SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY SERVICES VALLEY CENTER OF THE DEAF (VCD) Valley Center of the Deaf was established in 1978 by members of the Phoenix area Deaf community. Our initial focus was providing vocational and interpretation services for the Deaf, but since our founding, we have expanded to provide additional services to both the Deaf and hard of hearing communities. In 1982, we joined the Community Outreach Program for the Deaf under Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona to serve persons with a hearing loss throughout the state.

From the very beginning, our strong relationships with the Deaf and hard of hearing communities have enabled us to discover how best we can fill their needs. We pride ourselves on returning to these communities for guidance in creating new programs and services.

VCD is directed by an advisory board comprised of Deaf individuals in the community and others who have experience and interest in Deaf and hard of hearing needs and concerns.

Programs/Services: Counseling: VCD offers counseling services for consumers and family members as they deal with life’s challenges.  These may include family relationships, stress management, depression, adjustment to hearing loss, anger management and other support services as needed. Counseling services are provided on an as needed basis with support from the Tucson office of COPD.

Case Management: VCD offers a connection to resources by assisting persons with a hearing loss with financial, tax, legal, and housing issues.

Vocational: VCD provides job training, work exploration, vocational evaluation, job seeking skill classes, customized employment, supported employment and job development and placement. 

Communication Access: VCD provides access to services throughout the state of Arizona with a pool of licensed and certified interpreters matched to provide the specific communication mode.  VCD provides our interpreters for a variety of situations, including medical appointments, job interviews and personal services. 

Independent Living: VCD provides the tools to support persons in maximizing their independence.  We provided education, information, and specific skill attainment for persons needing this service.

Services for DeafBlind persons: VCD supports persons who have lost both their vision and hearing with a variety of services to include: Support Service Providers and environmental supports at home and in the community.

Technology and Equipment Assistance:  In collaboration with AZ TEP, VCD helps persons find the assistive hearing device and equipment that best fits their needs.   Equipment ranges from doorbells and alarms, to TTY machines and video teleconferencing and phone equipment. Community

Services: VCD stays connected with its hearing loss communities by offering workshops to seniors, sign language classes, health classes, computer classes and other classes that the community may be interested in obtaining. Additional Information can be obtained at: www.vcdaz.org Contact: Cindy Walsh: Agency Director, 602-267-1921