The Pennsylvania Partnership for the Deafblind (PPDB)

Introduction

In Pennsylvania, there are approximately 425 children (birth to 21) who are deafblind.  There is no reliable census of the number of adults with deafblindness, although some estimates put the number between 1,000 and 3,000.

Deafblindness is not merely the loss or impairment of two senses (1+1 does not equal 2).  As Helen Keller stated, “Blindness cuts you off from things; deafness cuts you off from people.”  In addition, approximately 80% of children who are deafblind have at least one other disability or health condition that affects their lives.

When a small population of people with unique, and often complicated, needs is spread throughout such a geographically large state as Pennsylvania, it is very difficult for these individuals and their families to identify, talk to, and learn from people in similar situations.

The Pennsylvania Partnership was created to help people who are deafblind and their families make these connections and support each other.

PPDB is a federally-approved 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation.  We have been legally incorporated in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania since October 2007.  Contributions to PPDB are tax deductible.

Governed by a Board of Directors, the Partnership is a family-led organization. Our members set the organization’s priorities, mold its agenda to serve their needs, and represent other families when educating public officials on issues involving deafblindness.

As of May 1, 2009, PPDB has approximately 30 members, most of whom are parents of children with deafblindness.

PPDB was honored to be selected as the first State Affiliate of the National Family Association for Deaf-Blind (NFADB).  PPDB also has a close partnership with the PA Deafblind Project (Hand in Hand), which has provided support, assistance, training and encouragement.