Learn About Canine Companions at our Next Chapter Presentation

close up of a canine companion puppy

Explore and learn about the life-changing impact of service dogs with Canine Companions. Since 1975, Canine Companions has provided expertly trained service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities—all at no cost. This includes supporting the hearing loss community.

Could you or someone you care about potentially benefit from a Canine Companions service dog? Join us for this engaging and fun presentation to learn more and ask questions.

 

SAVE YOUR SEAT

Presenter:

Sarah Nigoghossian

Sarah Nigoghossian

Senior Instructor at SWR

I’m Sarah, and I’ve had the privilege of working with Canine Companions for 14 years. I discovered this incredible organization while studying Animal Science at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, during a project on working dogs.

After working in various dog-related roles—boarding, training, and daycare—I joined Canine Companions in 2010. This career has deepened my understanding of dog training and given me the chance to serve diverse communities.

I’m grateful for every dog and client I’ve worked with. Training and placing dogs have taught me the value of communication, trust, and patience. It’s a job that pushes me to grow while empowering others—a true gift! ????

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.

Watch our Spooky Sounds Chapter Presentation

You’re not alone if you’ve ever experienced phantom sounds—like voices or mysterious music. These sounds are common, especially for those with hearing loss, and are often linked to conditions like Musical Ear Syndrome or Audio Pareidolia. In this presentation, Dr. Neil Bauman, Ph.D., an expert on these phenomena and author of Phantom Voices, Ethereal Music & Other Spooky Sounds, explains the causes behind these experiences and provides strategies to manage them. He’ll also address audience questions, offering reassurance and practical tips for those affected. Watch now to gain insight and find support for dealing with these misunderstood sounds.

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Watch our July Chapter Presentation!

We had a wonderful presentation and discussion with Pat Dobbs, a highly experienced and knowledgeable resource for understanding the impact of hearing loss on workplace communication, relationships, and trust. Pat has previously helped countless individuals and companies identify best practices to be more inclusive of colleagues with hearing loss and how to be more effective allies. Please watch the YouTube presentation below.

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Holiday Party Celebration!

Los Angeles chapter holiday banner

After four long years, friends and family of our chapter all had a wonderful time celebrating the holidays and each other. It was wonderful to see familiar faces and many new ones!

We are thankful for all who could join us to create lasting memories and sorry for those we’ll have to see for next time. There was a lot of gift stealing during our White Elephant event but luckily no fights! Check out our photo gallery of key moments during the party.

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Here, My Voice 3. An Experience Never to Forget!

Group shot of people from the los angeles chapter

Our chapter was well represented at the Here, My Voice 3 extraordinary event!

by Rizwana Jmari

The power of voice and self-expression took center stage Sunday, October 15, when the Hearing Loss Association of America Los Angeles Chapter (HLAA-LA) partnered with the University of Southern California for an uplifting concert event, as part of Juri Hwang’s research which combines sound art, art intervention, and neuroscience of hearing through trans-disciplinary work between Media Arts + Practice and the Keck School of Medicine’s Bionic Ear Lab.

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Hearing Health Matters: HLAA-LA Participates in Black Health Matters Summit

Los Angeles, CA – October 8, 2023 – The Hearing Loss Association of America – Los Angeles Chapter (HLAA-LA) recently participated in the Black Health Matters Health Summit and Expo held on October 7, 2023, at the St. Anne’s Family Services Conference Center in Los Angeles. It was the first major outreach event for HLAA-LA post-COVID-19 pandemic.

Discovering and learning at Black Health Matters Health Summit and Expo at the St. Anne's Family Services.

Discovering and learning at Black Health Matters Health Summit and Expo at the St. Anne’s Family Services.

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Celebrating our First Young Adult Ambassador!

Wendi presenting to Erin the scholarship award.

Wendi presented Erin with the scholarship award.

A special celebration and milestone for our Los Angeles chapter just happened! Erin McClain became our chapter’s first Young Adult Ambassador (YAA) after accepting our $2500 college scholarship. Erin hails originally from Sacramento and is attending California State University Long Beach.

The chapter hosted a nice Sunday brunch to celebrate and learn about Erin’s hearing loss journey. Diagnosed with bilateral hearing loss at age two, Erin clearly understands the challenges people face with hearing loss daily. She spoke of many ways she is able to successfully advocate for accommodations needed in class and school. She has also been an inspiration to her college peers and teachers to help them better appreciate the hearing loss community.

Erin will continue to connect with the chapter by updating us on how she is doing in school, attending a few events, and connecting on social media. Stay tuned for more information on how you can meet and learn more about Erin’s story!

 

Erin McClain. Our YAA scholarship award winner!

The LA Chapter Steering Committee with Erin

The LA Chapter Steering Committee with Erin

Erin and her friend Dulce

Erin and her friend Dulce