In concert with our theme “The Power of Possible” this year’s annual Gala and auction will honor our dedicated staff. Our staff have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure that our organization continues to operate at full capacity. To ensure everyone can participate, we will hold a virtual, professionally-produced Deaf-friendly event that will be streamed on May 11, 2022 at 7 pm (preview at 6:45). 

We are excited, again, to partner with Bus Door Films, a Deaf-owned creative production and filmmaking business. Interpreting and open captioning will be provided. Last year, our 50th Anniversary Celebration was viewed by over 1,000 individuals on YouTube and over 2000 individuals on Facebook. Knowing in many cases individuals gathered in small groups, I can share with confidence that this is our most widely attended event in TLC’s history. 

To ensure the widest participation, our virtual event will be available at no charge to participants. To support our mission, TLC will raise funds for the event through sponsorships, donations, and an online/text fundraiser during the event as well as an online auction. We will also offer “door” prize incentives for those who register in advance for the event. We welcome donations of gift cards and other items.

On an annual basis TLC provides benefits to 2,000 deaf and hard of hearing individuals and over 150 organizations in Massachusetts and beyond. We provide services through programs like ASL classes, training and consultation, interpreting services, family support, behavioral health, and our onsite audiology clinic. We will look ahead to the future, sharing about our Strategic Plan to Advance Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Our Gala will spotlight the hard work accomplished by TLC’s 400 staff over the past two years. We will also feature special entertainment, and the winners of this year’s Warren Schwab Memorial Award and the Alumni Association Award. The event will be in American Sign Language with interpreting services.