About Our Story
Serving individuals, families, churches, and organizations
committed to inclusive connection.
Our History, Mission, and Community Impact
Hands That Speak Volumes (HTSV) is a grassroot, non-profit that was founded in May 2005 and received its 501(c)(3) status in July of the same year. The organization was created to address an urgent need for more community American Sign Language interpreters and greater participation of Deaf community members in social events and everyday community life.
For over 20 years, our mission has been clear: to improve the quality of life for people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Greater Cleveland and for their families. We believe that communication access is essential to belonging, participation, and opportunity.
Today, Hands That Speak Volumes continues to serve Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals while working alongside families, churches, educators, service providers, and community organizations across Greater Cleveland. Through education, advocacy, and community partnerships, our programs support communication access across generations and in the places where inclusion matters most—schools, places of worship, community events, and everyday interactions.
By fostering understanding and collaboration, we help build a community where Deaf and hearing individuals can connect, participate, and thrive together.
Our History, Mission, and Community Impact
Hands That Speak Volumes (HTSV) is a grassroot, non-profit that was founded in May 2005 and received its 501(c)(3) status in July of the same year. The organization was created to address an urgent need for more community American Sign Language interpreters and greater participation of Deaf community members in social events and everyday community life.
For over 20 years, our mission has been clear: to improve the quality of life for people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Greater Cleveland and for their families. We believe that communication access is essential to belonging, participation, and opportunity.
Today, Hands That Speak Volumes continues to serve Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals while working alongside families, churches, educators, service providers, and community organizations across Greater Cleveland. Through education, advocacy, and community partnerships, our programs support communication access across generations and in the places where inclusion matters most—schools, places of worship, community events, and everyday interactions.
By fostering understanding and collaboration, we help build a community where Deaf and hearing individuals can connect, participate, and thrive together.
What Guides Our Work
Everything we do is shaped by the belief that communication access is essential to belonging. We approach our work with respect, cultural awareness, and a commitment to collaboration-ensuring our programs reflect real community needs and lived experiences.
Discover How We Can Help
Hands That Speak Volumes offers programs, training, and support designed to promote access and to improve inclusion for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals. Whether you're looking to learn ASL, build accessibility in your community, or bring inclusive programs to your organization, we have services tailored to meet your needs.