Services provided in relation to a consumer’s rights or a referral to other resources. CSD of SD connects the consumer to necessary services through disability, civic or social programs, or provides information and referral to programs that address the barriers confronted by deaf and hard of hearing individuals in areas of education, employment, and other settings.

Services provided to promote personal growth by sharing experiences either in a group setting or through one-on-one meetings between our specialists and individuals who may be homebound or live in rural areas. Peer support services may include information sharing, support services, mentoring and parent-to-parent opportunities. Peer Support may help facilitate personal and social adjustment skills, communication skills, educational activities, and develop resources.

These services assist an individual in developing the skills needed for self-advocacy. Community awareness programs are offered to enhance the understanding of cultural norms and needs of deaf or hard of hearing individuals within general society.

CSD of SD’s mentoring program is an opportunity for a new interpreter to learn from an experienced interpreter or a native ASL user and receive direct support, access to information critical for their continued growth, a more smooth entry into the interpreting profession, and expert feedback. While not a substitute for a formal interpreter training program, CSD of SD’s mentoring program is used to augment the skills of a novice interpreter.

In partnership with Vocational Rehabilitation, CSD of SD provides job coaching, job shadowing, communication assistance, sensitivity training, and sign language classes for employment with deaf employees.

CSD of SD works to bridge communication and cultural gaps. Individual or small group sign language classes help parents and caregivers to communicate more effectively with deaf individuals. Larger classes may be offered to the community for a small fee.

Individualized teaching, mentoring and guidance services enable consumers to access programs in the community. Services include national supports, social supports, skill development and communication supports that empower the consumer to become more independent. Additionally, transition services are also provided to support students moving from basic education to post-secondary education or entering the workforce.

Deaf culture and awareness trainings are provided to different organizations to remove existing communication and cultural barriers. Technical assistance or consultative services are offered to Centers of Independent Living, schools, vocational rehabilitation, medical, parents, employers and businesses to enhance the consumer’s experience.

Project LinkSD

Project LinkSD is made possible through the State of South Dakota, Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitative Services, under the Relay South Dakota program.