Many people who are deafblind and those who work with them want to improve their communication. The Specialized DeafBlind Training Program meets this need.

What does this program do?

The Specialized DeafBlind Training Program provides communication training. Training is offered in-person and virtually. The trainings are for people who are deafblind, support service providers, interveners, ASL interpreters, speaking deafblind, and providers who work with people who are deafblind. Topics include:

• Protactile
• Tactile interpreting
• Introduction to deafblind interpreting
• Deafblind interpreting advanced skills training
• Working with people who are deaf with low vision and speaking deafblind.

What people say about the program

• "Very rich experience. Thank you."
• "Wonderful experience!"
• "It was a wonderful foundational workshop and I look forward to taking another DeafBlind training. It was a good balance of lecture, hands-on experience, and questions/answers."

Latest news

The Minnesota Speaking DeafBlind Group (MSDBG) holds monthly conference calls for speaking deafblind people. This is a space to connect, share news and resources, and provide ongoing support. A “DeafBlind 101” workshop was held in the spring of 2023. More trainings will be offered in the next year.

Do you have questions about this program?

Erin Bunting, contract administrator, is happy to answer your questions. You can reach Erin by email. You can also visit the Specialized DeafBlind Training Program webpage. 

ASL Interpreting Services manages the Specialized DeafBlind Training grant from the Minnesota Department of Human Services. You can find more details about the grant on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division's grant webpage.