Connect and Help Grow the Hub!
Don’t forget to check out the FAQs below.
“We are forgotten. We get scared. Language deprives rapidly everyday, every minute, and every second in a desperate time. ”
FAQs:
Q: Who Can Participate?
A: Any business, organization, or individual that is providing resources with access for d/Deaf/Hh people during Covid-19.
Q: What kind of content can I send in?
A: Accessible and visual content in the form of signed/captioned educational videos/playlists. Let us know of events hosted virtually, such as a live Deaf story hour, or live Deaf speaker. The goal is rather than to provide a list of links, news, and open-ended vlogs, that can incite uncertainty, confusion, or even negative thoughts —to instead create an environment where the Deaf Community can redirect from the problem and access tools to thrive while being isolated.
Q: I noticed incorrect information on here, should I go on social media and call you out?
A: Sure, as long as you make it accessible! What would really help us though is if you could send us an email info@offthegridmissions.org to let us know so that we can fix it. Everything about mission Covid-19 is grassroots, which means we are–volunteering our time–to dive deep into our network–to identify targeted information. A few mistakes are expected, but all feedback will help us improve this hub for all of us!
Q: I am not Deaf but I have a disability, do I have access to these resources?
A: Absolutely. Everyone has access. It is common for d/Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing people to be left-out of accommodations made before, during, and after a disaster. The reason is, being deaf or Deaf is not an easily identifiable nor a physical disability. So, this hub is simply building awareness, as well as, a bridge! If that means we are also providing access for someone else who although does not identify with being d/Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, Deaf-Disabled, or Deaf-Blind, yet faces challenges due to limited access or just wants to learn about Deaf Culture –then we are happy to be that bridge!
Q: Where are the News videos?
A: While our non-profit organization is very much aware of the problem, our goal is and always has been, to focus on the solutions. If we were to focus on filtering through videos that best frame what is happening with Covid-19, we will be taking away time to locate and provide resources. There are some great channels that provide accessible news and we would love to recommend them to you: Sign 1 News, H3WorldTV, and The Daily Moth are all fully accessible and highly informative news channels.
Q: Why is there such a lack of access right now?
A: “Access to communication” is not a “basic need” for most people right now. Food, masks, and toilet paper, is the Covid-19 basic necessity. So, while the world, businesses, hospitals.. etc. are adjusting to the threat, it is our (yours and mine) responsibility to focus on our community while educating the masses, and pushing for the change. I don’t want to say that if we (the Deaf Community) do not then no one else will, but I will say that if we do, others will join us and we will grow stronger.
Q: I thought cotton masks do not protect against the virus?
A: As noted in our Full Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this website is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. While we work to create a hub of centralized and accessible information for the Deaf Community, COVID-19 is an emerging disease. New knowledge is added daily and resources may change as the situation evolves. Please consult the CDC website regularly for the most up-to-date information. Off-The-Grid Missions, make no warranties, either express or implied, that the products on this website prevent infection or the transmission of viruses or diseases.
Note: we are recommending cotton masks to be built with a “filter pocket” so they can be layered inside with a disposable filter such as HEPA vacuum bag, coffee filters, blue towels.
Q: I have an accessible Vlog about Covid-19, can I suggest it for the hub?
A: While accessible vlogs about Covid-19 are greatly informative, the one thing we all know is that Covid-19 is not in anyone’s control. For this reason alone, we want this hub to be a place where people can focus on things that are in their control. If you feel the content you are suggesting is solution-based, positive, provides a sense of control and purpose, then yes send it on over and we can check it out!
Q: I have an entirely new idea for this page, can I suggest it?
A: Absolutely! The worst that can happen is we blast you out on social media. Just kidding. We will be happy to review it —and if it works, then we will go with it!
Q: Who funds Off-The-Grid Missions?
A: Our organization is 100% Non-Profit which means we are all unpaid and donations go directly towards the cause. If you would like to donate to our organization, you would be supporting a variety of our efforts. To learn more: ways to give.
Q: What about exercise videos?
A: Yup, self-care, lifestyle… these are all ideas we are considering to add in time ensuring they are educational and accessible. If you have some content, feel free to shoot it over and we can review it.
Q: After I send in a submission, how long until the page is updated?
A: 24-48 hours, we will be sure to communicate with you once it has been approved and published. If it is not approved, rest assured we will also communicate with you.
Q: Off topic, I want to get involved in the organization Off-The-Grid Missions. Is there a way?
A: Always. Check out this link.
Q: I read everything and I still do not understand what Off-The-Grid Missions is?
A: This 3 minute video sums it up: