Nebraska Relay, along with Nebraska Specialized Telecommunications Equipment Program (NSTEP) and the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH), joined 93.7 The Ticket’s Business Builders program to spotlight the essential communication services available to Nebraskans who are deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have difficulty speaking. The broadcast, held during National Speech-Language-Hearing Month to raise awareness about accessible communication resources across the state.
Click here to listen to or watch the full episode of Business Builders.
During the program, Nebraska Relay outreach coordinator Peggy Ward emphasized the importance of equal access to telecommunications, noting that Nebraska Relay provides free, confidential, 24/7 relay services for individuals who have difficulty hearing or speaking on the phone.
Peggy also shared her personal experience as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), describing how relay services transformed her family’s ability to communicate independently. Before Relay service existed, her parents could not make essential calls — including emergency calls — without assistance.
Brett Bode, Program Manager for NSTEP, discussed the state’s financial assistance program that provides up to $1,000 toward specialized telecommunications equipment. This includes amplified phones, captioned telephones, speech-generating devices, alerting systems and wireless technology compatible with hearing aids. “The whole point of our program is to provide financial assistance so individuals can access the equipment that meets their needs best,” Brett shared.
Michael Brummer, NCDHH’s Education, Youth & Family Liaison, shared how the Commission’s work is centered on connection—linking Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Nebraskans with the resources, information and support they need to thrive. Through education, outreach and partnerships across the state, NCDHH serves as a bridge between community members and programs that promote communication access. Michael explained how he helps individuals and families learn about available resources and navigate programs such as Nebraska Relay and NSTEP, while also advocating for greater equity in healthcare, employment, education, and public services. By connecting people with the right tools and information, NCDHH helps ensure Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Nebraskans can participate fully in their communities and everyday lives.
The broadcast also highlighted the role of Hamilton Relay, Nebraska’s contracted relay service provider, which delivers a range of solutions including TTY, Captioned Telephone (CapTel®), Speech-to-Speech, Hearing Carry Over and Spanish Relay services.
“Awareness is key,” Peggy noted. “Many people don’t realize these services exist or that they’re available at no cost. Our goal is to ensure every Nebraskan has equal access to communication.”
About Nebraska Relay
Nebraska Relay provides free, 24/7 telecommunications relay services that enable individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind or have difficulty speaking to communicate over the phone. All relay calls are confidential and facilitated by trained Communication Assistants. Nebraska Relay is overseen by the Nebraska Public Service Commission and delivered by Hamilton Relay.
About NSTEP
The Nebraska Specialized Telecommunications Equipment Program (NSTEP) provides financial assistance to qualified Nebraskans for the purchase of specialized telecommunications equipment. The program is administered by the Nebraska Public Service Commission.
About NCDHH
The Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) is a proactive state agency committed to improving the quality of life for Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Nebraskans. We provide advocacy, oversight and information to advance communication access and strengthen equity across all sectors of society.