Sign Language Interpreting Services

Welcome to DEAF C.A.N.! We are a nonprofit agency dedicated to providing professional sign language interpreting services. Our mission is to bridge communication gaps and ensure accessibility for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing individuals in various settings. With a commitment to excellence, our interpreters follow strict ethical standards and uphold complete confidentiality.
Whether you need interpreting services for a medical appointment, legal proceedings, or community events, DEAF C.A.N.! is here to help. Explore our services and learn how we can support effective communication tailored to your needs.

Our Commitment to Transparency

As a nonprofit agency, DEAF C.A.N.! strives to maintain the highest level of transparency in all our operations. We are committed to providing clear and accessible information about our services and rates. Our rate details are readily available on the Interpreter Request Form, ensuring that you have all the information you need upfront. We believe in fostering trust and accountability by making our processes as transparent as possible.

How to Request an Interpreter

Policies
DEAF C.A.N.! is dedicated to providing professional sign language interpreting services to ensure effective communication between Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing individuals and hearing individuals. Our interpreters adhere to the highest ethical standards and maintain strict confidentiality.

​To request the services of an interpreter, please call, email, 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:
  • Assignment Date: Include the starting and ending time.
  • On-Site Contact Person and Phone Number: Provide accurate contact details.
  • Location: Include the exact address, building name, and office number.
  • Directions: Provide directions to the location, including major cross streets.
  • Billing Information: Ensure the billing details are accurate and complete.​
Requests for interpreters should be made at least one week prior to the assignment date, if possible. Requests made with less notice will still be accepted, and every effort will be made to locate an interpreter. However, DEAF C.A.N.! does not guarantee interpreter availability or accept liability for unavailable interpreters. All assignments include a two-hour minimum payment.

For rates, cancellation policies, and other details, please contact DEAF C.A.N.! directly.
CANCELLATION/RESCHEDULE POLICY: Assignments cancelled or/or rescheduled with less than 48 hours notice (two working days) will still accrue billing for the total contracted  time.  This includes “no shows” and last minute cancellations.
 
INTERPRETER PAYMENT:  No on-site payment is to be made to the Interpreter.  Approximately two weeks following the assignment, DEAF C.A.N.!  will generate an invoice for services (see rate box to the right).  The on-site contact person will be asked to sign an Interpreter invoice only confirming the number of hours worked, the assignment date and location.  If the client is a “no-show”, the Interpreter will wait 30 minutes for the client.  After 30 minutes, the Interpreter will leave.
 
SPECIALTY ASSIGNMENTS:  Please note that there is an additional fee charged for “specialty assignments”.  These include, but are not limited to Psychiatric Evaluations and Medical checks,  Hospital Emergency Rooms, Court Rooms, Attorney Visits, Legal situations, etc.  (see rate box to the right)
 
AFTER HOURS/WEEKENDS/HOLIDAY ASSIGNMENTS:   There is an additional  fee charged for services rendered between the hours of 5:00 pm and 7:00 am (evening hours), and for weekend/holiday hours.   (see rate box to the right)
 
MILEAGE:  Interpreters will charge the current federal mileage rate (round trip).  Assignments that are located outside of a thirty mile radius from the Interpreter’s starting point may charge “portal to portal” fees rather than mileage.  Interpreters will not utilize both portal to portal and mileage systems concurrently.  Interpreters will also charge for any parking/toll costs.
 
MULTIPLE INTERPRETERS:  Assignments that are two hours or more in length will require two Interpreters.  Additional Interpreters may be necessary depending on the nature of the assignment and/or event.  Rates are charged per Interpreter.

The Role of the Interpreter

The interpreter’s primary role is to facilitate clear and accurate communication between Deaf and hearing individuals. They serve as a neutral conduit, transmitting only the messages that you and the other participant(s) wish to convey. Interpreters will not add personal opinions, recommendations, or modify the intent of your message. Any emotions such as anger, joy, or sarcasm will be conveyed faithfully to preserve the tone and meaning of your conversation.
It is important to note that some concepts may not translate seamlessly between languages. As a result, interpreters may use longer or shorter expressions to convey the full meaning of the message. This can impact the natural flow of conversation, such as:
  • The interpreter continuing to sign after you have finished speaking.
  • The interpreter speaking while the Deaf individual is no longer signing.
This is a normal and expected part of the interpreting process.
Best Practices for Effective Communication
  • Establish Good Eye Contact: Always direct your attention to the Deaf individual(s), not the interpreter.
  • Speak Naturally: There is no need to pause or ask the interpreter to repeat what you say. The interpreter will automatically convey your message as you speak.
  • Understand Visual Focus: Deaf individuals may look at the interpreter while receiving your message but are responding to what you say.
Group SettingsIn group environments, effective communication requires additional considerations:
  • One Speaker at a Time: Interpreters can only relay one message at a time. To ensure clarity, avoid overlapping conversations.
  • Facilitate Turn-Taking: Encourage participants to speak clearly and one at a time to support the interpreter’s ability to convey each message accurately.
By following these guidelines, you help create an inclusive and effective communication experience for everyone involved.