Erie County Legislator John Mills recently honored Deaf Access Services during Deaf Awareness Month and named September 17^th through the 26^th as Deaf Awareness Week in Erie County. The purpose being to increase public awareness in order to educate the public about the misconceptions of being deaf and make the deaf community aware of the types of educational programs, support services and resources available to them.

Legislator Mills presented members of Deaf Access Services with a proclamation to honor the hard work they put into empowering all people in the community to lead fulfilling lives. The organization was first established in 1983 by volunteers who wanted to lend a helping hand to the deaf community and to this day, it is the only agency of its kind serving the eight counties of Western New York.

Deaf Access Services works with People Inc. to reach individuals throughout the Western New York area and provides communication access, awareness, opportunities in the community and sponsors awareness initiatives, outreaches, fundraising and facilitates American Sign Language classes.

Legislator Mills said, “Members of the deaf community deserve to have the same opportunities as everyone else and organizations like Deaf Access Services help make that a reality. Take time to educate yourselves on the struggles deaf individuals face each day and you will be amazed to see how they overcome every challenge thrown their way.”