We’re pleased to share that Dominique Godlewski, Director of our Westmoreland Office and the Deaf Youth & Friends Program, has successfully completed the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s Connect U program—a professional development initiative focused on building nonprofit leadership and community engagement skills. Connect U offers participants the opportunity to explore the inner workings of nonprofit organizations, deepen their understanding of philanthropy, and build lasting relationships across sectors. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, exposure to community resources, and the development of practical tools for leading with impact. Reflecting on her experience, Dominique shared: "In this program we were able to meet many nonprofits and take away philanthropic leadership skills. We were able to develop friendships and networks that serve us and our communities. I was able to learn about programs that I did not even know existed. With learning about all of the nonprofits I now have connections and can send them referrals, vice versa. We dove deep into grant planning and what it takes to not only make a grant but to apply for one. This was a wonderful opportunity." Dominique’s participation in Connect U reflects HDS’s ongoing commitment to staff development and community-focused leadership. The knowledge and connections she brings back from the program will help strengthen our work across Westmoreland County and beyond. We commend Dominique for her dedication and are proud to support her continued growth in service of our mission!

HDS is the region’s sole non-profit provider of deaf and hard of hearing programs and services, but we don't do this work alone. We are proud of community partners and advocates who support our mission and vision of inclusion and accesibliity.

Creating an inclusive environment has been the mission of the Center for Hearing & Deaf Services for a century.