Did you know that one in seven Americans are living with some degree of hearing loss? Hearing is an important part of overall health, and the Walk4Hearing calls on all of us to take action. The Walk4Hearing is the only nationwide event bringing attention to hearing loss and promoting the importance of hearing health. Funds raised support the Hearing Loss Association of America’s (HLAA) national awareness and education programs, HLAA Chapters and State Associations, and alliance organizations that help extend HLAA’s mission into local communities.
Caption Pros is a proud supporter and sponsor of the Hearing Loss Association of America’s Arizona Walk4Hearing every year! Each year, we help to raise funds for HLAA to provide assistance and resources for people with hearing loss. Funds also go toward supporting their families to learn how to adjust to living with hearing loss, and 40% of proceeds go to our friends at the Global Alliance of Speech-to-Text Captioning. Today, Jen Schuck, founder of Caption Pros, joins us to discuss the importance of Walk4Hearing and how to get involved.
Q/A Corner with Jen Schuck
- Tell us a little about Caption Pros’ connection to Walk4Hearing. When did you first get involved?
Caption Pros has been captioning for HLAA chapters since 2006. In 2017, when approached to sponsor the Arizona Walk4Hearing, the answer was an easy yes! Over the years, our sponsorship levels have varied, but our commitment hasn’t. In fact, our commitment has grown. In addition to being a sponsor, we also formed a team. Anyone can join a team and help raise funds for the Hearing Loss Association of America. Not only do we raise funds for HLAA, but the Word Walkers (our team name this year) chose an organization that receives 40% of the funds we raise. That nonprofit is the Global Alliance of Speech-to-Text Captioning.
There is a running total on the website of teams that have raised the most money. There are prizes for the winners, so it’s a fun way to raise money. I like competition!
- Why is Walk4Hearing important for communities?
The Walk4Hearing is important because hearing loss is an invisible disability. One in five Americans has hearing loss. Some know they have it; some don’t. Because it can happen over time, you may not even be aware that it’s happening, which means when you realize it, you’re at a loss of how to cope or what to do.
Often, people don’t realize that there are things you can do or why it’s important to see an audiologist. Studies have shown a link between hearing loss and dementia, balance issues, and isolation/mental health issues. It is important to me personally to raise awareness about such a prominent issue that very few people know anything about.
- Can you share any memorable moments from previous Walk4Hearing events?
November in Arizona is the perfect time of year to get out and walk! Every year the weather has been perfect! The very first year I participated, one of my clients, whom I had never met in person since we provide services remotely, was at the event, so we finally got to meet face-to-face! It’s always a joy to meet clients and spend time with them outside of their workday or classroom.
- How can others get involved?
Join my team! Help raise funds! Join us on Walk Day! There are always raffle prizes to bid on. And there’s usually a fun Schoolie ice cream truck! Yes, ice cream in November is still quite refreshing!
- Anything else you would like to share?
Bring your kids and your dogs! Everyone is welcome at this event.
How to Get Involved
The Walk4Hearing is about sharing an experience, learning from each other, making memories, and taking the first step toward better hearing health. Participating in the Walk means joining thousands of people nationwide and in our neighborhoods who understand what it’s like to live with hearing loss. It all starts with the generous support of friends and community members to make each Walk successful. Learn more about joining Jen’s team, The Word Walkers, and supporting this year’s November 4th Walk4Hearing.
Conclusion
By being active, engaged, and making hearing health a priority, people with hearing loss can live well. Let’s Hear Now and Be Well Together!
At Caption Pros, our team of certified and professional human captioners provide accurate captioning services for many types of events. From public forums to business meetings and virtual conferences, we will help to make your next event accessible to all participants.
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