About PSAD
Mission
PSAD is a community hub providing resources and opportunities to foster cultural pride, community wealth, and leadership within the Deaf community in the Salish Sea and surrounding regions.
Vision
PSAD envisions a world where the Deaf Community thrives with full accessibility, communication, and inclusion. In this world, multiculturalism and diversity are embraced, and cohesive communities enjoy peace, equity, and abundant opportunities. PSAD is a dynamic, forward-thinking organization that provides valuable resources, collaborates effectively with partners, and continuously innovates to meet the evolving needs of the community. PSAD is a recognized leader in promoting the wellness and success of the community.
History
PSAD, founded 122 years ago as the "Seattle Deaf Mutes Society," evolved into the Puget Sound Association of the Deaf, starting with a picnic on Mercer Island attended by 35 people. It has since become a vital service and social center for the Deaf community in the Pacific Northwest, with citizens of all ages contributing to society over the span of 120 years. PSAD continues to meet monthly, supporting and advocating for Deaf culture, earning recognition and awards for its contributions, including the Service Award from the Washington State Association of the Deaf Convention.
PSAD Core Values
Driving Force​
Our driving force is providing accessible educational programs, knowledge and skills development, and empowering resources that foster a sense of belonging and inclusion. We believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute to and our resourcefulness allows us to find creative solutions to challenges.
We recognize that knowledge and skills are crucial components of success, which is why we strive to be a hub for learning and development. We believe that by providing access to resources, we can help individuals achieve their goals and realize their full potential. Our approach is rooted in a deep commitment to resourcefulness, which allows us to find creative and effective ways to address challenges and meet the needs of our community.
​
Well Being
Our commitment to wellbeing extends beyond just physical health and includes emotional and social well-being, which is why we are dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. We appreciate and respect each individual, recognizing that a welcoming and supportive environment is critical for fostering a sense of belonging and promoting overall wellbeing.
​
We believe in operating with integrity, always striving to do the right thing for our community. This means being transparent and accountable in our actions and decisions. We recognize the importance of mutual respect, valuing the diverse perspectives and experiences of those we serve. Our team aims to promote an atmosphere that prioritizes emotional, social, and physical well-being, creating a sense of belonging and inclusion for everyone.
​
Community Engagement
We understand the importance of historical preservation and promoting community-oriented events that foster citizenship, diversity, equity, and community identity and pride. We believe that community.
Engagement is key to building strong and vibrant communities, which is why we are dedicated to creating spaces and events where everyone can feel welcome and connected.
​
At PSAD, we are proud to be part of these communities, and we believe that our commitment to community engagement is a critical aspect of our work. We recognize the importance of celebrating our differences and promoting social and cultural understanding, which is why we prioritize initiatives that promote diversity, equity,
and inclusion. By working together, we can build stronger, more connected communities where everyone has a sense of belonging.
​
Sustainability & Growth
We are committed to achieving sustainability and growth for our organization and the communities we serve. We understand that predictable and consistent support is essential to achieving prosperity, and we strive to be resourceful in all that we do.
​
We believe that sustainability and growth are essential to achieving long-term success, and we are committed to achieving these goals in a way that is equitable and inclusive. At PSAD, we believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute to, and we work tirelessly to create an environment where individuals and communities can reach their full potential. By promoting self-sufficiency and resourcefulness, we are confident that we can help individuals and communities achieve long-term success and thrive.
Collaboration
At PSAD, we believe that collaboration is the key to achieving success for our organization and the communities we serve. We recognize the importance of integration and teamwork, valuing the contributions of every individual and promoting cooperation and inclusion.
​
We believe in forming partnerships that promote unity and collaboration, recognizing that by working together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone. We strive to create a culture of collaboration, where everyone feels empowered to contribute their unique skills and experiences towards a common goal.
​
By working together in a spirit of collaboration and partnership, we can create a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone feels valued and supported.