Sign Language Interpreting Services
Are you in need of a Sign Language Interpreter?
An American Sign Language Interpreter is a professionally trained individual with the skills and knowledge of both English and American Sign Language (ASL), enabling them to effectively translate from one language to the other. Certified and qualified Interpreters strictly adhere to a Code of Ethics and, therefore, are sworn to confidentiality, professionalism and excellence. DEAF C.A.N.! always places the most appropriately qualified or certified Interpreter into assignments paying close attention to the skill level of Interpreters, assignment needs, length of assignments and client needs.
Request Protocol
To request the services of an Interpreter, please call or fax the Interpreter Request form to DEAF C.A.N.! To expedite the process of requesting an Interpreter, please have the following information available before filling out the form:
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Tips for using Interpreters!
The Interpreter is there to facilitate communication between Deaf and Hearing People. The only information they will be transmitting is the message you and the other participant(s) wish to convey. Interpreters will NOT be adding opinions or recommendations to your conversations, nor will they change the INTENT of the message. Any anger, fear, happiness, excitement or sarcasm will be conveyed by the Interpreter.
It is important to remember that in an Interpreted situation, some things may not translate easily from one language to another and the Interpreter may have to use longer or shorter expressions to relay the message. This may impact the turn-taking portion of the situation. For example: You may notice times when the Interpreter is still signing after you have finished speaking or may continue speaking when the Deaf person is no longer signing. This is a normal part of the Interpreting process. ESTABLISH GOOD EYE CONTACT. Talk directly to the Deaf person (s). There is no need for you to look at the Interpreter or ask the Interpreter to repeat what you say. This is done automatically as you speak with the person you wish to address. The Deaf person may not be giving you eye contact since they must look at the Interpreter for your message. However, they are responding to what YOU say. GROUP SETTING When the need for bringing an Interpreter into a group setting arises, here are some helpful tips:
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