My Nonprofit Reviews

Before moving to the SF Bay Area, I was an active member of the NYC chapter of HLAA. Upon relocating to Walnut Creek, CA, I found the HLAA-Diablo Valley chapter. This chapter has been a beacon of support and education for me. The continual education process has been invaluable, and I have cherished the opportunities to help others navigate their hearing loss journey.
I particularly admire Ann Thomas, our chapter president. Ann is incredibly generous with her time and expertise, always ready to assist anyone in need. Although I am no longer active in the chapter, Ann continues to visit me frequently. She helps me with my cochlear implant and ensures my well-being. Her dedication and kindness are truly inspiring.
HLAA-Diablo Valley has significantly impacted my life, and I am grateful for the community and support it provides.

The Hearing Loss Association of America Diablo Valley chapter (HLAA-DV) is a non-profit organization that provides support and advocacy for people with hearing loss, their families, and friends. The organization also educates the public about hearing loss and promotes hearing health. As a member of HLAA-DV, I have access to a community of people who share similar experiences and can provide valuable support.
As an elderly woman with profound hearing loss who wears a cochlear implant, I have firsthand experience with the challenges that come with hearing loss. HLAA-DV provides a safe and supportive environment where I can connect with others who understand what I’m going through. The organization offers regular meetings where you can learn about the latest research on hearing loss, share your experiences, and get advice from others who have been in your shoes.
In addition to providing support for people with hearing loss, HLAA-DV is also committed to educating the public about hearing loss. The organization offers a variety of resources for people who want to learn more about hearing loss, including educational materials, workshops, and seminars. By raising awareness about hearing loss and promoting hearing health, HLAA-DV is helping to create a more inclusive and accessible world for people with hearing loss.

HLAA has helped me navigate the pitfalls of hearing loss. I understand the hows and whys and can advocate for my needs and assist others in their hearing loss journey. I hope you can find the time to watch “I Hear You | Now Hear Us,” a documentary about four women and how hearing loss affects their lives.

Twelve years ago, I moved from New York City to a beautiful and active retirement community in the Bay Area of California. NYC was a hard act to follow, and because I have a severe hearing loss, it was particularly hard for me to meet new people and make new friends, although people did try to be friendly. However, It was impossible for me to maintain a conversation at a luncheon or meeting, and after cordial introductions, people would turn away to talk to others whom I couldn’t hear. Joining the Diablo Valley Chapter of HLAA changed all that. I was able to stand up and talk to the whole group, all of whom had hearing loss and were interested in what I had to say. They approached me later to ask questions, so I became a kind of mentor to them, and we became friends. HLAA has allowed me to develop my leadership skills and learn new and better ways to meet the social challenges of hearing loss. I am so grateful!