Deaf help center

The first Deaf Center in the Capital District area, perhaps even the first in the State of New York is symbolic of

what the Capital District Deaf Center, Inc. (CDDC) has meant to the deaf, hearing impaired and persons who
are interested in deafness. It means the opportunity to participate in a total deaf community experience.
Founded by a group of deaf individuals with Father Michael D. Clemente in 1975, the Center has become the
hub of deaf community activities. It is a place for educational, emotional, social and recreational affairs for all
ages who are working toward improving the quality of life for deaf people.

Since 1975, the members of CDDC have worked hard with programs, activities, and services. The have moved
location to location until, in 1978, the Deaf Center was able to successfully invest the impressive Old Niskayuna
School building. This building was intended to serve the deaf community of the Capital District as their Deaf
Center. All of this was based on voluntary action supported by a dedicated membership and by other interested
in the goals of CDDC. Membership includes deaf, hearing impaired, parents of deaf children, professionals,
students and other concerned individuals.

A new Volunteer program as been established at the Deaf Center, although there is a continued need to hire
additional professional and clerical staff to assist in the everyday functions of CDDC. The Volunteer program is
widely varied in serving the deaf community. The objective of this program is to increase better communication
and awareness of deafness among the deaf and hearing communities, in order to break the "silent" barrier.