Edmonton Association of the Deaf
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    • MEET THE BOARD
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    • OUR HISTORY - INPROGRESS
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    • PHONE DIRECTORY
    • POLICE TRAFFIC CARD
    • TEXT WITH 911 SERVICE
    • WHERE TO BOOK INTERPRETER
    • WHERE TO LEARN ASL
  • EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
    • EAD EVENT CALENDAR
    • VOLUNTEER WITH EAD
    • VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
    • 75th ANNIVERSARY
  • MEMBERSHIP
  • FAQ
  • CONTACT US
  • DONATE
  • More
    • Home
    • About Us
      • MEET THE BOARD
      • MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS
      • MISSION, VISION & BYLAWS
      • OUR HISTORY - INPROGRESS
    • RESOURCES
      • INTERPRETER RIGHTS & TIPS
      • PHONE DIRECTORY
      • POLICE TRAFFIC CARD
      • TEXT WITH 911 SERVICE
      • WHERE TO BOOK INTERPRETER
      • WHERE TO LEARN ASL
    • EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
      • EAD EVENT CALENDAR
      • VOLUNTEER WITH EAD
      • VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
      • 75th ANNIVERSARY
    • MEMBERSHIP
    • FAQ
    • CONTACT US
    • DONATE
Edmonton Association of the Deaf
  • Home
  • About Us
    • MEET THE BOARD
    • MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS
    • MISSION, VISION & BYLAWS
    • OUR HISTORY - INPROGRESS
  • RESOURCES
    • INTERPRETER RIGHTS & TIPS
    • PHONE DIRECTORY
    • POLICE TRAFFIC CARD
    • TEXT WITH 911 SERVICE
    • WHERE TO BOOK INTERPRETER
    • WHERE TO LEARN ASL
  • EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
    • EAD EVENT CALENDAR
    • VOLUNTEER WITH EAD
    • VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
    • 75th ANNIVERSARY
  • MEMBERSHIP
  • FAQ
  • CONTACT US
  • DONATE

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at eadinfo51@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

We do not coordinate or book ASL interpreters but you can contact Deaf Hear Aberta, Choice of Interpreters or Freelance Interpreters Consolidated Inc. (FLIC). Please visit our Where to Book an Interpreter webpage for more information. 


Please visit our Where to Learn Sign Language webpage for more information. There are a lot of webites and apps you can choose from.  


No. However, we refer individuals to organizations like ACSD and ADSA, or to certified local instructors and classes.


We maintain a Community Directory (coming soon) that includes a list of organizations, contact information, and helpful resources across Alberta and Canada. 


You will be able to request a physical copy of our Community Directory for a small cost. Please contact eadinfo51@gmail.com if you wish to receive a copy of our community directory. Whether you're looking for advocacy, cultural programs, interpreting services, or support for Deafblind individuals — our directory can help guide you.


This includes groups such as:


  • Alberta Association of the Deaf (AAD)
  • Alberta Cultural Society of the Deaf (ACSD)
  • Alberta Deaf Sports Association (ADSA)
  • Alberta Society of the Deafblind (ASDB) 
  • Calgary Association of the Deaf 
  • Canadian Association of the Deaf (CAD) 
  • Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA)
  • Connect Society 
  • Deaf & Hear Alberta


EAD is a nonprofit charitable organization based in Edmonton that supports the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing community through events, programs, and advocacy. 


Yes. According to our Objectives and Bylaws, EAD’s operations are primarily focused within the City of Edmonton, Alberta and surrounding areas.


This means:

  • EAD cannot support or donate to provincial or national organizations unless they align directly with our charitable purposes.
  • Activities, events, or donations outside Edmonton are outside our scope.


Yes. As a registered charity, EAD must be open to everyone, regardless of  hearing status, race, religion, national or ethnic origin, colour, sex, age or physical or mental disability. While we focus on the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing community, our events and programs are open to anyone interested in participating.


We offer a variety of programs to support and connect our diverse community. This includes youth and senior programming, as well as general events that bring everyone together. 


We are especially committed to creating inclusive spaces for newcomers and immigrants, Indigenous community members, and LGBTQ individuals. For those looking for more specific support—such as Deaf sports, ASL classes, or age-focused opportunities—we’re happy to help connect them with the appropriate organizations. 


No, you don’t have to be a member to attend events or volunteer — everyone is welcome to get involved. However, being a member has its perks! You may want to consider signing up to make the most of your involvement. 


Active Members (must be Deaf or Hard of Hearing) can:

  • Vote and join meetings
  • Run for the Board
  • Get community updates
  • Be eligible for recognition and AAD affiliation


Yes. Hearing individuals—including CODAs, interpreters, and allies—are welcome to join as Associate Members. While they do not have voting rights, they can still access many of our programs and stay connected to the Deaf community. 


Please note: having some knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL) goes a long way in building respectful and meaningful relationships within the community.


Yes, space rentals may be available for community groups, especially Deaf-led initiatives. Please fill out our online booking form or contact eadmembership@gmail.com regarding your booking request.  Priority will be given to events that align with our mission and values.   


Yes! We accept donations and can issue tax receipts for $25 or more. Donations support our community work. Head to the Donate page to make a donation. 


You can  check our upcoming  volunteer opportunities found here.  Follow us on social media for volunteer opportunities at events, bingos, and community programs. 


EAD celebrates and recognizes outstanding members who help make our community stronger, more inclusive, and more connected. Whether they’ve helped organize events, mentored others, or quietly offered support behind the scenes — we believe every contribution matters.


To nominate someone for recognition, please fill out the online form or email eadmembership@gmail.com or eadpresident@gmail.com. Be sure to include the person’s full name and either a video or written letter outlining their contributions and why you believe they deserve to be recognized.


We strive to create an inclusive environment for everyone. If you have any accessibility needs or require referrals to support services, please contact your SSP or reach out to us in advance. Our building is equipped with an accessible parking stall, elevator, accessible washroom stalls, and our meeting spaces can be easily arranged to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices. We have wi-fi and a tablet made available for EAD members to make VRS calls as needed. 


 You can fill out our one-year membership form to get on our mailling list, follow us on Facebook or Instagram, or check our website regularly for news, events, and announcements. Members also receive special updates and notices directly via email. 


Frequently Asked Questions: Charity Overview

Please reach us at eadinfo51@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

A registered charity is a type of nonprofit that exists exclusively for charitable purposes. In Canada, charities must be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). They must operate for the public benefit and cannot serve only their members, board, or a specific class of people.


At common law, a Canadian charitable organization must:


  • Operate solely for charitable purposes
  • Meet the "Public Benefit Test"
  • Serve the broader community
     

A charity can provide help and raise funds to support those in need. 


EAD has been registered with the CRA as a charity since 1997. 


As a registered charity:

  • EAD must follow its charitable objectives as approved by the CRA.  
  • EAD’s services must be open and accessible to all ages, with a focus on supporting the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in Edmonton.  
  • EAD can accept donations and issue tax receipts.  
  • EAD can also donate to other CRA-approved charities with similar charitable goals.


According to our Objectives and Bylaws, EAD’s operations are focused on the City of Edmonton and surrounding EFRC communities. These include areas within the Extended Flat Rate Calling zone, such as:


Alberta Beach, Bon Accord, Bruderheim, Calmar, Chipman, Devon, Fort Saskatchewan, Gibbons, Hay Lakes, Keephills, Lamont, Legal, Millet, Morinville, New Sarepta, Onoway, Redwater, St. Michael, Thorsby, Tofield, and Wabamun.


This means:


EAD cannot support or donate to provincial or national organizations unless their purpose aligns directly with ours.


Activities, events, or donations outside the Edmonton area are beyond our scope.


If you're looking for charitable support beyond Edmonton, the following organizations serve wider regions:


  • Alberta Association of the Deaf (AAD) - Website coming soon 
  • Canadian Association of the Deaf (CAD)
  • Alberta Cultural Society of the Deaf (ACSD)
  • Alberta Deaf Sports Association (ADSA)
  • Alberta Society of the Deafblind (ASDB)


Only if the other group is also a CRA-registered charity with similar goals. 


EAD has spoken directly with:

  • Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) – Charities Directorate
  • Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC), which oversees charitable gaming like bingo and casino fundraising
     

You can view those conversations in ASL and English here:

  • CRA Conversation – March 5, 2019
  • CRA Conversation – March 6, 2019
  • AGLC Email Correspondence
     

For more info, visit:

  • CRA Charities: www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/charities.html
  • AGLC Charitable Gaming: www.aglc.ca/gaming/charitablegaming


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