When I was putting together the list of community resources, I was surprised to find that ALDA (the Association of Late-Deafened Adults) does not have a local chapter. A list on ALDA’s website shows 14 chapters around the country, but the closest one to us is in New Jersey.
Surely that is a mistake, since Rochester and its large deaf community would seem a “natural” for an ALDA chapter. But when I contacted the group, I learned it was no mistake at all.
“At this time, Rochester does not have a chapter nor group in this area,” said Kathy Schlueter, who coordinates ALDA’s chapters and groups.
“I would happy to speak to anyone that may be of interest in starting a chapter or group,” she added. “I have a packet that we send out with ALDA Notes to help them get started and will walk them through the process and be a contact of support while starting up their chapter or group.”
Perhaps there is someone out there looking for something to do who would like to take on the challenge of starting a Rochester ALDA chapter. DeafRoc.com would be happy to help with publicity.
Kathy Schlueter can be reached for an information packet via email KSCtryLn@aim.com or USPS mail: 11038 N. Pleasant Hill Rd., Dakota, IL 61018-9755.
