As a sign language interpreter, you must stay up-to-date on the latest trends and news in your field. Professional associations, like the American Sign Language Teachers Association and the National Association of the Deaf, are a great way to immerse yourself in information related to the deaf and hard of hearing community.
American Sign Language Teachers Association
The American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) is the only national, professional association that is exclusively for American Sign Language and Deaf Studies Educators. Some of the things the ASLTA focuses on include promoting the teaching of ASL, advocating the needs of ASL teachers and improving the professional status of ASL educators.
American Translator Association
If you are looking for an association of sign language interpreters, you may be interested in the American Translator Association. This organization is 10,000 members strong and includes those who are translators, interpreters, teachers, software developers and more! Members can expect affordable professional development, certification resources and networking opportunities.
National Association of the Deaf
The National Association of the Deaf is the nation's premier civil rights organization of, by and for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. The association's advocacy focuses on current and future generations. Their goal is to improve the lives of millions of deaf and hard of hearing Americans by focusing on early intervention, education, employment, healthcare, technology, telecommunications and more.
National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) is part of the National Institutes of Health. The NIDCD conducts and supports biomedical and behavioral research and research training in the normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, taste, smell, voice, speech, and language.
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf: A national membership organization representing the professionals who facilitate communication between people who are deaf or hard of hearing and people who hear.
