With numerous charitable organizations available to consider, selecting one can seem like a daunting task. Selecting which charities to support financial is based on several factors including the cause itself, the reputation of the organization and the intended use of the funds. Look for a large, well-known hearing health charity organization that is right for you, and join knowing you are helping a good cause.
- Hearing Health Foundation – Hearing Health Foundation was founded in the 1950s by Collette Baker Ramsey to help serve people with hearing loss. The organization has two main areas of focus. One is research into new treatments and cures for hearing loss. The other is hearing loss prevention through public education. For example, the largest research project at the moment focuses on cures for tinnitus. The Hearing Health Foundation makes it easy for supporters to get involved. You can make any cash donations or contribute gifts in the form of stock. You can write and share a personal experience with hearing loss, assist in fundraising, and even name a research grant. Visit their website at www.hearinghealthfoundation.org for more information, news and updates.
- Hearing Loss Association of America – The largest organization dedicated to helping people with hearing loss is the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA). HLAA provides education, resources, and support to people with hearing loss and to their families. HLAA does work on a local, state and national level and part of its mission is to influence legislation that impacts the hearing impaired. You can begin by signing up for their newsletter, becoming a member of the organization, or registering for one of their bi-annual fundraiser walks called Walk4Hearing. Donations are also accepted online at www.hearingloss.org.
- Starkey Hearing Foundation РAs a huge national and global foundation, Starkey Hearing Foundation provides hearing health services in three ways: Hear Now, Listen Carefully, and Hearing Aid Recycling. Listen Carefully is an educational program aimed at young people to educate them about the harm that loud noise and headphone use can cause. Their Hearing Aid Recycling program offers a place for you to donate your old hearing aids as gifts to those who can’t otherwise afford them. The Hear Now program focuses on providing hearing aids to those who cannot afford them on their own. Visit the Starkey Hearing Foundation website at www.starkeyhearingfoundation.org for more details about each individual program or to make a donation.