Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum

Families with Deaf and Hard of Hearing children, their siblings, and other friends of Hands & Voices gathered at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum in Poughkeepsie for an evening of connection, exploration, and community.

The event provided families with an opportunity to spend time together in an inclusive and welcoming environment while children explored the museum exhibits together. Families shared stories and experiences, creating opportunities for connection and informal peer support.

Participants also enjoyed pizza together and learned more about the mission of Hands & Voices of NY, including upcoming virtual events and other opportunities for families to stay connected and engaged.

Guests from the Mid Hudson Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) also joined the event and shared information and perspectives with participating families. Their presence provided an additional opportunity for families to learn about organizations and resources available within the broader hearing loss community.

We also heard from deaf community member Chris Warner, a longtime supporter and volunteer at events for our Hudson Valley group and spoke to parents about his own story and was available to answer questions from families. Thank you Chris!

Thanks to Stephanie Pushman for volunteering as our interpreter for this event and to Pasquale’s pizza in New Paltz for the generous discount on the delicious pizza. Thanks to parent organizers Abbey and Andrea!

The event was sponsored by the New York State Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program (NY EDHI) and Hands and Voices of New York.