PATCH Grant

Arkansas Hands & Voices (ARH&V) supports families of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) across Arkansas through family-centered services, advocacy, and community connection. ARH&V offers one-on-one family support, educational advocacy training, professional and family learning opportunities, and statewide family events.

Signature programs include Guide By Your Side (GBYS), which connects families new to hearing loss with trained parent mentors, and ASTra, which focuses on educational advocacy and school transitions. Through events and partnerships, ARH&V helps families build confidence, connect with others, and access the resources they need to support their children’s success.

ARH&V hosts an annual family event that brings together children who are D/HH, their families, professionals, and community partners from across the state. In April 2026, the event will be held at the Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs, Arkansas, offering a fun, educational environment that encourages connection and shared experiences.

The event provides families with time to network, learn from one another, and interact with professionals and partner organizations that support children who are D/HH. Designated time for group lunch and facilitated conversations helps strengthen community connections and reduce barriers to participation. Admission costs are covered, and grant funding is used to provide meals to families to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

Through these programs and events, ARH&V aims to strengthen family confidence, promote advocacy, and increase awareness of available resources and services. By fostering collaboration between families and professionals, ARH&V supports the social, emotional, educational, and communication success of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing throughout Arkansas.