Frequently Asked Questions

Submit your request through our online request form. A checklist, called the Interpreting and Communication Needs Checklist, is provided to help you gather the information you will need. Please include event details such as date, time, location, and type of event so we can match the appropriate interpreters to your needs.

As soon as possible. The more advance notice you provide, the better we can ensure that interpreters with the appropriate skills and experience are available for your event. Advance scheduling allows for optimal coordination, especially for complex, multi-day, or high-profile events.

You will be asked for key event details, including:

• Date(s), time(s), and location of the event
• Type of event (for example, meeting, conference, training, or performance)
• Whether the event is in person or virtual
• Number of Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing participants
• Communication preferences (for example, Visual ASL, Tactile ASL, or Protactile Language)
• Any additional access needs (for example, CART, assistive listening devices, or a Co-Navigator)

Visual ASL

Communication in standard American Sign Language for sighted individuals.

Tactile ASL

A form of ASL used by DeafBlind individuals through touch.

Protactile Language

A distinct language developed by and for the DeafBlind community. It uses touch-based communication to convey linguistic, spatial, and environmental information directly through physical contact, allowing for full and autonomous participation in shared environments.

Co-Navigators

Trained professionals who provide human guide and environmental information to DeafBlind individuals, including safe mobility assistance, visual and environmental description, and support for physical orientation. Co-Navigators do not interpret language; they facilitate access to spaces and experiences through tactile and situational guidance.

Communicate directly with the DeafBlind participant(s) whenever possible. Each person’s access needs are unique, depending on their communication preferences, residual vision or hearing, and familiarity with interpreters or Co-Navigators. If you are unsure, our coordination team can help determine the most effective communication and support services for each individual.

Our coordination team reviews the details and contacts you if more information is needed. We then schedule qualified interpreters or Co-Navigators and confirm the arrangements. You’ll receive a confirmation email listing the assigned professionals and any additional coordination details.

If event details change (such as time, location, or number of participants), please notify us as soon as possible. Changes may affect interpreter or Co-Navigator availability, and prompt updates help ensure uninterrupted access. See our cancellation policy.

Yes. In addition to interpreters, we can coordinate Co-Navigators (CNs), formerly called Support Service Providers (SSPs), as well as tactile or Protactile communication access as needed. Co-Navigators support safe and effective mobility, spatial orientation, and access to visual and environmental cues, promoting full participation and autonomy.

No. Unfortunately, there are currently no governmental resources that provide free access. Service costs depend on the duration, type, and complexity of the assignment. Please contact us for rate information or to discuss available funding options. See also our rates policy.

Many organizations promote accessibility, cultural understanding, and education within the Deaf and DeafBlind communities, including:

• National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
• Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
• Helen Keller National Center (HKNC)
• DeafBlind Interpreting National Training and Resource Center (DBI-NTRC)
• National Center on Deaf-Blindness (state DeafBlind projects)
• State and local Deaf or DeafBlind advocacy organizations

Our coordination team can also provide referrals to local and national resources.