National Sign Language Interpretation Service
National Sign Language Interpretation Service for Deaf Victims
About the Service
Activating Change’s Sign Language Interpreting Service for Deaf Victims closes the communication gap for Deaf victims of crime by providing qualified, trauma-informed remote sign language interpretation services – using safe and secure technology – free of charge to victim service providers serving Deaf victims of crime. Victim service providers must meet eligibility requirements and apply to participate.
The service also provides expert guidance, tools, and resources to strengthen organization’s capacity to effectively secure, prepare and work with sign language interpreters of different specializations, including Deaf Interpreters and trilingual interpreters.
Who is Eligible to Receive Interpretation Services
Any victim services organization in the United States is eligible to apply to participate in the service. At this time, we cannot provide interpretation services for:
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- Law enforcement: on scene response, interview, or investigation
- Prosecution and courts: interviews, investigation, or court proceedings
- Medical: any healthcare services including forensic exams
Now Accepting Applications for 2024
Applications for the National Sign Language Interpreter Service for Deaf Victims are currently open. You can access the application online. Applications are due by Friday, January 19, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Past applicants will need to reapply to be considered for this round.
Please note: The application does not save your progress. It is best to complete the application in one session, as your input will not be saved. A PDF version of the application is available for review.
Watch Our Informational Session to Learn More
Our Informational Webinar
On Tuesday, January 9, 2024, Esther Fass and Nancy Smith provided an overview of Activating Change’s remote sign language interpretation service for victim service providers. The video with answers to who is eligible to receive services, how the service works and the technology providers needed to connect with interpreters remotely is available for review.
Frequently Ask Questions
If you need more information or have any questions about the service or the application, please consult our frequently asked questions or watch the recording from our informational session on our interpreting service.
- Word Document: FAQ – Informational-Session-Questions-and-Answers
- PDF Document: FAQ – Informational-Session-Questions-and-Answers
Our Interpreters
- Qualified. Our interpreters can both receptively and expressively interpret accurately and effectively.
- Trauma-informed. Our interpreters have been trained in victimization and trauma, and they understand how trauma impacts communication.
- Knowledgeable. Our interpreters are familiar with the concepts and terms specific to victim services, as well as the services and systems victims often navigate.
- Experienced. Our interpreters have experience with video remote interpreting and are equipped with high-speed internet, a private workspace, and excellent lighting.
- Diverse. Our interpreters reflect the diversity of Deaf communities. This allows us to match interpreters and victims who share cultural, racial, gender, and other identities.
How the Service Works
Contact Us for More Information
For more information about the interpreter service, please contact us at DeafAccess@activatingchange.org.