The Hearing Loss Association of America® (HLAA) is the nation’s leading consumer membership organization for people with hearing loss. The mission of HLAA is to open the world of communication for people with hearing loss through information, education, advocacy and support. HLAA programs and services include:
Information and Support
There are 36 million people with hearing loss in the United States. Each year more than 20,000 individuals with hearing loss or their families contact HLAA asking for material, resources, support and referrals. Staff provides personalized responses to requests.
Hearingloss.org
With nearly 200,000 hits each year, our website is one of the most-visited sites related to hearing loss in the world. People find information about hearing aids, hearing loss management, advocacy, cochlear implants and other technology, resources and communication strategies for family and friends. Webinars with renowned experts in the field are held regularly.
Hearing Loss Magazine
Published bimonthly since 1980, this award-winning magazine tells real-life stories of people with hearing loss and their families, informs readers of cutting-edge technology, and provides updates about HLAA’s advocacy efforts to create a better future for people with hearing loss. An online e-News of current events complements the magazine.
National Support Network
Includes over 200 local chapters and 14 state organizations, providing support, information, advocacy and education at the local level.
Walk4Hearing
The Walk4Hearing raises awareness about hearing loss, helps to eradicate the stigma associated with it and raises funds to provide information and support for people with hearing loss. Since 2006, the Walk4Hearing has raised more than $5 million and has become the largest walk program for people with hearing loss taking place in multiple cities across the United States. Money raised from the Walk4Hearing is split between the local Walk site’s community and the HLAA national organization.
HLAA Annual Convention
The nation’s largest communication accessible consumer conference and trade show for people with hearing loss, with technology manufacturers, service providers, and numerous educational seminars.
The National Center for Hearing Assistive Technology
Provides demonstrations and training in the use of assistive technology nationwide as well as online resources and information.
Hearing Loss Support Specialists Training (HLSST)
An online, distance-learning program teaching core knowledge about hearing loss to consumers and those who serve people with hearing loss and those who want to learn more about available resources.
Public Policy and Advocacy
HLAA staff advocate for consumer issues such as the hearing aid tax credit initiative, captioning, Medicare initiatives, insurance coverage, cochlear implant reimbursement, newborn infant hearing screening, and telecommunications compatibility. HLAA has representation on corporate advisory boards, government agencies, coalitions, educational institutions and nonprofit organizations.
Leadership Development
HLAA recruits and trains volunteers at the local, state and national levels to provide leadership, spearhead advocacy efforts, support people with hearing loss, increase membership, and work to make hearing loss an issue of national concern.