Shreveport / Louisiana / United States
The Betty and Leonard Phillips Deaf Action Center is a private non-profit, IRS 501 ( c ) ( 3 ), community service organization as established in its bylaws -- serving approximately 18, 000 Deaf, Hard of hearing, multi-handicapped deaf. Established in 1982, the Center provides comprehensive services through one central agency to "bridge the gap" between the hearing and deaf worlds. Since its inception, the Center has made every effort to identify those deaf individuals who have specific needs and to provide adequate services for them. In addition to actively working with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community the Center strives to heighten public awareness as to the specific needs of this group within Louisiana. The Center continuously evaluates itself and the needs of the Community and designs its programs according to the evaluation results. The Deaf Action Center was established in 1982 after a visit by the National Theatre of the Deaf to Shreveport. Sandi and Jeffery Kallenberg were involved with the visit through their connection with the Shreveport Regional Arts Council. The Kallenbergs, Mrs. Kallenbergs parents, Betty and Leonard Phillips, brother, Fred Phillips, and their families became interested in what services were available for the deaf residents in the area. Through their efforts a professional in the field of deafness was hired and the Deaf Action Center was established. The Centers name was changed in 1985 in honor of its benefactors, Betty Phillips and her late husband, Leonard W. Phillips, who, along with their families, provided the seed money to establish the Center. What was once run from a borrowed office in a local oil company is now housed in a 4, 550 sq ft. facility -- designed and equipped for the special communication needs of this population. The one staff member has grown to seven full-time staff positions with part-time and volunteer services, as well. The Betty and Leonard Phillips Deaf Action Center promotes the independence of the deaf, the hard of hearing and the multi-handicapped deaf in Louisiana. The Center has made a tremendous efforts to provide services, support, and advocacy for this population by providing education to the general population, instructing and directing individuals interested in the field of deafness and encouraging leadership among members of Deaf Community. It is to this end, the Center eliminates any and all barriers and, in fact, serves as a beacon and source of unity for all persons affected and touched by hearing loss.
