The Kansas Association of the Deaf (KAD) is a statewide non-profit organization operating independently of government and other organizations, it's office is in Olathe, KS. Focusing on the philosophy of serving not to it's membership, but all deaf and hard of hearing people in Kansas to obtain equal accessibility for all. There are currently over 390 members and continuing to grow so please become a member for KAD.

Membership:
There are currently over 390 members and continuing to grow so please become a member for KAD. The benefit of membership is to receive newsletter, e-newsletter, and discounts for special events, printed materials, videotapes, and devices for the deaf. As a member, you will be able to serve as an officer or committee member to improve in many area and opportunity to participate during biennial conferences and business meetings. All graduating deaf seniors gets one year of free membership.

History:
KAD was found in 1909 at a picnic in Wichita with 42 members because the founders were concerned about the welfare of the deaf community. The organization was chartered by the state of Kansas in 1910. Affiliated with National Association of the Deaf (NAD) since 1911. More information about NAD at www.nad.org.

Our Mission:
Along with NAD and other state associations of the deaf our purpose are to bring deaf and hard of hearing individuals together to promote greater access into the mainstream of life. Also works closely in the follow areas; the expanding needs of deafness, promote equality in job opportunities, removal of communication barriers, communication rights, obtaining education and rehabilitation for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing people. Also to assure that an extensive, organized system of services is accessible to all deaf or heard of hearing in Kansas. It is also to enable them to achieve their maximum potential through increased independence, productivity, and integration into the community.

Training Programs:
The KAD helps its members to develop leadership abilities by sending selected individuals to Officers' Training Workshops, Deaf Leadership Training, and other workshops or conventions in either Kansas or other states. These programs are one of the many tools to educate our people to be leaders.

Youth:
Youth Leadership Camp (YLC), a 4-weeks camp up to 64 students (32 female, 32 male) annually during the summer at Camp Taloali in Stayton, Oregon.

National Leadership & Literacy Camp (NLLC), a 2-weeks camp program each for 5th to 8th grades, and 9th to 12th grades in two separate programs at Camp Lakodia in Madison, South Dakota.