Did you see our staff at the Deaf Plus Conference in Fremont? Hosted by Golden Gate Regional Center and Regional Center of the East Bay on September 13, 2025, the event brought together people served by regional centers, Department staff, community partners, and advocates to share resources and to celebrate Deaf Awareness Month.
The day focused on inclusion, collaboration, and building a stronger understanding of DeafPlus individuals. The term “DeafPlus” refers to people with disabilities in the Deaf community.
As part of the Department’s ongoing work, Statewide Deaf Access Specialist Lisa Gonzalez shared two new efforts designed to strengthen communication and person-centered support:
- A new ASL Training and Support service. This is the first service in the nation addressing training for Deaf individuals with IDDs to build communication skills in different settings
- New person-centered trainers fluent in ASL who are available to provide training
Cultural Specialist Sandra Coss was there: “It was inspiring to hear from speakers, learn from shared experiences, and connect with partners committed to equity and inclusion,” Sandra said.
Activities included:
- an artist led sewing activity by DeafBlind RCEB client Teresa Lambert
- self-guided art sessions from Creative Growth Art Center
- a Deaf magician performing illusions
- a deaf artist performing songs in American Sign Language
Breakout sessions covered topics such as “More than a Case File: Reclaiming Human Connection in DeafPlus Services,” “Communication Styles of Our Community,” and “IEP Advocacy.” These sessions shared helpful ideas for developing educational experiences that reflect each individual’s communication styles, strengths, and needs.
This conference helped strengthen partnerships and reminded us why continued investment in accessible, person-centered communication is so important.