Deaf Dome Teen Peer Support Chat

Deaf Dome, an Iowa-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (see our beginner website at www.deafdome.org - new website coming soon!) will be providing an opportunity for DHH (d/Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, Deaf Plus) t(w)eens ages 12-15 who are in mainstream programs around Iowa to connect to peers via Zoom.

We know from research that peer connections with others who "get" their experiences are a critical component to brain development; it's also common for DHH kids who are mainstreamed to be the only DHH student in their area/program. This one-hour chat will be supervised primarily by Telina Quintana and Holly Shannon (see bios below) but will be participant-led.

We ask for contact information/addresses solely for safety reasons; if a participant is seen on camera to be in any kind of danger, we want to know how to reach out to parents/guardians.

There is one form we ask be filled out: one rights/responsibilities list for participants, and one expectation list for parents. We have tried to keep it as simple as possible! Because we are using Givebutter, this is formatted as tickets - but there is no cost, and you do NOT need to donate anything.

This chat will be on the SECOND AND FOURTH Sundays from 5:00-6:00 PM. Zoom link will be sent after registration.

Registration closes 2 hours before each session. You only need to register once to participate.

Questions: Email PeerSupport@deafdome.org

Our moderators:

Meet Telina McKenna-Quintana (she/her)

Telina is a Deaf Iowa native who grew up attending public schools (mainstream). She didn’t discover her Deaf identity until college - a common experience for many! Telina has actively advocated for Deaf people through work and volunteer service, walking next to people seeking resources and support. Telina has roles not only with Deaf Dome but also Iowa Association of the Deaf and Iowa Commission on Deaf Services. These allow her to connect with and learn from diverse DHH and hearing people around the state. Telina’s family enjoys watching movies and going on trips together.

Meet Holly Shannon (she/her)
Holly is a hearing ally who is excited to moderate our peer support group! For more than 15 years, she has worked as an ASL interpreter and supported the Deaf community as a volunteer and advocate. As a parent herself, Holly deeply understands the importance of peer connection and is committed to facilitating a welcoming space for you to share and grow together.

Deaf Teen Peer Support Chat

By Deaf Dome

Deaf Teen Peer Support Chat