What We Do
Learn More about our Community Projects, partners, and Outreach
Thompson Hall Renovation/Elevator Project
Since 1916, Charles Thompson Memorial Hall has been the heartbeat and principal social hub for Deaf people throughout Minnesota. It is considered one of the oldest Deaf Clubs in the world. It is vital for our community to save what has been home for generations before us and what could be home for generations after us.
This is one of Deaf Equity's biggest and most long-term projects. The landmark building is not accessible or inclusive for many of our cherished patrons and community members. To welcome all people, we must add an elevator, as well as preserve and renovate the building.
Since July 2017, Deaf Equity along with Thompson Hall's Executive Board, Keystone Interpreting Solutions, and members of the community have been working together to reach our goal. Help us make this dream come true!
Census 2020
Deaf Equity worked with community partners to make sure Minnesota's Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Community filled out the 2020 census. Accurately filling out the census makes sure our community is counted and represented at all levels of government!
Volunteer Program
Deaf Equity hosts conversations, opportunities, and provides support where it is needed. We go to our community members, their organizations, clubs and events. We have a list of volunteers that have expertise in different skills and are matched with the community individual or organization/club and need. We are not limited in what we can provide.
"Deaf Equity was there for our Deaf Women of Minnesota organization and offering us the support we needed to relaunch. They are all volunteers and gave us their time and support, such a blessing."
- Katy Kelly, President of Deaf Women of Minnesota
Family Friendly Engagement Opportunities
It is important to us at Deaf Equity that families have access to opportunities to engage, learn, and socialize. Some of our events have included working with the local Police (who sign) and firefighters to educate us on safety concerns. Through these opportunities, we can begin to remove fears that some members had about interacting with Police. We also host events like a Holiday Party where children can meet and talk to Santa in ASL!
Community Causes
Deaf Equity is proud to work with community organizations and various groups to support our intersectional Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Communities. We have worked with #OffTheGridAdmissions to collect supplies for classrooms and helped to provide food for people who were unable to leave their homes during these hard times. We also proudly support the Minnesota Deaf Queer organization, as well as the Deaf Muslim Community of Minnesota!
Community Partnerships
Deaf Equity is proud to work with our community partners, from supporting other non-profits to helping with community projects. Here are just some of our community partnerships!
Thank you to Quota International of Minneapolis for their continued financial support of scholarships for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind students, as well as funding many of our community events like Signing Santa and the Community Cookout!
Community Partnerships and Non-Profit Organization Partners:
