they celebrated an amazing camp experience together. 🍦🎮

From science experiments, plant workshops, bowling, Sun Splash, DIY crafts, brain challenges, board games and new friendships, every day was filled with opportunities to learn, explore, and grow in a fun, ASL rich environment. All Deaf Youth Summer Camp activities were in 100% ASL.

Thank you to all of our campers and families for making this summer so special. We loved watching each child build confidence, creativity, and lasting connections throughout camp.

Summer camp was a huge success thanks to Ruby our amazing Deaf Youth Coordinator and Audrey, our fabulous Deaf Mentor. Thank you both for your caring hearts!

We can’t wait to welcome returning campers and meet new families at Deaf Youth Summer Camp 2027! 💙 See you next summer!

07/04/2026

🇺🇸 Happy Fourth of July from the Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center!

This year, we celebrate a historic milestone—250 years of American independence. As we reflect on our nation’s history, we’re also reminded of the importance of building communities where everyone has the opportunity to connect, communicate, and participate.

We wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and memorable Independence Day! ❤️🤍💙

07/03/2026

🍅 Day 6 Recap: Growing Something New!

Our campers rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on plant workshop, where they learned how tomatoes grow—from planting seeds to caring for their own plants at home. They also explored the garden, picked fresh tomatoes, and discovered where food comes from before creating their very own potted tomato plants to take home. 🌿❤️

The day was filled with curiosity, teamwork, and plenty of dirty hands as campers learned that with a little patience and care, even the smallest seed can grow into something amazing.

We can’t wait to see how our campers’ tomato plants grow over the coming weeks. 🌱

Thank you Ruby, our wonderful Deaf Youth Coordinator and Audrey, our amazing Deaf Mentor!

📍 Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center (DHHC)
1860 Boy Scout Drive, Suite B208
Fort Myers, FL 33907

🌐 www.dhhc.life