Career goals are developed through self-knowledge and awareness, which provides us with an understanding of what the world of work expects. A small business, which works with deaf and hard of hearing young adults, can operate with this philosophy in mind. A social enterprise business called "Keepsake Theme Quilts and Wall Hangings"was created in 1998 to provide:

1. Individuals with an attractive and functional t-shirt theme quilt that commemorates important life events;
2. A meaningful employment opportunity for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, in an environment where communication is not a barrier for sharing ideas and full participation in decision-making; and
3. A new source of revenue to support other programs at Deaf Initiatives.

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The idea for Keepsake Theme Quilts evolved from the desire to develop a product to support Deaf Initiatives as well as to create a work experience model for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. The goal was to identify something hands-on, visual and lending itself to a beginning-to-end process. Making and selling t-shirt theme quilts met these criteria. Both the product and processes seemed to be a match for producing income and developing a deaf friendly work environment, one that is conducive to communication, motivation and linguistic/cultural sensitivity. In 2005, Keepsake Theme Quilts provides sustainable jobs for 8 adults who are deaf or hard of hearing and plans to employ an additional 8 - 10 young adults for a first time job experience. Employees receive a starting salary commensurate with their experience and length of employment with the opportunity to increase that wage through performance-based reviews.

The operation of our business is driven by daily goals. These goals are well documented on our activities board. Once completed the student is required to place an "X" on the board to indicate the goals completion. This visual representation of our priorities helps to direct the student and enhances the ability to act independently.

Deaf Initiatives, Inc.'s Work Experience Model offers an opportunity for work experience, development of job readiness skills and interests and an arena to utilize new skills. This work experience model offers an opportunity to the deaf and hard of hearing student for exposure to a manufacturing business, which includes learning eight Product Development Assembly Stations.

Deaf Initiative's Work Experience Model offers an opportunity for the students, at the completion of the program, to leave with a feeling of accomplishment, pride in producing a quality product, develop work skills, learn the rewards of hard work, practice communication/interpersonal skills and gain work experience that will be beneficial to both the young adult and their future employers.

At Deaf Initiatives, we stress the importance of:
        1.  Setting Goals
        2.  Following Instructions
        3.  Taking Responsibility
        4.  Working Independently
        5.  Teamwork
        6.  Being Proud of Their Accomplishments

If you are a young adult looking for a first time job experience, contact Meredith Crane at Thedeafund@aol.com

Keepsake Theme Quilts has received donations and grants from a variety of organizations and individuals around the country. This support is essential to the continuation of our business. We especially would like to thank Abercrombie & Fitch, The Harry C. Moores Foundation and The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio for their support.

For more information about ordering a T-shirt Quilt, visit the Keepsake Theme Quilts website at http://www.tshirtquilts.com.