Center on Disability Studies

2022 - 2023 Annual Report

Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind and Deaf Services

CDS provides services for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind and Deaf individuals, including communication access (e.g., sign language interpreters and alternative format materials), disability accommodations, youth and family development, a range of employment services, and continuing education.

The Comprehensive Service Center (CSC) is a one-stop support and referral service funded by the Hawai‘i State Legislature and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation through a contract with the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa Center on Disability Studies (CDS). We provide academic classes, workshops, accessibility support, summer youth programs, and fun events that encourage the inclusion of all consumers.

Services Offered by the CSC

Accessible Materials Production
Community Classes
Deaf-Blind Services
English and Math Classes
Hearing Loss Support Group
Kupuna Group
Ohana Programs
Sign Language Classes
Support Service Provider Program
Youth Programs

Interested in Services for Your Child?

If you can identify with one of the following conditions listed under the Degree of Vision Loss AND one of the conditions listed under Degree of Hearing Loss, your child can receive services from the Hawai’i & Pacific Deaf-Blind Project.

Degree of Vision Loss (one of the following):

Low Vision (visual acuity of 20/70 to 20/200)
Legally Blind (visual acuity of 20/200 or less or field restriction of 20 degrees)
Light Perception Only
Totally Blind
Cortical Visual Impairment – CVI
Diagnosed Progressive Loss
Further Testing Needed
Documented Functional Vision loss

Degree of Hearing Loss (one of the following):

Mild (26-40 dB loss)
Moderate {41-55 dB loss)
Moderately Severe (56-70 dB loss)
Severe (71-90 dB loss)
Profound (91+ dB loss)
Diagnosed Progressive Loss
Further Testing Needed
Documented Functional Hearing Loss
Cochlear Implants
Auditory Neuropathy
Central Auditory Processing Disorder

If you are interested in receiving free services/technical assistance for your child or a student who is deaf-blind (has both a vision and hearing loss), please complete and return the Referral Form to the Hawai‘i & Pacific Deaf-Blind Project. Once this information is received, you will be contacted to determine what the specific need is and the best time to schedule the visit.