Iona’s very own American Sign Language Club is heading to Riverside Park in NYC on Sept. 15 to take part in the Walk4Hearing fundraiser. Hoping to raise money and awareness for hearing loss, Iona Gaels are making their mark on the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) community. Walk4Hearing, which is the largest event for the HLAA, started in 2006 and has provided tremendous support for the hearing loss community and their friends and families. Having raised over $19.2 million, Walk4Hearing helps educate those at the walks about resources that are offered as well as encourage people to support those with hearing loss in any way they can. Iona’s ASL Club, which was founded in 2019, has taken part in the NYC walk and raised money for the community. Emily Blattberg, who is a senior studying speech-language pathology and is the ASL Club President, says it is one of her favorite events she attends during the school year.
“It is very important for the ASL Club to participate in the Walk4Hearing because it allows us to become immersed in thecommunity we strive to advocate for,” Blattberg said. “I love meeting fellow participants and getting to learn more about the communities involved.”
In the U.S., nearly 50 million people have hearing loss and untreated hearing loss can unfortunately even lead to other health conditions. This is what the Walk4Hearing event is all about. Bringing awareness to those who might not understand the severity of hearing loss or how they could be at risk based on what they do in their lives.
By having a massive walk/fundraiser in numerous cities around America, HLAA offers a place for people to feel seen. At times, people may feel isolated or alone due to their hearing loss, but they shouldn’t, and that is what this walk is all about. Participants, sponsors, and volunteers are what make this event possible.Having people show up is what makes the difference, whether it be through donations, involvement or offering help. There are numerous ways to get involved and the more people who immerse themselves in this event, the more awareness that gets brought to those being affected by hearing loss. If you want to get involved, you can sign up to participate in the walk by visiting the HLAA’s Walk4Hearing website. Donations are greatly appreciated and can also be found at the same website. More information about this event can be found at Iona’s ASL Club Instagram page @ionaaslclub.
