Illinois Coda

OUR MISSION STATEMENT
The purpose of Illinois CODA nfp is to support, educate and act as advocate on behalf of hearing children of Deaf adults. We accomplish this by providing opportunities to share our unique experiences with one another and with the community, thereby creating a support network and a sense of belonging. We also serve as a resource for the community, to create an awareness of our organization.

FAMILY AWARENESS
Our culture is a very wonderful and beautiful environment. Illinois CODA values family. We promote functions that will help to bring us closer together with our parents and culture always stressing that while we may have differing abilities, we share a beautiful cultural heritage and believe it should be celebrated.

In honor of our culture, we celebrate Mother-Father-Deaf Day. The holiday is held the last Sunday of April. On this day we celebrate our shared heritage and culture. CODAs mark this day internationally by holding events that range from family oriented celebrations to Deaf/CODA themed entertainment.
WHO IS A CODA?
Hearing adult (18 and above) children of Deaf parents. We also welcome individuals who grew up hearing and had the coda experience but have since become Deaf (late deafened adults). This includes families with one Deaf parent, both Deaf parents, additional Deaf family members, families who signed, families who didn’t, professionals in the field of deafness and non-professionals.
WHAT DOES ILLINOIS CODA DO?
Illinois CODA endeavors to carry out the mission of the International organization by organizing cross cultural social events, participating in forums.
Many social and community service events are planned all year long. If you would like to know more about membership or how to get involved, please contact us.