All program staff are fluent in American Sign Language, have a knowledge of Deaf Culture, and are trained in the techniques used to teach and/or counsel this population.
The Life Skills Development Program serves clients who are deaf, intellectually disabled and/or have mental health needs by offering instruction and experiences that improve daily living skills and foster independence. This program provides clients with the opportunity to experience self-growth through improved communication and social interaction. All program staff are fluent in American Sign Language, have a knowledge of Deaf Culture, and are trained in the techniques used to teach and/or counsel this population.
Clients acquire important reading, writing, and math skills. Depending on proficiency, clients might focus on learning basic concepts like reading simple sentences to more advanced skills like completing multiplication problems.
This training emphasizes social awareness and helps clients build strong interpersonal relationships. Clients become familiar with workplace conventions, including job interviewing and placement, work attitudes, and income.
Clients learn about personal hygiene, nutrition, and the human body. As part of health awareness, clients learn exercises for staying physically fit.
Instructors teach a range of topics, from basic typing to Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, to accommodate different skills levels.
Clients learn about American Sign Language and conversation etiquette in the Deaf community (ways of interacting, taking turns, getting attention).
Headquarters
412-281-1375 (voice/TTY)
info@hdscenter.org
1945 Fifth Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Westmoreland Office
724-832-7600 (voice/TTY)
724-216-0149 (video phone)
1011 Old Salem Rd, Suite 102
Greensburg, PA 15601
Erie Office
814-520-8828 (voice)
814-636-1761 (video phone)
1600 Peninsula Drive, Suite 12 Erie, PA 16505
HDS is a testing site for the RID NIC Interview & Performance Exam (NICPE). Refer to RID’s website for information.
Free Smoke Detectors to people with Hearing Loss for City Of Pittsburgh Residents only. Email us at: smokedetector@hdscenter.org.