If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please use the contact form on our website to reach us.
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.
A paper copy of our Community Directory is available for a small fee. Use the contact form on our website to request one. The directory includes information on advocacy, Deaf culture programs, interpreters, and Deafblind support.
This includes groups such as:
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:
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:
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 for 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.
Please fill out the JotForm—it helps you know what to include. You can also hit the “Contact” button, but the form is the easiest way to make sure we get all the details.
Make sure to tell us the person’s full name and include either a video or a short write-up about what they’ve done and why they deserve a shout-out.
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.
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:
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:
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:
Only if the other group is also a CRA-registered charity with similar goals.
EAD has spoken directly with:
You can view those conversations in ASL and English here:
For more info, visit:
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