The Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing, as part of the Interpreting Forward 2030 team, is working to make interpreting services better and more available.

To make this happen, we’re creating a team of leaders to guide the work. This team will build a larger group, called the Interpreting Forward 2030 Coalition, using a model called Collective Impact. Our goal is to bring together many different voices (people from the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities, interpreters, advocates, and others) to create long-term, meaningful change.

We’re looking for four committed people to join the Guiding Team. The Guiding Team will help lead the work, shape the vision, set goals, create strategies, and ensure the work is community-driven.

Team members will receive a small stipend (payment) for their time and contributions.

Who should apply?

We welcome people with passion and experience in one or more of these areas:

Community members: Deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing individuals who have strong ties to the community.

Interpreters: Deaf Interpreters, hearing Interpreters, and leaders in interpreting.

Policy & advocacy: People with experience working on policy, funding, or systems change.

Data & evaluation: People who are skilled in collecting and analyzing data, and measuring success.

Community engagement: People who know how to connect with communities and share information in accessible ways.

Project management: People experienced in managing groups, coordinating projects, or leading meetings.

Collaboration: People who thrive in group work and have a collaborative nature. 

What you'll do

As a Guiding Team member, you will:

• Work with data and resources to help build a shared vision and plan.
• Make decisions and take action to move the project forward.
• Support open communication and include voices from the community.
• Help build a coalition that is fair, lasting, and meets everyone’s needs.
• Attend monthly meetings and actively participate for about 12 to 18 months.

Why join?

This is your chance to help lead a powerful effort that will shape the future of interpreting services in Minnesota and beyond. Your voice and leadership will make a real difference for the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities—and for interpreters across the state.

How to apply

Send a short statement about why you're interested and share your background by using our online Interpreting Forward 2030 Guiding Team application form.

The deadline to apply is July 28, 2025.

If you have questions or need help with your application, please reach out to darlene.g.zangara@state.mn.us. We want the application process to be inclusive and accessible to everyone. The board executive committee will review and recommend the applicants for the Guiding Team.

Learn more about the Interpreting Forward 2030 initiative by visiting the website.

Thank you for your interest in improving interpreting services. We’re excited to hear from you!

Warmly,

Darlene Zangara
Executive Director
Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing
Interpreting Forward 2030 Guiding Team