UR Community Cares is aimed at supporting older adults and individuals who are deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing. We are partnering with towns and cities across Connecticut to bring our programs to you!
UR Community Cares is developing a new program dedicated to supporting individuals who are hard of hearing and those who live, work, and interact with them every day. Our goal is to provide resources, education, and practical tools that improve communication, reduce isolation, and foster understanding.
Our Events in 2025
• September 29, 2025 – 1-2:30pm
Hybrid Event: Being Hard-of-Hearing Aware
Speaker Dr. Suzanne Ondrus
• October 1, 2025 –10am-3pm
In-Person Event: Human Guide Training by Helen Keller National Center at CT State Community College Manchester, 60 Bidwell Street, Manchester, CT
Helen Keller presented on Human Guide Training, 20 vendors at resource fair, 3 workshops after presentation on human guiding
• November 18, 2025 – 1-2:30pm
Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing Community Discussion
Hybrid Event at UR Community Tech Center, 153 Spruce Street, Manchester
Speakers Luisa Gasco-Soboleski, President, Connecticut Association of the Deaf and Janine Katomski, President, HLAA Eastern Connecticut Chapter
• December 5, 2025
In-Person Event – Multiple Speakers w/ ASL interpreters
Luisa Gasco-Soboleski, President, Connecticut Association of the Deaf, Inc.
Manchester Fire Dept. on Fire Safety
Janine Katomski, President, Hearing Loss Association of America – Eastern CT Chapter
Morrison – CT Bureau Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing Director
Independence Unlimited – Melissa Thompson Blind Advocate
Manchester Police Dept. on Community Policing
ASL Interpreters discussed their role and importance of their jobs, career opportunities
By empowering both individuals and communities with knowledge and strategies, we aim to create more inclusive environments where everyone can connect with confidence and clarity.
Stay tuned as we build this important program, together, we can break down barriers and strengthen connections.
UR Aging Resources Goals:
Raise Awareness
Promote Inclusive Communication
Encourage Thoughtful Planning
Development of a Directory
Fundraising for BLind/Low Vision and Hard of Hearing Programs
Workshops and Trainings
Resource Guides
Community Outreach
Technology Demos
Targeting Audiences
Evaluation and Impact
