The Virgin Islands Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities has announced the launch of the Allied Help Coalition, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities in the Virgin Islands.

As an underserved population, the coalition’s primary focus is to advance research and advocacy for individuals with hearing and visual impairments, as well as those living with mobility challenges. By fostering collaboration and resource sharing, the Allied Help Coalition provides free access to essential information and training for individuals with disabilities and their families across the territory.

In addition to strengthening support systems, the coalition seeks to bridge communication gaps and empower the wider community with the tools necessary to effectively interact with the deaf and hard-of-hearing population.

The Allied Help Coalition is made possible through a grant from the Grassroots Project, launched in 2023 by the Administration for Community Living. This project aims to ensure that people with disabilities and their families have access to resources, peer-to-peer networks, and a strong voice in shaping the disability policies and support systems that directly impact their lives. By centering the perspectives and priorities of people with disabilities, the Grassroots Project reinforces the importance of inclusive and responsive community development.

Through this initiative, VIUCEDD and the Allied Help Coalition have launched several programs, including a virtual American Sign Language course and an in-person, 6-week ASL course. They have also organized workshops focused on early childhood interventions, promoted disability awareness through targeted media campaigns, and developed a series of disability sensitivity training sessions. If you have an interest in any of these initiatives, please reach out to the Virgin Islands University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities via email at khalifa.thomas@uvi.edu or by telephone at 340-693-1322.

VIUCEDD, an extension of the University of the Virgin Islands, works to advance opportunities and improve the quality of life for people with developmental and other disabilities in the Virgin Islands. Through education, advocacy, and outreach, VIUCEDD works to create a more inclusive community where all individuals can thrive.

This announcement comes at a fitting time as September marks Deaf Awareness Month, a reminder of the importance of accessibility, compassion, and community support for individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing.