It can be overwhelming to choose among the many charities out there today. Just a few of the factors to consider are the cause itself, the trustworthiness of the organization, and how the resources are used. Look for a large, well-known hearing health charity organization that is right for you, and join knowing you are helping a good cause.
Starkey Hearing Foundation – As a huge national and global foundation, Starkey Hearing Foundation provides hearing health services in three ways: Hear Now, Listen Carefully, and Hearing Aid Recycling. Their Hearing Aid Recycling program offers a place for you to donate your old hearing aids as gifts to those who can’t otherwise afford them. The Hear Now program helps people with limited resources obtain hearing aids. Listen Carefully is an educational program aimed at young people to educate them about the harm that loud noise and headphone use can cause. Visit the Starkey Hearing Foundation website at www.starkeyhearingfoundation.org for more details about each individual program or to make a donation.
Hearing Loss Association of America – With 14 state organizations, Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) leads the way in the U.S. as the largest national organization for sufferers of hearing loss. Its mission is to provide resources and support to individuals with hearing loss and their families while educating the public about hearing impairments. HLAA also strives to help the public through legislation and awareness. Visit the HLAA website at www.hearingloss.org to become a member or for information about upcoming charity walks in your area.
Hearing Health Foundation – Since the 1950s, Hearing Health Foundation has been committed to serving people with hearing loss. They provide research to treat and cure hearing loss and promote hearing health through prevention education for the public. For example, the largest research project at the moment focuses on cures for tinnitus. The Hearing Health Foundation makes it easy for supporters to get involved. Money is always the easiest donation for a charity to accept. This can be in the form of a one-time donation, monthly donations or gift of stock. More hands-on ways to get involved include sharing your hearing loss experience in the form of a letter or video, participating in a fundraising event or even launching a new research grant. Visit their website at www.hearinghealthfoundation.org for more information, news and updates.