At BEGINNINGS, we believe that every child who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing deserves the support, resources, and encouragement to THRIVE—and that starts with families who feel empowered and informed.

💙 Whether it’s helping a parent understand their child’s diagnosis, providing training for professionals, or simply being a shoulder to lean on. We’re here! But we can't do it without YOU. Give by June 30, the end of our fiscal year, to get 2025-2026 off to a great start! 💙

✨ Ways to Give:
🔁 Sustaining Gift – Be a monthly miracle-maker!
🎁 One-Time Gift – Every dollar fuels support and resources.
🌟 Tribute Gift – Honor someone special (like your amazing Parent Educator)!
🤝 Matching Gift – Double your impact with your employer’s help!

💻 Click to give: https://ncbegin.org/how-to-help/ 
📬 Prefer to mail a check? No problem! Send to our office at 156-A Wind Chime Court, Raleigh, NC 27615
📞 Questions? Call us: 1-800-541-HEAR

Help us keep the joy, connection, and support flowing for families across NC.
Together, we’re building brighter futures—one story, one child, one gift at a time. 💫

This Father’s Day, BEGINNINGS celebrates the incredible fathers whose love and support help their children grow and thrive.

You advocate passionately for access and opportunity and create safe, loving spaces where your child can shine. 🌟👐

Whether you’re learning sign language, navigating new challenges, or simply being there to listen and encourage, your dedication builds confidence and opens doors every day.

Your strength, patience, and unwavering belief in your child’s abilities make all the difference — showing them they are seen, heard, and deeply loved. ❤️👨‍👧‍👦

Thank you for walking this journey with courage and heart. Today, we honor YOU. Happy Father’s Day! 🎉💙🙌

Each June, we recognize DeafBlind Awareness Month, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and diverse experiences of individuals who live with both hearing and vision loss. Inspired by the birth month of Helen Keller, this month reminds us of the power of communication access, connection, and community—especially for families navigating a dual sensory diagnosis.

That’s why BEGINNINGS offers individualized support for families of children who are DeafBlind. Our trained Parent Educators help families:

✅ Understand their child’s diagnosis
✅ Access early intervention and educational services
✅ Explore communication tools and assistive technology
✅ Connect with other families and professionals
✅ Advocate confidently for their child’s needs

From birth through age 22, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

We’ve gathered resources, insights, and encouragement to help families understand and embrace the DeafBlind experience. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or are further along, we invite you to take a few minutes to explore our latest blog post.

June 1 officially kicked off Hurricane Season, and at BEGINNINGS, we want to ensure that all families—especially those with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing—have the information and resources they need to stay safe.

When severe weather hits, preparation is key. For families with unique communication needs, it’s especially important to have a plan that includes accessible alerts, clear evacuation routes, and a reliable support system.

Fortunately, there are many tools available to help the DHH community stay informed:

📹 The National Weather Service offers an excellent ASL Hurricane Awareness video to help families understand how to prepare before a storm.

💡 You can also explore more DHH-focused emergency resources and tips from the NWS here: weather.gov/wrn/dhh-safety

Here are some essential steps to take now:

✅ Create or update your family’s emergency kit

✅ Sign up for accessible weather alerts from your County Emergency Management

✅ Review your evacuation plan and local shelter locations

✅ Stay connected with your support network

We know storms can be overwhelming, but being prepared helps ease anxiety and increases safety for the whole family. Share these resources with your friends, neighbors, and anyone in the DHH community who may benefit.

Being prepared is powerful—stay safe this hurricane season. Find more helpful resources by clicking the button below. 

Meet the Garcia family—Esmeralda, Juan, their daughter Yaneth, and their son Eduardo, a proud 21-year-old whose journey with hearing loss is marked by resilience, passion, and community.

Diagnosed with hearing loss in early childhood, Eduardo uses a cochlear implant and communicates primarily through American Sign Language (ASL). His path hasn’t always been easy, but with the support of BEGINNINGS and their dedicated Parent Educator, Wilma Rivera, the Garcias have grown into confident advocates—not just for their son, but for other families navigating similar experiences.

“Working with BEGINNINGS has been such a blessing,” says Esmeralda. “From the beginning, we were never alone. We had support, guidance, and people who truly cared about our family and Eduardo’s future.”

Now leaders of their local parent support group, the Garcia family exemplifies the power of connection and community. One of their favorite traditions is participating in the Walk4Hearing, a cherished event that reminds them they are part of a strong, united community. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with others and show that we’re not in this alone,” Esmeralda shares.

This year, Eduardo reached a major milestone. He graduated from the Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf. For the Garcia family, this wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a celebration of years of hard work, growth, and determination.

“That day was incredibly emotional,” Esmeralda reflects. “There were so many memories leading up to that moment. Every challenge he faced, every late night, every effort he made. It all led to that stage. Watching him walk across and receive his diploma was one of the proudest moments of our lives. It was more than just a graduation. It was a victory.”

In addition to his academic success, Eduardo is also passionate about soccer. Whether he’s on the field playing with his school team or cheering on his favorite team during the weekends, the sport has been a constant source of joy and motivation.

When asked what advice she would give to new families facing a hearing loss diagnosis, Esmeralda offers a message of strength and hope:
“Don’t be afraid. Ask questions, seek support, and know that your child can thrive. There are resources like BEGINNINGS and people like Wilma who care and are here to help you.”

The Garcia Family wants other families to know that while the road may have its challenges, it’s also filled with moments of pride, both big and small. Eduardo’s graduation is a powerful reminder that with love, support, and perseverance, our children can achieve incredible things.

All of us at BEGINNINGS are so proud to celebrate Eduardo’s success. We’ve watched him grow into a determined, compassionate, and capable young man, and we can’t wait to see all that he will accomplish in this exciting next chapter of his life. Congratulations, Eduardo! You inspire us all!

Mark your calendars! 🎉 BEGINNINGS is headed to the coast for our next Community Connections event in Wilmington on Sunday, September 21st from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at Waterman’s Brewing Company.

Join us for an afternoon of food, fun, and meaningful connection with other families, professionals, and supporters of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Stay tuned for more details. You won’t want to miss it! 📅💙

Save the Date! 📅

Join us for the 2025 North Carolina Walk4Hearing!
Sunday, October 12
🕥 Registration at 10:30 AM
🎤 Presentation at 12:00 PM
🚶‍♂️ Walk begins at 12:15 PM
📍 WakeMed Soccer Park – 201 Soccer Park Drive, Cary, NC 27606

BEGINNINGS is teaming up with the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) to make hearing health a priority for all North Carolina families. Together, we’re raising awareness, increasing access to care, and ensuring that every family has the support they need to thrive with hearing loss.

🎉 Stay tuned—more details are coming soon on how you can join our team and support this important cause!

🌞 Summer is heating up, and so is the NCDSDHH June events calendar! Check out these upcoming events across North Carolina:

📍 Charlotte Region
✨ Signing Social - Hamlet
June 25 | 7–10 PM | Van Dyke Performance Space
🎭 Enjoy a signed performance of Hamlet – free with RSVP!

📍 Raleigh Region
🎨 ASL Tour at NC Museum of Art
June 21 | 10 AM–12 PM
Explore art through an accessible, guided experience in ASL!

📍 Wilmington Region
🌊 Beach Day with Coastal Deaf Social
June 21 | 9 AM–3 PM | North Topsail Beach
Fun in the sun, sand, and sign language!

💬 Save the dates, invite a friend, and make new connections!

Summer is here — and it’s the perfect time to slow down, explore, and make meaningful memories together! Whether you're planning a big trip or enjoying the sunshine close to home, we've created a special Summer 2025 Bucket List just for families like yours.

🧳 Travel Tips for Accessible Adventures

🔹Plan Ahead: Look for attractions with ASL interpretation, captioning, or assistive devices.
🔹Pack Smart: Bring communication tools like tablets, apps, or video relay services.
🔹Inform Airlines/Hotels: Request visual alerts or captioned entertainment.
🔹Prep with Your Child: Go over signs or phrases you’ll use on the trip.

From Asheville to the Outer Banks, North Carolina offers inclusive fun for every family:

🔹Asheville: Biltmore Estate, Nature Center, Folk Art Center
🔹Raleigh/Greensboro: Museums, NC Zoo, State Parks
🔹Coast: Fort Fisher Aquarium, Tryon Palace, Deaf-friendly beaches

✅ Download Your Summer 2025 Bucket List

We’ve put together fun, accessible ideas across the state of North Carolina that you can enjoy with your families. Activities like:
🎨 ASL art projects • 📚 Storytelling sessions • 🏖️ Beach days • 🎤 ASL karaoke • 📱 Try new tech tools

💙 BEGINNINGS Is Here for You
Need help planning activities or finding resources? We’re here to support you all summer long.
📞 (919) 715-4092 | 🌐 www.ncbegin.org 

📸 Tag us on social media — we’d love to see your summer adventures!
👉 Facebook: @NCBegin | 📷 Instagram: @ncbeginnings 🌞🌊🌈

Here’s to a summer full of sunshine, connection, and joy! 🌈

Since joining BEGINNINGS in January 2025, Bilingual Parent Educator, Emilio Gonzalez, has brought more than professional experience to the team. He’s brought a heart for service, a spirit of compassion, and a deep commitment to families.

With a background rooted in education and a passion for lifelong learning, he describes himself first and foremost as a servant. “Teaching and learning are essential parts of who I am,” he says, “but above all, I am driven by a deep desire to serve others.” This philosophy shines through in every aspect of his work.

Before coming to BEGINNINGS, he was spending nearly five hours each day commuting to work. During a determined job search, he came across BEGINNINGS, and the mission immediately resonated. “I was looking for a space where I could grow professionally while also making a meaningful contribution. BEGINNINGS seemed like a perfect opportunity to channel my calling.”

As a Bilingual Parent Educator, he offers guidance, resources, and heartfelt support to families navigating hearing loss. “What I enjoy most is being able to assist each family as if they were part of my own,” he shares. Whether it’s a moment of joy or a moment of uncertainty, he meets each family with empathy, care, and dedication.

While he’s humble about accomplishments, he finds the most pride in everyday moments, the shared smiles, the quiet tears, the sincere thank-yous from families who feel seen and supported. “Knowing that I am there for them in important moments is what makes me proud of what I do.”

Each day at BEGINNINGS brings something new, whether it’s facilitating a workshop, conducting a home visit, or connecting families with resources. But no matter the task, human connection remains at the core of his role. “My day revolves around listening, guiding, and serving with empathy.”

Since joining the team, he’s found that empathy, clear communication, and teamwork have shaped his growth. “Working hand in hand with a supportive team ready to help at any time has been an enriching experience.”

We’re honored to have such a compassionate and dedicated member on the BEGINNINGS team. His presence reminds us that the work we do is not just professional. It’s deeply personal. As he says so beautifully, “Serving others is transformative.”

Greensboro Community Connections was a resounding success on June 8th at Steel Hands Brewing Company! 🎉 We welcomed over 100 participants, including families, professionals, and community members for a day of delicious food and drinks, live music, great conversation, crafts for the children, and amazing silent auction items. A heartfelt thank you ❤️ goes out to everyone who joined us on this wonderful day, and to the dedicated staff and volunteers 🙌 who made this event possible. We look forward to seeing everyone again in Greensboro next year! 📅✨

We’re so grateful to everyone who helped make our Greensboro Community Connections event a day to remember!

🎶 A big THANK YOU to The Craig Vaughn Experience for sharing your musical talents and setting the perfect tone for fun and connection!

👏 A heartfelt shoutout to our sponsors:
🌟Silver Sponsor: AIM Hearing
🌟Friend of BEGINNINGS: Graham & Kelly Day and Maggie Clay Love Consulting

Your generosity helped bring families together and made this event possible!

💬 Thank you to our incredible vendors who shared resources, answered questions, and supported families every step of the way:

✨Pediatric Speech and Language Services
✨The CARE Project
✨NC Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing – Medicaid Access Services
✨Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist – Dept. of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery
✨Cochlear Americas

Thanks to each of you, families left feeling informed, supported, and connected. 💫

This month, Parent Educator Karen Thomas had the pleasure of supporting a family during a school meeting at the Western North Carolina School for the Deaf. 💙

At BEGINNINGS, our Parent Educators travel far and wide to walk alongside families to help parents feel informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way. 🙌🏽📚

We are proud to share the heartwarming story that highlights one of our BEGINNINGS families. Luis a joyful 5-year-old boy born with bilateral microtia and atresia. Thanks to the powerful collaboration between Cochlear Americas, Ear Community, and dedicated professionals in our community, Luis recently received the incredible gift of hearing!

When Luis began struggling to hear at school and at home, his mother, Obdulia, sought support. With the help of Dr. Ashleigh Starnes at Atrium Health and Gheydis Paredes, Bilingual Parent Educator at BEGINNINGS, the family was connected to Ear Community, where they applied for hearing devices. On May 21st, Luis was fitted with two Baha 6 Max bone conduction devices from Cochlear Americas — a life-changing moment that brought smiles, hope, and new possibilities.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made this possible: Ear Community, Cochlear Americas, Dr. Starnes, and our own Gheydis Paredes. And most of all, thank you to Luis’ family for their strength, love, and determination. We can’t wait to see all the ways Luis will continue to grow and shine with better access to sound! 💫

Diane Doak
Executive Director

Happy Father’s Day! In June, we celebrate the fathers in our lives. I have fond memories of singing his favorite cowboy songs with my Dad, being his helper around the house and getting up early on vacation to get coffee and donuts! I especially remember how kind and attentive he was with his grandchildren, especially my own 2 boys. When my youngest needed surgery at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, we were fortunate to be able to stay with my parents. My father always accompanied us to the hospital and was there to support me whenever needed. One time my son was discharged in the middle of a snow storm. My father plowed his way out of the city with all of us in the old station wagon because he wanted his family to be safe at home!!

Fathers play an important role for any child. But when your child has a hearing loss the importance is amplified. Father involvement improves educational and psychological development. Talking with dads about their interests expands language and vocabulary growth. Hearing your father advocate for your educational needs is empowering for your child and is a good model for your child’s future advocacy skills.

Over the years I have observed fathers taking more active roles in their child’s development. My own son travels less than my husband did and has a more equal partnership in the daily child rearing with his wife. Even in the work we do at BEGINNINGS we have seen this increase. In 2001, about 17% of our family engagement was with fathers. This year, we are seeing 25%. And with the increased availability of virtual meetings, I expect that number to continue to increase. So, a big THANK YOU to all the fathers and father figures out there. Enjoy your big day!

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