Text Announcement [ [link removed] ]




Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing [ [link removed] ]

ID: Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, logo for the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services featuring three people, arms interconnected, inside an outline of the state of Washington.




*November 18, 2024*




This email is being forwarded on behalf of the Washington State Office of Equity.

*Digital Equity Forum Invites Diverse Voices to Join *

Are you excited about technology or anything digital? Do you want to advocate for your community and promote equality?

We invite you to apply for the *Digital Equity Forum (DEF)*, a council whose *input will help shape policies and programs *aimed at promoting access to digital technologies and resources for all Washingtonians. *Digital equity* means making sure everyone has *fair and equal access* to technology, including the internet, devices, and the skills to use them. As our world becomes more digital, it’s important for us to work together to *close the gaps that prevent people from fully participating in society *such as *accessing health resources, pursuing civic engagement, and accessing education and job opportunities*.

We are inviting passionate individuals with diverse life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds to apply for DEF. We believe that every unique voice matters!

We are especially eager to hear from individuals whose *experiences highlight the barriers to digital access *that many face today. This includes, but is not limited to*, individuals from low-income households, people with disabilities, seniors, racial and ethnic minorities, rural residents, veterans, and those who have experienced housing instability or foster care*. We encourage you to apply & share this opportunity widely!

*What*: Digital Equity Forum Application Open 

*Why Apply: *Joining DEF is a chance to help create meaningful changes in our state. Your voice can help ensure that everyone benefits from digital technology, regardless of their circumstances.

*When*: The application deadline for this round is *December 31, 2024*. The application process will reopen again on February 1, 2025

*Where*: To apply or for more information visit: digitalequityforum.wa.gov [ [link removed] ] (Virtual and Print options available)

*Meeting Schedule and Format:* The Digital Equity Forum meets on the first Tuesday of alternating months from 3:00-4:30 PM. In the months between, individual workgroups meet independently based on their own schedules. You will receive calendar invites and meeting materials ahead of each whole group session. Workgroup members will coordinate their own meeting times and agendas. All meetings are held virtually on Zoom.

*Compensation for Members:* Currently, Digital Equity Forum (DEF) members are not compensated, as outlined in  RCW 43.330.5395: Digital equity forum. [ [link removed] ] However, legislation has been proposed to allow compensation in the future (not sure if or when this will be approved). Members may still be eligible for reimbursement of travel expenses per RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.

If you have any questions about the Digital Equity Forum or the application, please contact

*Katrina Tuggle (she/her) – Digital Equity Program Manager*

*Email: **[email protected]* <[email protected]>* | Phone: *(360) 628-7100

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*Accessibility:* We are dedicated to ensuring equitable and inclusive access. Our meetings and events are available in ASL, spoken English, and with captioning. Additionally, other signed and spoken languages are offered. For more information or specific requests, please contact us at [email protected].

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ODHH requests community feedback regarding alternatives for “stakeholders” terminology. Fill out a short two-question survey. [ [link removed] ]

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Programs & Services

* Assistive Communication Technology (ACT) [ [link removed] ]
* Case Management [ [link removed] ]
* Community Resources [ [link removed] ]
* Family Mentor Services [ [link removed] ]
* Hard of Hearing Resources [ [link removed] ]
* Sign Language Interpreter Contracts and Resources [ [link removed] ]
* Telecommunication Equipment Distribution (TED) [ [link removed] ]
* Telecommunication Relay Service (TRS) [ [link removed] ]
* Training and Presentation [ [link removed] ]

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*Who We Are:* The Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) provides programs and services for Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, Hard of Hearing, Late Deafened, and Speech Disabled individuals, their families, and service providers in Washington State. 

*What We Do:* ODHH operates under the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and is entrusted with fulfilling its legislative mandate outlined in RCW 43.20A.725. ODHH’s work includes:

_Advocacy_: ODHH advocates for the rights, interests, and needs of individuals who are Deaf, DeafBlind, Deaf Disabled, Hard of Hearing, Late Deafened, and Speech Disabled. The Office works to eliminate communication barriers and promote equal opportunities in various service areas, including training, consultation, contract management, information and referrals, and resources to promote communication equity.

_Coordination:_ ODHH is a centralized resource. The Office collaborates with governmental, business, and community stakeholders to develop and implement policies, programs, and initiatives that address and ensure that state services and resources are accessible and inclusive to all Washingtonians.

*Contact Us!*

800-422-7930 Voice

425-461-3603 Videophone

[email protected]




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Contact Us [ [link removed] ]






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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Washington State Aging and Long-Term Support Administration · 4450 10th Avenue SE · Lacey, WA 98503 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]

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