Marilyn Call has been an advocate and mentor for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, late deafened, and for individuals with multiple disabilities for many years. Her tireless efforts have encouraged development of new and innovative programs and services that build independence and promote happy, healthy living.
Prior to her employment with the Division of Services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH), Marilyn started the Legislative Coalition for People with Disabilities. She was instrumental in educating legislators about the benefits of programs that serve individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing, and alternatively, has been active in educating the deaf and hard of hearing communities about legislation currently underway that would impact them the most. She empowered individuals with hearing loss to step outside their comfort zone and contact their legislators in order to encourage the creation and passing of laws that would enhance programs and services that affect their lives.
In her role as Director of the Sanderson center for DSDHH, Marilyn assists individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing in applying for employment opportunities. She has supported the creation of various programs that include outreach and technology, interpreter mentoring and training, and development of free classes related to hearing loss. She supported the development and expansion of a demonstration lab loaner bank which allows deaf and hard of hearing individuals to try various assistive technologies before they purchase it. She also fought for funding to hire mental health counselors and case managers fluent in sign language.
Marilyn has been an excellent role model and has been described as caring, hard working, and an intelligent administrator who supports others to do great things. Her professionalism has earned the respect of many and we are pleased to present her with the Hamilton Relay 2011 Better Hearing and Speech Month Recognition Award.
This leadership recognition has been brought to you by Hamilton Relay.
About Hamilton Relay
Hamilton Relay offers a variety of services including Telecommunications Relay Services, Captioned Telephone and Internet Relay services. Hamilton provides Telecommunications Relay and/or Captioned Telephone services to 18 states, the District of Columbia, the Island of Saipan and the Virgin Islands. More information is available at hamiltonrelay.com.