Sertoma Club of Minot supports Minot State Deaf Mentor Program
MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University Department of Special Education is one of 72 programs nationwide to receive a 2022 Sertoma Club Grant. The grant will be used by the department to support its Deaf Mentor Program.
“MSU’s Deaf Mentor Program pairs trained Deaf mentors who are native American Sign Language users with students to enhance their language skills and cultural awareness. We are grateful for Sertoma’s support,” said Holly Pedersen, special education department chair.
The grant will help defray costs of the program and continue to provide Minot State students with an excellent educational experience. It marks the second straight year the program has received a Sertoma Club Grant.
Sertoma Club of Minot is part of the International Sertoma, Inc. family of local civic service clubs. A thriving nonprofit service organization that has been in existence for over a century, Sertoma is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those at risk or impacted by hearing loss through education and support. The Minot Sertoma Club has emphasized the sponsorships highlighted by the international organization including speech and hearing disorders, youth related activities, and heritage. Since 1959, the Minot Sertoma Club has donated more than $1 million to the Minot community and area.
“Sertomans throughout the United States and Canada are dedicated to creating communities that serve the needs of many,” said Amy Ellington, Sertoma interim executive director. “We created this grant program to help members like Sertoma of Minot support community charitable programs and organizations.”
“A goal of Sertoma is to raise public awareness of hearing related issues. The number of people, the age ranges affected, and the health implications are much broader than the general public might suspect,” said David Gowen, Minot Sertoma Club president. “But there are things that can be done, like the work of MSU’s Deaf Mentor Program. And through better education of hearing health issues, Sertoma’s hope is that we can increase awareness and erase public stigma about hearing loss and make communication accessible to everyone.”
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 02/23/22
