[Pturner]

Originally Posted by DeafDeaf

Regarding the programs offered via VRD, including the non-government gatherings, clubs, classes, etc., the VRD, according to the Title II of ADA, is responsible to provide reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities, regardless whether it is volunteer-supported program or not, because they are held on the premises of the Villages Community Development Districts (recreation centers, schools, and public places). VCDD has responded that their lawyer gave the opinion that VCDD/VRD is not responsible for providing effective communication needs for those non-government programs on their own premises. If their buildings are accessible for those with physical handicaps, why cannot they recognize those whose physical handicaps does include the hearing disabilities because loss of hearing is also physical. Lipreading is not 100% effective because it is not more visual than the signing hands/fingers. Those Villagers who are deaf do need the qualified interpreters in order to have effective communication in any program like other people who are normal.

Hi DeafDeaf,
Could you share what you feel the Rec. Department must do to meet your criteria?