DEAFLINK
Working hard to increase independence and self-sufficiency for the Deaf, and bringing communities together through communication, access, and education.
DeafLink Interpreter Training Program
Building Skills. Strengthening Access.
The DeafLink Interpreter Training Program provides recruitment, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to strengthen the interpreter workforce.
Four Pathways to Professional Growth
Recruitment, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to strengthen the interpreter workforce.
Training
Ongoing professional development and specialized training to strengthen interpreting skills and support certification.
Bridge Program
An immersive interpreter residency focused on mentorship, practical experience, and professional growth.
University Outreach
Connecting local university interpreting students with DeafLink programs, professional development opportunities, and real-world community experiences.
High School Outreach
Introducing high school ASL students to interpreting careers, workforce opportunities, and Deaf community engagement.
Bridge Program Spotlight
DeafLink’s Bridge Program is a 10-month, in-person interpreter residency based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, offering personalized mentorship, supervised assignments, and hands-on experience. Residents strengthen their skills, build confidence, and prepare for professional certification while advancing communication access in our communities.
Meet Our Bridge Program Trainers
Karen Horvath, CI, CT
DeafLink Director
With more than 25 years of interpreting experience, Karen specializes in language deprivation.
Angela L. Crawford, MA, NIC Advanced, QMHI
Interpreter & Lead Bridge Mentor
Angie specializes in ASL linguistics, mental health, and legal interpreting and holds Indiana Court Certification.
Molly Zook, BA
Interpreter & Bridge Mentor
Molly specializes in DeafBlind and K–12 interpreting and holds an Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) credential.
Interested in Learning More?
Have questions about the DeafLink Interpreter Training Program or its professional development opportunities? Contact Karen Horvath, DeafLink Director, to learn more.
The contents of this webpage were developed under grant H160D260011 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this webpage may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this webpage does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed, or materials provided by any Federal agency (EDGAR 75.620).
Our DeafLink services
We believe that core values and beliefs are meaningless without action to back them up. At The League for the Blind & Disabled, when we value something or someone, we will always respond accordingly.
Interpreting
Our interpreting services have been serving the region for decades, and DeafLink is the first and only agency in the area that offers a full range of services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. Our professional staff is committed to top-notch service to provide you with accessibility when and where you need it.
Case Coordination & Advocacy
DeafLink provides case coordination and advocacy for individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. They help break down barriers that impact everyday life such as housing, employment, communication, access, and education.
Other DeafLink services include:
- On-Site Sign Language Interpreting
- Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)
- Case Coordination
- Community Education/In-Service Training
- Sign Language Classes
- Information & Referral
- Public Videophone (VP)
- Professional Development Training for Interpreters
Going the extra mile:
Our services go above and beyond meeting your needs for sign language interpreting services. In addition to the availability of certified and highly qualified interpreters, we also provide:
- Interpreter screening, training and monitoring to assist health care organizations comply with Joint Commission standards
- A large pool of intrepreters who can cover assignments when a scheduled interpreter unexpectedly becomes unavailable.
- Fast response to emergency interpreting needs through the use of video remote interpreting (VRI) or on-site intrepreting
UPCOMING DEAFLINK EVENT
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Breaking Down Barriers: Wellness Without Barriers
Join us for an open and supportive conversation about wellness, trauma, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). This session will cover different types of abuse, common warning signs, and trauma experiences that can be unique within the Deaf community. Participants are invited to learn, reflect, and connect in a safe space.
Date: November 23, 2026 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Allen County Public Library, Main Branch 900 Library Plaza, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
ASL interpreters will be provided.
Transportation Assistance: Call or text 260‑222‑5132
RSVP by November 19, 2026: Text 260‑222‑5132 or email cassidyc@the-league.org
Hosted by DeafLink, a division of The League.
CURRENT DEAFLINK EVENT
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American Sign Language Classes
DeafLink is partnering with the Jackson Lehman YMCA to offer American Sign Language Classes.
FALL 1: ASL LEVEL 2
For participants who have completed the previous Level 1 class or who already have a basic foundation in ASL.
Class Information:
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Wednesdays, 5:30–7:30 P.M.
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For ages 15 and older
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Cost: $103 YMCA member; $133 non-member.
November 4 – December 16, 2026
Class Information;
- Wednesdays, 5:30 – 6:30 P.M.
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For ages 8 – 15
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Cost: $60 YMCA member; $75 non-member.
PLEASE NOTE: 10 registrants are required for each Fall session to offer the class.
Contact Jessi Gross for Questions: Jessi_Gross@fwymca.org
Registration Link: ASL Level 2 & Kids Classes
PREVIOUS DEAFLINK EVENT
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American Sign Language Workshop
DeafLink is hosting an ASL workshop titled, “Interpreting in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Settings.” This is a three-day workshop with opportunities to attend one, two or three days. CEU credit is available for each workshop. The workshop is presented by Roger Williams.
Workshop Information:
- Friday, April 10, 2026 – 6:00 to 9:00 PM (.3 CEUs)
- Saturday, April 11, 2026 – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (.7 CEUs)
- Sunday, April 12, 2026 – 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM (.4 CEUs)
*See flyer for complete details of each workshop.
Cost for 3 Day Workshop:
- $175.00 Interpreters
- $125.00 Current DeafLink Contract Interpreters
- $50.00 Students
Cost for Individual Workshops:
- $50 – Friday Only
- $100 – Saturday Only
- $150 – Friday and Saturday
Workshop Flyer PDF | Registration Page
Guide to requesting an interpreter
Please note that requests received with less than 3 days notice are not guaranteed to be filled.
1. Contact DeafLink
Call: 260-250-4262
Email: deaflink@the-league.org
Online: Click the button below to fill out our online request form
Fax: 260-250-4262 Attn: DeafLink Interpreter Coordinator
After Hours Emergency Pager:
260-481-8153
Be sure to enter the call-back number followed by the # sign. Texting is also available.
2. Information to include when requesting an interpreter
Please provide us with the following information:
- Name of the client and the contact person
- Time, date, and address of the assignment
- Person or business to be billed
- Any pertinent authorization numbers
- Interpreting situation (staff meeting, company presentation, doctor appointment, etc.)
- Fax number for confirmation/authorization to be sent
- If applicable, video remote intrepreting (VRI), provide username
NOTICE: Once the interpreter request is completed, a confirmation/authorization can be sent by fax or email if requested.
Resources & Education
Whether it’s helping local businesses become more inclusive, conducting sign language classes, providing you with the resources to advocate for yourself, or something else, we’re ready to help you get what you need.
Other resources
What to expect from DeafLink
Learn about ASL interpreters
Learn about ASL interpreting agencies
Preparing for an ASL interpreter