Children's Hearing and Speech Centre of BC Inc.

The Children's Hearing and Speech Centre of BC Inc. (CHSC) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clinical and educational services for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Established in 1963, it is a registered charity under the Canada Revenue Agency with the business registration number 119282044RR0001[3].

Background

Originally founded as the Vancouver Oral Centre for Deaf Children by a group of parents and Hilda Gregory, a pioneering educator of the deaf, CHSC has evolved into the only listening and spoken language centre in Western Canada[4]. The organization's history reflects its commitment to helping children who are deaf or hard of hearing achieve their full potential in a hearing world.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of CHSC is to positively impact the lives of children who are deaf or hard of hearing, their families, and communities. They focus on early identification and intervention, providing specialized education and services to support children from newborns to Grade 3 students. Additionally, they offer support for students up to Grade 12 attending independent schools across British Columbia[3].

Programs and Services

CHSC offers a comprehensive range of programs aimed at teaching listening and spoken language skills, creating a supportive environment that encourages children to develop these skills without relying on sign language[3]. Their services include:

• Early Intervention: Services for newborns, infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and Kindergarten to Grade 3 students.
• Independent School Support: Assistance for students enrolled in independent schools throughout BC.
• Professional Development: Leadership in deaf education through staff training and community engagement.
• Family Support: Emphasis on involving parents in the educational process and supporting their choices regarding communication and technology.

Impact and Community Involvement

CHSC's programs have been instrumental in helping countless children integrate into mainstream education systems effectively. Alumni families often credit the centre for providing a solid foundation for their children's educational success[1]. The organization works closely with families across BC, fostering a supportive network that extends beyond local communities.