Deaf Organizations Fund Awards $100K to Four Innovative Deaf Community Nonprofits
TL;DR
DOF's grants provide deaf-centric organizations with $100K to enhance educational resources, break healthcare barriers, and empower DeafBlind youth.
DOF selects 4 organizations for unrestricted grants to support Deaf communities through 2025, with a community-led grant review committee shaping the decision-making process.
DOF's impact grants ignite meaningful change by supporting deaf-centric organizations to improve accessibility, education, and healthcare, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
DOF's trust-based grantmaking approach and focus on expanding resources beyond funding demonstrate a commitment to fostering positive change within Deaf communities.
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The Deaf Organizations Fund (DOF) has announced its 2025 grantees, awarding $100,000 in unrestricted grants to four organizations dedicated to serving deaf communities across the United States. The selected organizations—Atomic Hands, Deaf Defy, Inc., DEAFinitely, Inc., and The Black Deaf Project—will use the funding to support critical initiatives addressing educational resources, healthcare access, and opportunities for DeafBlind youth.
In its second Impact Grant cycle, DOF received a record 84 applications, demonstrating significant interest and need within deaf-centric organizations. The grant selection process utilized a participatory approach, with a community-led review committee playing a crucial role in evaluating and recommending recipients.
Executive Director Sasha Ponappa emphasized the organization's trust-based grantmaking approach, highlighting the importance of providing flexible funding that allows organizations to direct resources where they are most needed. This strategy recognizes the unique challenges and priorities within deaf communities.
Beyond financial support, DOF is expanding its resources to include grantee coaching, technical assistance, and the development of an accessible training program for deaf organization leaders. The fund also aims to advocate for disability justice within the philanthropic sector.
Since its establishment in 2021, DOF has distributed nearly $500,000 among 27 deaf-centric organizations, demonstrating a significant commitment to supporting and empowering deaf communities nationwide. The latest grant cycle continues this mission by providing critical funding to organizations working to break down barriers and create meaningful opportunities.
Curated from News Direct
