The West Virginia Association of the Deaf (WVAD) was organized in 1915. It was established and incorporated in 1930 and is one of 51 affiliated state associations. WVAD recognizes nine chapters within the state and is governed by an Executive Board of Directors, who serve on a voluntary basis. Membership includes deaf, hard of hearing, professionals who work with the deaf and hard of hearing, and other interested individuals.

 

WVAD serves a wide array of individuals with hearing loss as an advocate as well as an information network. It hosts a State Association Biennial Conference and sends representative(s) to the National Association of the Deaf's Regional and Biennial Conferences to voice concerns gathered from the State Association Biennial Conference.

 

WVAD serves the state of West Virginia at a state level while working closely with the National Association of the Deaf. WVAD provides advocacy on issues for deaf and hard of hearing, offer support to our members, seeks to help improve the education system for our deaf and hard of hearing children, looks to help our state interpreters to improve, offer referral services as requested, and works closely with other organizations in W.V. to work together toward a common goal.