Serving the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and those experiences Hearing Loss
Hearing Aids, American Sign Language, and Phones with Closed Captions are all part of making communication and independence possible for the deaf and hard of hearing. (Top and Middle: Canva, Bottom: clearcaptions.com)
Imagine waking up one morning and discovering that conversations have become difficult. The voices of family members sound distant. Phone calls become frustrating. Community events feel harder to navigate. Even routine appointments can suddenly become stressful.
For many people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or experiencing hearing loss, these challenges are part of everyday life. The good news is that no one has to face them alone.
At LIFTT, we believe that communication is independence.
Being able to communicate effectively opens doors to employment, healthcare, education, friendships, community involvement, and self-advocacy. When communication barriers are reduced, opportunities expand, and people gain greater control over their own lives.
Many people are surprised to learn that Centers for Independent Living serve individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or experiencing hearing loss. LIFTT’s Independent Living Specialists work alongside consumers to identify goals, remove barriers, and connect them with resources that support greater independence and full participation in community life.
LIFTT can assist individuals by providing information and referral services, helping people navigate available programs and resources, and connecting consumers with organizations that specialize in hearing-related services. We can help individuals explore captioned telephone programs, learn about hearing aid resources, locate American Sign Language classes, and identify community supports available to them.
Our staff also provides advocacy and independent living support. Whether someone needs assistance understanding available options, advocating for accessibility, or connecting with local and statewide resources, LIFTT is committed to helping individuals make informed choices and achieve their goals.
Hearing loss can occur gradually or suddenly. It can affect people of all ages, though it becomes increasingly common as we grow older. Many individuals delay seeking assistance because they believe hearing loss is simply part of aging. However, early intervention and access to resources can make a significant difference in maintaining social connections, confidence, and quality of life.
For those who communicate through American Sign Language, hearing technology, captioning services, or a combination of communication methods, independence begins with access. Access leads to participation. Participation leads to belonging.
At LIFTT, we are committed to creating communities where everyone can communicate, contribute, and thrive.
If you or someone you know is Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or experiencing hearing loss, contact LIFTT today. Our Independent Living Specialists are ready to listen, help, and connect you with resources that can support your journey toward greater independence. Because everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard, understood, and included. For more information, please contact Pamela Ramirez, Independent Living Program Manager at (406) 259-5189 or pamelar@liftt.org.
About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs, services, resources and advocacy that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple device.
Our Vision: Empowering aging individuals and people with disabilities to LIFTT themselves above the barriers of life.
Our Mission: Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow’s (LIFTT’s) mission as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Center for Independent Living serving Southeastern Montana is to empower aging individuals and people with disabilities to live independently through education, support, and opportunities.