The Viability DHILS (Deaf and Hard of Hearing Independent Living Services) Program is a peer-to-peer service that seeks to empower deaf and hard of hearing people with skills to obtain information, develop goals, and move their life in the direction of their choice. The program’s staff are all professionals that are Deaf, late-deafened, or hard of hearing who provide the following support:

• Peer mentoring
• Self-advocacy training
• Training on a wide range of independent living skills topics such as the use of technology including assistive technology, communication skills, financial literacy, Wellness, Public benefits, transportation, housing, and so much more
•  Recreational and socialization opportunities
• Access, education, and training of assistive communication equipment
• Information and referral to additional community services
• Information and supports in the centered-on family, education, and employment

Viability accepts referrals from other agencies and individuals may self-refer by contacting our offices. To qualify, individuals must:

• Be 18 years or older,
• Identify as deaf or hard of hearing,
• Reside in the Western Massachusetts or Berkshire region,

and must not qualify for other state agency funding such as Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH) or Massachusetts Developmental Services (DDS). 

The Viability DHILS is funded by the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH) and serves all communities in Hamden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties.

We’re here to help.