Empowering Communication and Community
DSSC is a group of advocates, service providers and health care system representatives committed to creating and ensuring an ASL accessible continuum of care to Rochester’s Deaf 50+ community
SINCE 2024
A Journey of Advocacy
Founded by a group of passionate community leaders, Steve Lovi, Marina Barnum, Patti Canne, and Karen Putz, DSSC began as a small advocacy group and grew into a robust coalition partnering with local organizations to bridge the communication gap, ensuring deaf and hard of hearing seniors have access to resources, health care and housing.Â
What We Do
Advocacy
Empowering seniors to navigate legal and healthcare systems with confidence and clear communication access through dedicated advocacy.
Community Inclusion
Organizing accessible social events and workshops to reduce isolation and foster meaningful connections within the community.
Senior Support
Personalized assistance, resource navigation, and wellness programs uniquely tailored for the deaf and hard of hearing seniors.
The Heart of DSSC
Steve Lovi
Executive Director
Karen Putz
Community Liaison
Marina Barnum
Support Advocate
Patti Canne
Support Advocate
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About DSSC:
Deaf Senior Services Coalition (DSSC) is a community based initiative formed to create a responsive and innovative coordinated plan to provide a wide range of improved health care accessibility for Rochester's Deaf 55+ individuals and their families.
Email: deafseniorservicescoalition@gmail.com
VP: (555) 987-6543