"Unrealized Dreams: Stories of Deaf Individuals with Unique Needs"

Available soon from the PEPNet Dissemination Center

During the 2008 PEPNet Conference held in Columbus, Ohio, professionals from across the country had their first glimpse of a new DVD that focuses attention on deaf individuals with distinct needs.

Unrealized Dreams: Stories of Deaf Individuals with Unique Needs is the result of two years of collaboration between Theresa Johnson, Education Specialist for the Texas Region 4 Education Service Center and the PEPNet-West team of Cathy McLeod, Director and Mary Morrison, Associate Director. The DVD and accompanying booklet were developed as a tool to create a greater awareness of people who are deaf or hard of hearing and who are also "underserved", "at risk" or "low functioning".

The DVD introduces several remarkable individuals who have experienced success in overcoming barriers to living, working and recreating in their communities. Each DVD, differing in length: 8 minutes, 18 minutes and 35 minutes, allows flexibility for facilitators incorporating this media into presentations.

A companion booklet, written by Marguerite (Peg) Harmon, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona and Theresa Johnson, provides supplemental information and insight into this underserved and high risk group within the community of deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Systemic problems are discussed including late and/or incorrect diagnoses, as well the complication of co-occurring disabilities and/or social economic barriers. Also discussed are the programs and services necessary to achieve successful outcomes.

Unrealized Dreams: Stories of Deaf Individuals with Unique Needs will soon be available through the PEPNet Dissemination Center at: http://pdc.pepnet.org/. Unrealized Dreams is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Office of Special Education Program and the Region 4 Education Service Center.