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Exploration 09'
Transition Programs for
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teenagers

The Marion Downs Hearing Center recognizes the need for increased options for young adults in order to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to live independently. MDHC offers an annual innovative program that encourages young adults to interact with peers, explore career-building resources, and develop new strengths for future opportunities. Our philosophy is to provide a comfortable environment to connect and grow.

This year, we're adding the Presidential Service Award program, offering deaf and hard of hearing teenagers the opportunity to volunteer their time in a positive environment, gaining confidence and developing critical skills for their goals beyond high school.

MAY 5 - Day Conference
School districts send their deaf and hard of hearing students to our campus to spend a day in May learning about access to resources, advancements in technology, and practical skills needed to successfully transition toward achieving their goals for beyond high school.

JUNE 12, 19, & 26 - Connect and Grow
Focused on developing the practical skills needed to transition from high school to emerging adulthood, this 3-day program will empower teenagers to become successful young adults. Skills development and training will include:
**Smiles and Nods and Nerves -- Being confident in new, unfamiliar social settings
**Knowledge Is Power -- How to access assistive technology and information
**The Career Ladder -- Getting ahead in life
**Self-Advocacy -- Promoting personal strengths


JUNE 13, 20; JULY 11, 18, & 25 - Reach Your Peak!
Led by Rocky Mountain National Park Ranger and Long's Peak expert, Jim Detterline will use his park expertise to gradually prepare the teenagers to ascent Long's Peak at the end of the summer, a 14,000 foot mountain. Jim Detterline will also share his personal experience growing up hard of hearing to inspire the teenagers to overcome challenges that will confront them throughout life.

JUNE 2009 - MAY 2010 - Volunteer Service Program
The Marion Downs Hearing Center has partnered with the President's Volunteer Service Award program which recognizes the number of hours served over a 12-month period. This program will provide deaf and hard of hearing teenagers with opportunities to contribute volunteer service hours in a positive enviornment free of communication barriers and under the supervision of mentors and role models. Depending on the level of hours contributed, teens will receive a certified Presidential Award certificate and medallion, a notable accomplishment that can be added to a job resume, college application, or scholarship application.

2009 Program Brochure

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