Peer Support Group (PSG) is a structured gathering for D/deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or non-verbal adults with developmental delays, their caregivers, and families. The focus of these group sessions is to enhance communication skills through structured activities. These opportunities increase clients' communication partners and strategies, improving access to health, safety and vocational situations and services. For PSG class times and dates, refer to MCD Calendar of Events.

For more information contact Darleen Winship:
207-767-7656 (tty)
Email: dwinship@mcdmaine.org

Sponsored by Department of Health and Human Services

Training Announcement

Maine Department of Health & Human Services and the Maine Center on Deafness Present Visual Gestural Communication (VGC) Classes

What is Visual-Gestural Communication?
Visual Gestural Communication (VGC) is a way of communicating based on using the face, hands, and body. Often individuals who cannot communicate effectively using either a spoken language like English, or a formal signed language like ASL, will be able to communicate more effectively using natural gestures.

Why do I need training?
Training will help you be more aware of your body language and learn how to use VG effectively. Training will help you get out of the habit of speaking and into the habit of gesturing in a way that best fits your consumer's communication needs and goals. Your modeling of this form of communication may expand the consumer's use of gestures and enhance their communication options.

*PLEASE SHARE THIS NOTICE WITH CONSUMERS AND FAMILIES WHO MIGHT PARTICIPATE

To for more information on classes contact  vgc@mcdmaine.org

To register for classes contact the DHHS Adult Developmental Services Coordinator in your area - see the below list or download the attached flyer. Classes are FREE for consumers, their families, staff and case managers. However, registration is limited.

Region 1

April 7th 2009 - Sanford

April 21st 2009 - Portland

Laurie Kimball
DHHS Adult Developmental Services
175 Lancaster St.
Portland, ME 04101
Tel. 822-0270
Fax  822-0295
laurie.kimball@maine.gov
Region 2

Sept 9th 2008 - Bangor

Sept 23rd 2008 - Rockland

Oct 7th 2008 -Augusta

Oct 21st 2008 -Lewiston

Roxanne Rollins
DHHS Adult Developmental Services
#11 SHS  CETA Bldg.
Augusta, ME 04333-0011
Tel. 287-4409
Fax  287-7186
roxanne.rollins@maine.gov
Region 3

Aug 8th 2008 - Caribou

Phil Leonard
DHHS Adult Developmental Services
176 Hogan Rd.
Bangor, ME 04401
Tel.  941-4058
Fax  941-4389
phil.leonard@maine.gov
Augusta and Lewiston events will be cancelled if UMA (University of Maine Augusta is closed. Bangor will cancel if Bangor Adult Ed cancels.
Special Thanks to:
All volunteers who help at PSG meetings and to all businesses and individuals contributing to PSG.
Maine Center on Deafness, MCD | 68 Bishop Street, Suite 3 Portland, Maine 04103
(207) 797-7656 TTY/V | Fax: (207) 797-9791 | 1-800-639-3884 TTY/V outside the Portland calling area
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