Sight & Sound Insights

Help America Hear Denver Day of Giving Hearing Aid Mission

2011-10-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

Media Contacts:
Mitchel Shapiro Christopher Davies
Tel.631-366-3461 Tel. 303 664-5700
Email: info@foundationforsightandsound.org Email: davies@winecountrynetwork.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HELP AMERICA HEAR PROGRAM PLANS SECOND DENVER HEARING AID MISSION
Support from The Denver International Wine Festival will benefit Denver area residents on November 2, 2011.

Denver, CO, October 11, 2011 –On Wednesday November 2, 2011 the Foundation For Sight & Sound’s Help America Hear Program will be fitting 15 Denver area residents with hearing aids. This Hearing Aid Mission will take place at the Lakewood Hearing & Speech Center, 3110 S Wadsworth Blvd, Suite #107, Lakewood, CO 80227 at 9:30 am.

Randall D. Smith, a hearing instruments specialist, is assisting Mitchell Shapiro and Dave Carr, co-founders of the Help America Hear Program in fitting the recipients. For more info about the Foundation for Sight and Sound visit: www.foundationforsightandsound.org

The Foundation For Sight and Sound, a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization and their Help America Hear Program provides hearing aids to men, women and children with a moderate to profound hearing loss, that lack the financial resources to obtain them on their own.

The Help America Hear Program was created in January 2009 and has since fitted over 190 people nationwide with high quality Resound hearing aids. With the minimum cost of a hearing aid averaging $2,000, many individuals are unable to afford this necessary tool for improving their quality of life.

The 2011 Denver International Wine Festival will donate a portion of ticket sales and 100% of the proceeds of all silent and live auctions to the Foundation for Sight and Sound and their Help America Hear Program. This not-for-profit has pledged to use these funds to directly help individuals in Denver, Colorado.

Christopher Davies, CEO of Wine Country Network, Inc., the producers of The Denver International Wine Festival said, "We are excited to support The Help America Hear Program for the second year in a row... It's quite fulfilling to see that local residents will receive a direct benefit from our wine festival " Randall D. Smith of Lakewood Hearing & Speech Center said, “We know that when hearing becomes difficult it's often easier to stay at home and avoid family and friends. When you stay at home, you can become isolated and alone. We are reaching out to help.”
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION FOR SIGHT & SOUND
The Foundation for Sight & Sound‘s mission is to enhance the quality of life for men women and children with vision and/or hearing challenges.

The Foundation for Sight and Sound has developed the Help America Hear Program to provide hearing aids for men, women and children with limited financial resources.

In most states, Medicare and Medicaid do not cover these costs and many insurance providers do not offer full medical coverage.

The manufacturer suggested retail cost averages from $2,000 to $4,000 per hearing aid. With this program, each person receives: two hearing aids, custom ear molds and one year limited service.

Help America Hear is sponsored by the generosity of hearing health care providers, corporate and private donors, and manufacturers.
www.foundationforsightandsound.org

ABOUT THE DENVER INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL
The Denver International Wine Festival and Competition are produced by Wine Country Network, Inc. Established in 2005, the annual Denver International Wine Festival is the premier wine and culinary festival in the Rocky Mountains. The festival showcases premium wines from more than 18 countries, together with a signature chef’s food and wine competition, called the Paisine/Taste of Elegance that has been fondly referred to as “Iron Chef™ meets wine.

Main contacts:
Christopher J. Davies & Darcy R. Davies

Taste of Elegance Chefs Food & Wine Competition event info webpage:
http://www.denverwinefest.com/taste_of_elegance.html

2011 Denver International Wine Festival Major Sponsors
-Key Private Bank (presenting sponsor)
-Thermador Kitchen Appliances
-Anheuser-Busch Belgium Beers (Stella Artois, Hoegaarden and Leffe)
-Mountain High Appliance
-Red Bird Farms
-The Broadmoor
-The Omni Interlocken Resort
-Outdoor Kitchen
-The Big Green Egg
-Wisconsin Cheese
-Cooper Mountain

The 2011 Denver International Wine Festival will be held November 2 to 5, 2011.
Visit: Denverwinefest.com

What's Your Excuse?

2011-08-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

What’s Your Excuse?

It's true, believe it or not! For many, the tendency to procrastinate is overwhelming. Why? Sometimes it’s lack of motivation, depression, laziness, fear of making mistakes or blaming someone or something for why we can't move forward. Many individuals find reasons to put blame on circumstances or people, instead of taking responsibility for the issue at hand. Here is an example. If something goes wrong while using a computer, it becomes the computers fault, when in reality, it's the user who makes the mistake most of the time but refuses to take responsibility or to take the time to investigate what the problem may have been. Typically, the user is in control of all actions. The end result is frustration and quitting. This scenario is relevant to most situations.. Allowing oneself to be victimized by circumstances rather than taking control, limits the individual to the land of excuses.

The first step in overcoming most obstacles is changing our mindset to one that is positive. Extracting all negative thoughts, believing in yourself, taking the approach of CAN DO rather than can’t do. Let’s face it folks, people with or without disabiliteies have a hard time getting started! It’s like a baby taking it’s first step, putting one foot in front of the other, the baby may fall and cry, but gets back up and does it all over again. Challenge yourself to take small steps, allow yourself to work through the task both mentally and physically. The key is to know your abilities and what you are truly capable of.

Sometimes we take things in life for granted, expecting something or someone to take care of it. Ask yourself, what is it that you would like to accomplish today? What steps will you take to achieve the goal? Put it down on paper, it helps make the goal real. Set a time line, challenge yourself. Do & say, I will accomplish the task at hand. I guarantee you will find it worthwhile. Focus on what is, rather then what isn’t. Blank out all the internal chatter or mental garbage which blocks out all the good ideas. A clear vision allows a person to move forward.

Ok, so it sounds easy on paper. It takes a drive within yourself, a strong desire to feel a sense of accomplishment, the determination to be all you can be and the expectation of a world without limits. It’s important to remember you can do anything if you put your mind to it. Ok,yes, perhaps there are limitations at times, but ask yourself what it is you’d like to do and set a plan of action to and get around the limitations. Find the tools necessary to tackle the project. Get started on it and don't make excuses. If your excuse is, I have a disability and I'm not independent, then it’s a simple question back to you. What are you doing about it? Its about choices. Do you have abilities or a disability!

Finally, I know many accomplished people who just happen to have a disability. They've set their eye on a goal, pushed themselves to the limit and then went one step beyond! The choice is yours. It all starts with you! Find a way, Don’t Make Excuses!

Respectfully submitted
Mitchel Shapiro

Help America Hear Day of Giving Montefiore Hearing Aid Mission

2011-08-03T04:56:00.000-07:00

Sights & Sounds

Help America Hear Day of Giving Montefiore Hearing Aid Mission

On Saturday, July 23, 2011 the Foundation for Sight and Sound's Help America Hear program held it’s 3rd “Day of Giving” Hearing Aid Mission at Montefiore Hospital, Bonx NY. This year 12 men, women & children were recipients of two hearing aids each.

From Amanda, age 7, to a young college student and not to forget a few elderly folks who also choose to participate more independently in society. Amanda has progressed in her school wrork and socially since receiving her first hearing aid in last year’s mission. Courteney will be able to function better in college , not just in hearing and comprehending the professors, but with interaction with fellow students.

It’s truly an amazing feeling when you can provide someone with the ability to hear the sounds which surround all of us each day. Many of our recipients have trouble talking on the phone and have to raise the volume of their TV’s and radio’s. Having a conversation can be difficult as the person speaking usually talks louder which comes across to the hard of hearing person as being angry. Each individual at our Day of Giving has expressed their unwavering gratitude upon receiving their new hearing aids. To many of these individuals there is a true understanding of the value of this gift.

The mission was made possible in part from grants received from the Bronx Rotary Club, CVS and Hearing Loss Association of America, Manhatten Chapter. It’s because of organizations like these, we are able to provide the " Gift of Sound” to many people who lack the financial resources to obtain hearing aids on their own.

The mission was spearheaded by Help America Hear Co-founder Dave Carr, a third generation hearing instruments specialist, with assistance from
Laura Tocci, Au.D. Director of Audiology, Speech, and Voice at Montefiore Hospital and the staff of McGuires Hearing & Audiolgical services. The Staff included Mike Taveniere, Frieda Toback, Joanna Coleman, Mary Bohr, Michael Burke and last but not least Nikol Leitner from Montefiore.

Once again, several members of the Bronx Rotary were there to lend support and speak with the hearing aid recipients. The delegation was lead by Miguel Santiago, a big supporter of the Help America Hear Program. Bronx Rotary President Debby Appel, Rotarians Ed Hicks & Ann Ward were on hand to witness the process.

Also in attendance was Eric Charland, Regional Sales Manager for our hearing aid manufactuerer GN ReSound. This is Eric’s first Help America Hear “Day of Giving” Mission and here is what he has to say; “I had the pleasure of being at the most recent Help America Hear mission at Montefiore Hospital on July 23rd. It was an amazing experience. One of the favorite parts about my job is being able to help people that have hearing loss reconnect to their world. To be able to do this for people who are also less fortunate and cannot afford hearing aids makes it much more special. I admire what Mitch and Foundation for Sight and Sound do for these people and look forward to continuing to support this amazing program” –

Of course we can’t leave out the folks at Foundation For Sight & Sound who help make things possible, Mitch, Vivian, volunteers Donna (who took pictures), Leslie & our video producer and videographer, Joani & Dennis.

Yes, a lot of people involved, all giving up their day to provide their services to help people who fall through the cracks and can’t afford a device which can give them a better quality of life. ... you give what you can to make the world a better place.

Respectfully submitted

Mitchel Shapiro

Perspective from a Volunteer

2011-07-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

I would like to give you my perspective as a volunteer for the Foundation For Sight and Sound on my being able to participate in the Hearing Mission at Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, N.Y. on Saturday, July 23, 2011. It was one of the most heart warming experiences I have ever had. I feel blessed to be part of the Foundation For Sight and Sound and what it stands for. I would like to share a few stories with you that still bring tears to my eyes. One is from college student who told me he was teased most of his life because of his hearing limitations. The other is from a gentleman who told me, he struggled to come into this country and raise his two children. He is a religious person who prays to G-d every day and for years he has been asking G-d to send him a messenger to give him back his hearing. He said to me, you see that man over there, pointing to you, he is the messanger from G-d I have been waiting for. Then Amanda, a little girl who was born with an 80 percent hearing loss who received a hearing aid for one ear last year from the FSS and received a hearing aid for other ear on Saturday. I have developed a bond with these individuals and they will stay in my heart forever.
Leslie Smouha

Volunteering

2011-07-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

Sights & Sounds

Volunteering is a form of community service and can be best described as “Paying it forward” with your time, services or financially. It is an essential part of our daily lives.

In the earlier centuries, women were the crux of the volunteer forces. In the past a women’s role was to take care of the household. With many there was a lot of downtime. There was an urgency for volunteers. There were the World Wars, disasters and simply the sick and poor who had nothing or anyone to help them. At that same time period it was the man’s role to support the household financially. When the wars broke out, men volunteered for the armed forces to help fight for freedom.

There are many ways a person can get involved. Think about our volunteer fire departments, not only do the men and women help put out fires they answer calls for many other emergencies especially their ambulance services. The role they play in the community is vital and saves lives while they put their lives in danger many times. Why does someone become a volunteer for their local fire department? It gives a person an s sense of community spirit, pride to be a part of a group of other caring individuals and gratification to know they have helped someone.

Our Armed forces depend on volunteers to help keep our country safe and to provide safety and freedom the world over. Of course being a volunteer can provide a myriad of benefits. When you become part of the Armed forces a person gains skills and training as well as getting a strong education and travel.

There are so many civic organizations around the country and the world. Groups such as Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, elks & Moose Lodges, VFW Halls SERTOMA and many others. Civic organizations were built upon the premise of helping humankind. Like any organization there is the commonality of camaraderie and gratification of doing service in the community.

Not for Profit organizations are the core where most people volunteer their time and resources. Charitable organizations provide financial assistance, research, or services of enormous magnitude. Once again, people get involved for a variety of reasons sometimes simply to fill a void in their own lives as they feel there is enough time on their hands and they can help others less fortunate. Sometimes it’s a person who has been a recipient of help from an organization or individual and that person also chooses to “pay it forward” to someone else.

Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes. They get involved in a special event, collecting food or money. They participate in an event to help facilitate the many chores which helps the event run smoothly.. A volunteer has many skills and utilize their abilities to make a difference to the organization they become involved in.

Paying it forward simply means when it’s given you give it to someone else rather then give something back to the source it came from. There is nothing wrong with paying it back; it’s rather nice to just pass along the goodness to another needy person.

It doesn’t’ matter if a person is differently abled or not. It’s a sense of accomplishment especially when you are involved in a cause that you are passionate about. Perhaps it may be an organization which provides a service you benefitted from or does research to find a cure for a disease you or someone you know is afflicted by. Whatever the case, just do it for the reason that is most meaningful to you. It’s not about what you receive, but rather what everyone gains as a whole. Volunteering is about giving, if you give of yourself with no expectations the returns will come on their own.

Get involved today, Make a difference to someone else. do something. It’s a great way to meet people and build relationships with others who care!

Respectfully submitted

Mitchel Shapiro

Let Freedom Ring!

2011-07-07T05:40:00.000-07:00

Sights & Sounds

Let Freedom Ring

Everyone has their own interpretation of what freedom means. It's probably a fair assumption that most people think of freedom as the ability to live independently with minimal restrictions on their lifestyle. Everything within reason of course.

When it comes to someone with a disability, especially, but not limited to, a person who is vision and hearing challenged, it becomes life altering. Freedom of movement becomes one of the most challenging for someone who is visually challenged or blind. I have met several individuals who harbor anger within. This anger is expressed through body language, tone of voice and their overall demeanor. Freedom of expression is a great tool, but in my opinion, a positive outlook renders a more positive outcome in life.

Freedom is earned, it is not an entitlement. Our forefathers were forced to fight to earn the freedom we all enjoy today. However, we sometimes need to be advocates for ourselves first before we can be advocates for others, the goal being the betterment of humanity. The Americans with Disabilities Act came about as the result of the hard work and ‘fighting spirit’ to provide accessibility & equality for the “Differently Abled” community. The ADA has provided a means of accessibility which allows for a better mode of freedom with less restrictions. This friends is what Freedom is all about. Working hard for the positive outcome which allows each and every person the same rights.

So, back to mobility. As a visually challenged person, the freedom to move about independently can be a difficult subject. A blind person is simply someone who cannot see and has a physical restriction to moving about freely without the possibility of injuring oneself. A person with limited vision, unless trained to use a ‘white cane’ or guide dog, has difficulty walking the sidewalks or country roads without fear of the many obstacles along the way.

I cannot tell a person what to do, but I do have a few simple suggestions. If you are reading this and have mobility issues, and if you really want to get out there, find the tools which work best for you. Make friends or reach out to family for support. Get over your fear of asking for help, it is not a sign of weakness but rather showing the desire and determination to lead a full life like anyone else. Reach out to one of the many assistance programs that can help teach you to be more independent. Give yourself permission to have the freedom to do what you’d like to do in life. Don’t hold back! Like Nike’s commercial said…. “Just Do it!”

Let Freedom Ring!

Respectfully submitted

Mitchel Shapiro

*** The articles on this blog do not always represent the the the mission or purpose of hte Fsoundation for Sight & Sound but rather a viewpoint of hte founder Mitch Shapiro.

What a Month!

2011-07-06T04:48:00.000-07:00

Sights & Sounds……..

It’s been a whirlwind of a month, I must say. Starting the first week of June with a week in Colorado. Here's what happened:

The Foundation For Sight & Sound held it’s first Brewmaster Golf Classic on June 6th with 30 happy golfers. The event was full of fun, along with, of course …..golf, lunch, and a nice BBQ dinner. A heartfelt thank you to Ken Kelly who helped put this event together. Also, a very special thank you to the many volunteers who helped make the day a great one!

Tuesday was the Taste of Elegance Beer & Food Pairing Competition. 100% of the auction proceeds went directly to benefit the foundation. It was a well attended event and of course we were delighted to to have the foundation be a part of it. You can see the pictures by going to our photo gallery.

The Day of Giving Hearing Aid Mission is a beautiful illustration of how the foundations funds are utilized. I’m sure if you are reading the blog, you read the last post about this!

Finally, the trip ended with a 20 minute presentation to the Arapaho SERTOMA group where an accounting of the weeks activities were discussed. Donnalee told an emotional story about Shirley Hicks who was a reciepient of 2 hearing aids. I must admit I had some tears in my eyes, as did at least 6 other grown men. Donnalee was proud to participate in our first Pueblo mission and was responsible for the photography.

At the end of our trip, we took the Red Eye home with very little sleep, almost not getting on the plane as it was a full flight. Thanks to Jet Blue, they worked their magic and got us on as scheduled and got us home safely. A special thank you to Michael Arthurs who was able to save the foundation money by donating the two round trip tickets. I was back to work by 10am but fell asleep at the computer.

Saturday morning it was up early to Rappell down a 12 story building to raise money for the Foundation For Sight & Sound. I was one of the first people to go Over the Edge. But as luck would have it, I got hung up around the 4th floor (just felt like hanging out) as my brake locked. I had trouble loosening it but after 10 minutes I was finally able to lower myself. Aww, what the heck, it was no big deal, nothing to panic about.

Well, the following week was yet another big challenge as I rode my tandem bike 100 miles. Donnalee was at the helm navigating and steering the bike to it’s final destination… beautiful Montauk! I must tell you though, that when we got to the 50 mile checkpoint, Donna was tired and said that she wasn't sure she would make it the next 50 miles. So being the nice guy that I am, I gave her a choice to continue or turn back….chuckle. It took us 11 ½ hours total with 10 hours actual riding. Riding a tandem bike is a bit slower due to more weight and drag. I was so jealous of the folks who did it in half the time, but honestly, another new accomplishment. So what should I do next? Skydiving?

This past week I flew back to Colorado to give an inspiring motivational presentation to the Colorado Hearing Society. I guess they did actually enjoy it since they laughed at my corny jokes and payed attention to my messages. Interestingly enough, the interactive audience participation with blindfolds and earplugs are always a big hit and never fails at driveing a good many points home. The presentation was almost 2 hours and was probably one of my better presentations.

I’m now back to work on the Foundation For Sight & Sound’s many exciting projects including our upcoming Day of Giving at Montefiore Hospital in the Bronx on July 23, our 2nd annual Golf Classic at Sandspoint and too finish off the summer, it's The Family & Friends Summer End Bash at the Crest Hollow CC. I do hope I'll see you at one of these events.

The Help America Hear Program continues to fit more people and there are more inquires for applications. Since January 2009 we have fit over 180 men, women &children with hearing aids. During this time period, there have been over 1400 requests for applications.

The Foundation depends on corporate and private donations. If you know someone who has the capacity to make a donation, please send them our way. It is appreciated more then words can express.. Please consider putting us in your year end giving plan or in your will.

More to come soon……

Respectfully submitted…….

Mitchel Shapiro

Another Person's Perspective

2011-06-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

Another Person's Perspective

this was written by Adreinne Levy who participated at the June 8th Pueblo Day of Giving in Pueblo Colorado. Overall what she has to say mirrors what i wrote lsat week. Thanks so much for this testimonial on behalf of the Foundation for Sight and sound.

Foundation for Sight and Sound Mission
June 8, 2010 Pueblo CO

This past Wednesday, June 8, 2010 was an especially gratifying and satisfying work day in my position as Consumer Outreach Audiologist. I had the opportunity to participate in the Foundation for Sight and Sound’s Mission in Pueblo, CO. The Foundation, founded in 2009 by Mitch Shapiro,, is designed to provide vision or hearing help for those in need. In Mitch’s words “the Foundation is there to assist those who fall through the cracks.” Those in need are identified by area physicians, local groups or churches. SCENTA physician Dr. (find name) and local dispenser, Roxann Murphy donated their services, time and office space. They were both honored by a Proclamation presented by Pueblo’s Mayor and a City Councilman who were also in attendance. To make the event a success, GNReSound donated the hearing aids, earmolds, and the Consumer Outreach Audiologist: me!
Although every recipient was grateful and excited to receive new hearing aids, three recipients stood out in terms of the significance of the gift of restored hearing. One recipient, a 13 year old girl, had a moderate unilateral loss with normal hearing in the other ear. Her parents spoke freely of their high expectations for her scholastically and the frustration with her varied performance in school. They mentioned her missing critical information and how hard it was for her to hear the teacher when the teacher’s back was turned toward the board and away from the class. Likewise at home there was additional tension because sometimes the girl would respond appropriately, and at other times not be aware of what was going on. When the Live 7 BTE hearing aid was turned on her face lit up and she just kept saying “I can hear better.” Prior to being referred to the Foundation, the parents were trying to figure out how to save for a hearing aid, and how long that might take them. A big difference was made in her and her family’s life: reduced stress at home; greater happiness, and more consistent performance in school are just some of the improvements she will experience with her new aid and better hearing.
The second person that stood out was a young man with severe-profound congenital familial hearing loss who was wearing 15 year old analog mini BTE aids (too weak) with yellowed earmolds. He also has the benefit of an assistance dog. It was a treat to program the SPARX aids and provide much needed gain. We conversed easily in more normal conversational tones which was an instant change from his old aids. His whole body relaxed and he sat back in his chair and smiled.
The third person was a woman with both reduced vision and reduced hearing. Her husband has reduced visual acuity as well so that makes for a trying situation. She simply wants to be able to participate in conversation with family and friends and to hear her audio books better. The Live 7 BTEs that she was fit with will allow her to do that.
The event was well organized with myself and another person fitting and fine-tuning the hearing aids. After being fit, the recipient then worked with a second volunteer to learn how to insert the hearing aids, change the battery and the usual daily maintenance tasks. Follow up visits were made for each person.
I was impressed with the dedication of all the volunteers and was proud to represent GN ReSound. I fully acknowledge our generosity in terms of the donated aids: except for the SPARSX wearer, I fit Live 7 series and that will make for very satisfied recipients !

It's All About People!

2011-06-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, June 8, 2011, Roxann Murphy of Southern Colorado’s Comprehensive Hearing Care. Hosted a Day of Giving for the Help America Hear Program in Pueblo Colorado. The hearing aid mission provided 12 individuals with two hearing aids each.

Assisting Roxann were Adriane Levy, GN ReSound, Eric Koval, Beltone Hearing Aid Center, Mike Trujillo, Hearing Aid Technology Center of Pueblo and Bob Blake, Affordable Hearing Care of Pueblo These Hearing Health care Professionals volunteered their time and expertise to assure that these 12 individuals were fitted properly with their new hearing aids. “It’s a day like today that makes life worthwhile,” says Roxann Murphy. I enjoy helping people.

One of the recipients, Ms Hicks was talking with Eric while he was fitting her with the hearing aids. She told Eric that she tried to pay for them but they were too expensive. Then when the hearing aides were fitted in her ears, she said, “I’m going to cry. I can’t believe I’m getting my hearing aides.”

The youngest person fitted was a 13 year old girl whose mother said, “We spent some time trying to figure a way to pay for the hearing aids over a 6 month period but we realized our budget just could not accommodate such an expense. We are always helping other people, it’s what we do in our church and we were starting to wonder if there was any way that we would ever get some help. We received a phone call that the Foundation for Sight & Sound was able to help provide hearing aids through their Help America Hear Program. We’re so grateful for this program.”

Roxann Murphy spent several month identifying, testing and preparing materials to make the Day of Giving a reality. Countless hours are spent preparing for such an event like this.

What makes doing a Day of Giving a success is the synergy created by partnerships such as with our manufacturer GN ReSound. The company donates as well as helped with reduced costs of the product for the program.

Also of great importance is the collaboration with Dr. Robert Mclean who is an ENT specialist and his staff of audiologists who were instrumental in the testing of the applicants. “It is important for all areas of the hearing healthcare profession to work together as a single unit for the better good of humankind” says Dave Carr. Dave is the co-founder of the Help America Hear Program and a third generation hearing instruments specialist

The Help America Hear Program provides high quality hearing aids to men, women & children who lack the financial capacity to obtain them on their own.

If you or someone you know is interested in hosting a Day of Giving in your community contact the Foundation for Sight & Sound at 631-366-3461 or email Mitchel Shapiro at info@foundationforsightandsound.org

Watch our blog for more on our work in the community including updates, interesting facts, motivation and more.
Respectfully,

Mitch Shapiro

HELP AMERICA HEAR PROGRAM PLANS PUEBLO COLORADO HEARING AID MISSION

2011-06-02T04:20:00.000-07:00

Media Contacts:
Mitchel Shapiro Christopher Davies
Tel.631-366-3461 Tel 303 664-5700
Email: info@foundationforsightandsound.org Email: cdavies@winecountrynetwork.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HELP AMERICA HEAR PROGRAM PLANS PUEBLO COLORADO HEARING AID MISSION
Support from The 1St Annual Brewmaster Golf Classic, The Taste of Elegance Chefs Food and Beer Pairing Competition and the Arapahoe Sertoma Club will benefit Pueblo area residents on June 8, 2011.

Denver, CO, May 26, 2010 - The Foundation For Sight and Sound, a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization and their Help America Hear Program provides hearing aids to men, women and children with hearing loss, who lack the financial capacity to obtain them on their own.

The Help America Hear Program was created in January 2009 and has since fitted over 160 men, women & children nationwide with hearing aids. With the minimum cost of a hearing aid averaging $2,000, many individuals are unable to afford this necessary tool for improving their quality of life.

All proceeds from The 2011 Brewmaster Golf Classic and 100% of proceeds from the Silent & Live auctions at the 2nd Annual Taste of Elegance Chefs Food and Beer Pairing Competition will be earmarked for The Foundation for Sight and Sound and their Help America Hear Program. This not-for-profit has pledged to use these funds to directly help individuals in Colorado.

Christopher Davies, CEO of Wine Country Network, Inc., the producers of The Denver International Wine Festival said, "We are excited to support The Help America Hear Program. Mitchel Shapiro is the organization’s President & CEO who is affected by Usher syndrome, a retinal degenerative disease that is causing him to loose both his vision and hearing, is a true inspiration. It's quite fulfilling to see that local residents will receive a direct benefit from our efforts”.

PUEBLO HEARING AID MISSION
On Wednesday June 8, 2011, The Foundation For Sight & Sound’s Help America Hear Program will be fitting 12 Pueblo area residents with hearing aids provided by GN ReSound. This Hearing Aid Mission will take place at 10:00 am at the Southern Colorado Comprehensive Hearing Care, Park West Medical Center 3676 Parker Blvd., Ste. 320. Pueblo, CO 81008.

For more information visit: www.Foundationforsightandsound.org
///

MEDIA COVERAGE OPPORTUNITIES:

We encourage media to attend the Pueblo Hear Aid Mission on Wednesday June 8, 2011, 10:00am, Southern Colorado Comprehensive Hearing Care, 3676 Parker Blvd. Ste. 320. Pueblo, CO 81008

National Contact:
Mitch Shapiro
Tel 631 366-3461 or Cell 516-297-0872
Email: info@foundationforsightandsound.org

Colorado Media Contact:
Christopher Davies
Tel 303 664-5700
Email: cdavies@winecountrynetwork.com

TV APPEARANCES & RADIO INTERVIEWS
Mr. Mitch Shapiro, President & CEO of The Foundation for Sight and Sound is a seasoned guest and motivational speaker. Please consider inviting him on your show during his visit to Pueblo & Denver. Mr. Shapiro will be in Colorado, June 4 to 9, 2011.

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION FOR SIGHT & SOUND
The Foundation for Sight & Sound turns dreams into possibilities by helping those with vision and/or hearing loss to learn, live, and work better.

The Foundation for Sight and Sound has developed the Help America Hear Program to provide hearing aids for men, women and children with limited financial resources. In most states, Medicare and Medicaid do not cover these costs and many insurance providers do not offer full medical coverage.

The manufacturer suggested retail cost averages from $2,000 to $4,000 per hearing aid. With this program, each person receives: two hearing aids, custom ear molds and one year limited service.

Help America Hear is sponsored by the generosity of hearing health care providers, corporate and private donors, and our partnering hearing aid manufacture GN ReSound. Foundationforsightandsound.org

Sight & Sound Update

2011-05-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hello

What a great start for The Foundation For Sight & Sound this year! Just like the weather so many things keep changing, especially sunshine and warm smiles on the faces of individuals through the work we do.

Through our lead program, Help America Hear, we have fit over 160 men, women & children since January 2009 with hearing aids. Please check out the testimonials and how it has changed liveswww.foundationforsightandsound.org/testimonials.html

The success of this program has been made possible by the many Hearing Health Care Professionals, our Manufacturer partner GN ReSound and of course YOU the Donor.

Your support of our Events helps us continue providing hearing aids to individuals in need. Please check out each of our upcoming events listed below or by going to wwww.foundationforsightandsound.org/events.html Perhaps you or someone you know will attend, sponsor or simply make a contribution.

I personally thank you in advance for all the support you provide.

With heartfelt thanks,
Mitchel Shapiro
President/CEO
Foundation For Sight & Sound

EVENTS

Monday, June 6th Brewmaster Golf Classic at the Omni Interlockin Resorts. Broomfield Colorado **there is still room for more golfers!

Tuesday, June 7th Taste of Elegance Beer & Chefs Competition, Omni Interlockin Resorts, Broomfield Colorado

Saturday, June 11th Over the Edge H. Lee Denison Building Hauppauge NY **Mitch is Rappelling down a 12 Story building!! Sponsor this endeavor

Monday, July 25th 2nd Annual Golf Classic Sands Point Golf Club, Sands Point NY

Thursday, August 24th Family & Friends Summer Bash Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury NY

Please forward this to your friends, family and business associates!

Sights & Sounds!

2011-05-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

I admit it’s been quite some time since I’ve put anything on the blog. There is so much to do in the fundraising world, adding to facebook, LinkedIn, doing events etc., the blog just simply slipped my mind!

The Foundation For Sight & Sound has been quite busy lately with several fundraising events as well as Hearing Aid Missions. We are scheduled to fit 12 men, women & children in Pueblo Colorado on June 8th and 20 At Montefirore Hospital in the Bronx NY . by the time we finish the missions we will have fit over 180 men, women & children with hearing aids.

The Foundation is grateful to our manufacturer GN ReSound which provides us with high quality hearing aids for the Help America Hear Program.

This is a wonderful accomplishment as the Help America Hear Program was initiated in January 2009. We receive on average 5-10 requests a day for applications. As the program has grown we introduced Tier 2 for the gross household income bracket up to $35,000.

The Foundation for Sight & Sound is also providing our first library with an Inductive Loop System which will allow hearing aid & cochlear implant users to participate in a more efficient manner during many of the seminars and workshops held at the library.

Also of interest we are part of the Usher III Research Initiative. We are helping to raise funds for this sight & hearing stealing disease.

We at the foundation are excited with all these developments and hope you will find it in your heart to participate with us in our journey to make a true difference in the quality of life for individuals with vision and/or hearing challenges..

I promise to write a bit more on the blog!

Sensitivity in Communication

2010-02-15T13:48:00.000-08:00

Sensitivity in Communication

Communication is the most important way we deal with other individuals. All species, including humans, communicate using a combination of verbal and non-verbal skills. In the best of circumstances there may be misunderstandings based upon the way a person interprets what and how something is said to them.

When interacting with people who have physical challenges the experience can become more complicated. Regardless of whether or not someone has all their senses, much of what is expressed here applies to everyone. Here are some examples that are specific to the visual and hearing challenged communities.

Let’s pretend we are giving directions to a visually challenged person. It is important to be specific about what you are saying. You will be giving them recognizable landmarks and measurable distances. We have all heard the direction “go that way”. Well, which way is that way? The visually challenged person can’t see which way you are pointing. Even something as simple as giving directions takes patience and understanding of a person’s requirements. A solution here is to identify the direction using a clock system, for example, it’s at 3 o’clock from where they are facing, and it’s a 10 minute walk. Being specific will alleviate the stress and uncomfortable feelings for both parties.

A person who is hard of hearing (HOH) presents a different set of challenges. This individual relies on hearing devices to identify sounds and words. The general misconception amongst hearing enabled persons is that someone who is hard of hearing and asks for a clarification cannot hear at all. The truth of the matter is that a person may recognize sounds but not actual words. The environment may have been noisy. When there is excess background noise and one wears a hearing aid, the noise overpowers the sounds of the person speaking. The speaker may have been mumbling or covering their face with hands blocking the passage of sounds. This is really a simple case of not being able to understand what a person is saying rather than not being able to hear.

Proper communication practices mean clear enunciation, steady pace, and simple words. Many words have the same sounds when spoken; any person can mistake one word for another that sounds alike.

Here are features of verbal and non verbal communication to be aware of:

Verbal Non Verbal (Body Language)

Tone of Voice Facial Expressions
Speed of Speech Showing Annoyance
Clearness of Speech Hand Movement
Pronunciation of Words Lip Movement
Volume of Sounds Head Shaking
Too loud/ Too Low Staring Eyes
Mumbling Diverting Eyes

Giving & Recieving

2009-12-29T04:59:00.000-08:00

This is the time of the year when all of us think about giving and receiving. Although I firmly believe it is better to give then to receive, many people are the recipients of gifts they least expect.

Giving comes in all shapes and sizes, sometimes it’s financial sometimes it is something of material or tangible goods. The most favorite time is when a child opens a wrapped present presumably left by Santa under a tree in their warm comfortable home. This isn’t always the case for many individuals. There are a tremendous number of people who are homeless, sitting in hospitals or simply just don’t have the means to purchase necessities to have a better quality of life. This group includes people who can’t afford hearing aids or eyeglasses, not to disregard people who need other items such as clothes, food, wheelchairs, walkers or even prosthesis.

When it comes to receiving gifts, I have found the best gifts I continue to receive are letters or phone calls to say thank you for making a difference in a person’s life. Giving the gift of hearing by donating hearing aids or having someone fit with a new pair of eye glasses. It’s touching & rewarding when you know a child can hear their parents or fit in socially with friends. It’s also wonderful when grandparents who have reached the golden age and are losing their hearing are able to have conversations due to a gift of hearing aids. Not to forget all men, women & children who benefit from gifts of necessities which will help them in every facet of life especially work & social activities.

As you this question, what is important to you if you were in dire straits and didn’t have the tools needed to function in society. What becomes important to you at this juncture?

Ask yourself “What have I given of myself to make the world and my home a better place”. Do the materialistic goods create a life enhancing experience to the receiver which will greatly impact the quality of life? Have you recently sorted through your old clothes or other items from your home or business and donated it to a worthy cause?

It is time to take inventory of every area of our lives, discarding items that simply collect dust. It is time to clean house!

I close this note knowing I have done my part to share, give and receive in many ways where there is someone whose life has been impacted. Bring on the New Year with new beginnings!!!

2009-10-30T05:28:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are, it’s the end of October with so much happening! On October 20th I literally went Over The Edge for charity rappelling down the side of a 6 story building in Garden City, LI, NY.

What an AWESOME experience it was. I must say I’d have loved to do it a few more times that is how much fun the experience was. There are many lessons to be learned from this experience.

Fear is top of the list. Many of us face an assortment of fears such as getting on a plane, heights, driving a car and simply just going about the day. Why is it we possess a fear of doing things? . Here is what I consider a key point to overcoming this obstacle. You must challenge yourself to do everything and anything, providing of course its safe, focus on something other then what it is your fear is. It’s also important to trust yourself permission to make it easy.

I realize it’s all words I’m speaking but once you put these simple things into action over and over it will start to work for you. as I’ve learned, Choose to Choose. What will your choice be?

Another factor is excuses. What is yours? Many people, in my opinion, make excuses why they can’t do something or anything. There is no point in listing those excuses. What I will simply say……”Get Over It!” I spend more time looking for adventure & challenge to keep busy and active as I continue my journey through life. I am by no means perfect, but I don’t make excuses for the things that will stop me from improving the quality of life! So folks, simply take action on the positive alternatives instead of hindering yourself from what will be the best outcome for much more fulfillment.

The last item I’d like to mention in this blog is Trust. It’s not always so easy in this department. When I got to the rooftop of that 6 story building, getting hooked up to a series of ropes and other safety devices, I still had to trust the instructors. The individuals who are educated and trained with rappelling, the people I had to take a risk and trust my life with. Of course our everyday lives come with a series of circumstances where we either trust someone or we don’t for its various reasons.

Once you get out of your comfort some, learn to trust yourself to make the right choices & take a few calculated risks I personally feel and have experienced being rappelled to a higher choice of outcome.

Okay folks…as Nestle Ice Tea cliché always said…”.Take the Plunge!” Rappelling off a 6 story building may not be your kind of activity, there are other ways to rappel yourself to a better quality of life by making life enhancing choices, taking risks, giving yourself permission to do whatever it is your choose to do and most of all maintain a positive attitude.

Just Blogging Cureent Thoughts

2009-07-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

Hello To YOU!

I have no idea about blogging, what it is, what to write or even why we have one!

From what I understand you write what’s on your mind, events of the moment, about life, work & relationship, even nonsense. So…..here we go!

Let’s start by talking about attitude, a positive energized attitude. We all have a tendency to focus on something negative. As it’s been said negativity produces negative results. When you take a negative situation, turning it into a solution action taking positive experience you’ll have a clearer vision with an enjoyable outcome. Trust me, it’s about putting your energy into what we have not what we don’t’ have. Sure it sounds easy, but with some effort on your part and believing in the better good of it all you’ll see the results over time.

On my recent trip to Italy & Munich Germany as difficult as it is with a vision challenge, it was a thrill to be in a place so romantic and traveled by many people. I have discovered over the years how people react and respond based on how you deal with your own challenges. It’s not that I revel in a spotlight but simply it’s great to notice how many people are willing to go out of their way to make sure you have every opportunity of enjoyment as they do.

Part of my problem is my corny sense of humor which in most cases some folks don’t know what to make of me! My personal kick is making people feel more comfortable around me with an attitude of “Hey, I’m no different then you are, just need a little support” and being a power of example that I can do anything I choose to do.

Okay, so I was not able to neither see the beautiful fresco’s on the church walls or the many splendid colors on the buildings nor take in the details of statues so what? Luckily, my significant other gladly describes things to me. You also learn to utilize your other senses like smelling the aromas of food and nature, listing to the guides or sounds around you, tasting the epicurean delights or simply touching surfaces of structures and statues.

Well now here is the flip side of it all…..listening to all the obnoxious sounds of car horns or motor scooter engines (it’s great if you have a hearing aid or cochlear since you can shut it off), smelling the unwanted scents (ugh!) or, sorry folks, touching something you wish you hadn’t (yucky). Regardless, there are many ways to enjoying everything life has to offer, it’s simply up to you, how you choose to make the best despite having a vision or hearing challenge, and of course your attitude.

I’ve said before, this is simply an opinion and thought process of my own. You can agree or disagree, life offers many choices. Ask yourself from time to time, good/bad, happiness/sadness, health/sickness or positive/negative. It’s all about staying positive in my mind.

About the Foundation for Sight & Sound, the Help America Hear Program has become a success of its own. We have had many inquiries from around the country for hearing aids and have to date fitted 4 people. We are thrilled to give the ‘Gift of Hearing” to individuals who fall through the cracks. Any support you can provide is greatly appreciated.

This summer if you haven’t already started in the past, I strongly recommend wearing sunglasses to protect your precious vision. As for your hearing, it’s not only how loud you play your music or the loud noises from fireworks and machinery but the length of time you subject yourself to them.

Okay, I’ve done enough babbling. Until next time………..

Mitch

Welcome to Sight & Sound Insights

2009-05-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to the Sight & Sound Insights blog. This blog is part of the Foundation for Sight & Sound, a registered 501c3 not for profit organization. From time to time I will post some thoughts, stories or certain issues relating to vision & hearing challenges.

Your feedback is welcome. Political and religious views are not part of the grand scheme of things. Feel free to ask questions, make comments on anything related to Sight & Sound and most all your experiences dealing with vision & hearing loss.

Thanks so much for being a part of this community.

Mitch Shapiro
President/CEO
Foundation for Sight & Sound