Enjoying Super Bowl LX!

Group of Los Angeles chapter members posing during the Super Bowl party
Chapter members enjoying food during the game
The LA chapter community came together for a wonderful Super Bowl gathering hosted by Tim and Blanca, and the afternoon couldn’t have been more enjoyable. Even though the game itself wasn’t the most thrilling, the relaxed energy in the room made up for it. Members and friends filled the space with conversation, laughter, and the kind of easy connection that we are known for.
Chapter members enjoying food during the game

Throughout the game, people drifted between the TV, the food table, and each other—sharing stories, catching up, and welcoming new faces with open arms. Whether folks came for football, friendship, or simply a fun afternoon out, everyone found something to enjoy.

Sandy, Nanci, and Teri smiling to the cameraOf course, no chapter get‑together is complete without great food and even better camaraderie. There was homemade dishes to plenty of pizza and buffalo wings, and the spread was as inviting as the calories! As the day wrapped up, events like this remind us how meaningful it is to show up for one another, celebrate community, and create memories that last long after the final whistle.

Would you like to host a social event or have ideas for the chapter? Please email us at info@hlaa-la.org and let us know!

 

Breaking the Silence: Three Women, One Powerful Conversation on Hearing Loss and Identity

In a moving and inspiring presentation at our September meeting, three African American women—Erika Jones, Vanessa Branch, and Nemiah Hobbs—shared their deeply personal journeys with hearing loss. Their stories and experiences, filled with resilience, advocacy, and transformation, illuminated the power of community and the importance of embracing one’s identity, even when it’s invisible to the world.

Voices that matter presentation featuring three black creative writers

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Enjoying a Day at the Movies With Captions!

A group of Los Angeles chapter members at the AMC theater at The GroveA group of chapter friends enjoyed an outing to a captioned movie, The Naked Gun. No complicated devices, no tech hiccups, just a smooth, relaxing experience where everyone could fully engage with the film. For many, it was the first time to truly feel included in a theater setting, where accessibility wasn’t an afterthought but simply part of the experience.

Moments like these remind us why this chapter matters. Sharing laughter, reactions, and the full experience was a powerful affirmation that inclusion can—and should—be effortless. This outing wasn’t just a movie night; it was a glimpse into what’s possible when accessibility meets connection. We’re already looking forward to the next one.

If you would like to learn more about this chapter and how it can help you or a loved one with hearing loss, please contact us at info@hlaa-la.org or use the contact us form. Don’t forget to join our chapter news email list. Just look for the “Subscribe to Chapter News” box on this page.

A Warm and Supportive HOPE Gathering at Anna’s

Anna our HOPE meeting.

Our host, Anna

The Los Angeles Chapter gathered for its latest Hearing Other People’s Experiences (HOPE) meeting, hosted by Anna Rubenstein. We want to thank Anna for opening her home for a warm and supportive gathering to discuss challenges from hearing loss. The energy in the room was one of genuine connection and hope.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with hearing loss, we are hear for you. Just email us at info@hlaa-la.org or use our contact us form. Our next HOPE gathering will be coming this fall so stay tuned.

A Wonderful April HOPE Gathering

Hearing Other People's Experiences logo

Group picture of our April 2025 HOPE gathering

HOPE Attendees

The chapter had an engaging and heartwarming HOPE gathering. These gatherings are more than just meetings—they are safe, empowering moments where we share our stories, questions, and victories in navigating a world that doesn’t always accommodate hearing loss. The sense of connection and understanding in the room reminded us just how powerful in-person support can be.

Room picture of the group listening to each story

Stories shared by all, felt by all

A heartfelt thank you to Tim Browning for setting up the loop and making sure everyone could fully participate—your efforts never go unnoticed. And Anna Rubinstein, your baklava was the icing on the cake (or shall we say, the sweet spot in our day)! And of course, a big thank you to Alicia and Mike for opening up their home for this important gathering.

With all the great food, diets were joyfully forgotten, and laughter filled the room. If you are interested in joining our next HOPE gathering, mark your calendar for Saturday, June 28.

Teri sharing her story of just activating her cochlear implants

Chapter member Teri Breier shares her cochlear implant story

Our trusty loop system

Our old but trusty loop system

HOPE Meeting Brings New Faces and Heartfelt Stories: A Family of Support

Jamie, Alison, and GeorgiaIt was standing-room only at our Hearing Other People’s Experiences (HOPE) meeting on February 22, where about 15 people gathered, including several new to HLAA. Attendees shared their heartfelt hearing loss stories and supported each other for two hours and many stayed afterwards to continue the conversation, while enjoying the brunch feast provided by our “hostess with the mostess” Georgia Fleischer. The theme of our sharing seemed to be “We are all family and never alone.”

Wendi and friend at the chapter HOPE meetingHLAA National even sent a photographer to shoot some photos for their upcoming magazine and other channels, with Communications representative and longtime HLAA-LA member Teri Breier present to relay the latest updates.

 

Los Angeles Chapter Celebrates 20 Years with a Joyous Holiday Party

The Los Angeles Chapter marked a significant milestone this holiday season by celebrating its 20th anniversary with a festive gathering that brought together over 50 members and guests. Held at the beautiful home of Heather and Frank, the event combined the spirit of the holidays with a heartfelt tribute to two decades of supporting the local hearing loss community

Honoring Two Decades of Dedication

Chapter presidents - Heather, Wendi (current), Valerie, and Malik.

Chapter presidents – Heather, Wendi (current), Valerie, and Malik.

The party celebrated past presidents, notable chapter members, supportive families, and our 2024-25 Young Adult Ambassador. Collectively, the gathering was perfect to honor the chapter’s rich history and its contributions over the years. Everyone who attended underscored the enduring impact of the chapter’s work and its ability to foster a sense of belonging and purpose within the hearing loss community.

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HOPE Halloween Gathering

People discussing their hearing loss storiesWe want to thank our wonderful hosts, Valecia & Vince, for generously hosting our Halloween themed HOPE gathering at their beautiful home. A big shout-out to Tim Browning for setting up the loop system and Wendi Washington for leading the insightful discussion, and to everyone who shared their personal hearing loss stories. This gathering was a true example of what it means to find strength and connection within a community of caring individuals.

Our HOPE meetings are always a safe space where we can share experiences, offer support, and provide valuable information. We are all on our unique hearing loss journey, but through these shared stories, we find understanding and solidarity in each other’s struggles, triumphs, and growth. Thank you to all who attended for your openness with those who get it. And, of course, a special mention to the delicious spread of food—because who doesn’t love a good bite during Halloween month (with no calories, of course!)? We are grateful for each and every one of you. ❤️

 

If you would like to learn more about our HOPE gatherings or want more information about how the chapter can help you or a loved one struggling with hearing loss, please email us at info@hlaa-la.org.

Are you Hearing Spooky Sounds? Join our Next Chapter Presentation

When: Saturday, September 28
Time: 10-11 a.m PT
Place: On Zoom

Topic: Musical Ear Syndrome and Audio Pareidolia—Unraveling the Mystery of the Phantom Voices, Ethereal Music & Other Spooky Sounds Many Hard of Hearing People Secretly Experience

REGISTER
Note: You will receive the meeting link after you register

Please put on your calendar to join us on Saturday, September 28, for an interesting and unique presentation on the unusual “spooky” sounds hard of hearing people experience.

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