HEAR Center Receives $25,000 Grant from S. Mark Taper Foundation to Expand Hearing and Speech Screening Programs Across LA County

Pasadena-based HEAR Center has received a $25,000 grant from the S. Mark Taper Foundation through a partnership that’s poised to significantly enhance accessibility to crucial hearing and speech screening programs across Los Angeles County.

As HEAR Center continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the community, the grant represents a critical step towards realizing its vision of a future where quality hearing and speech care are accessible to all individuals, a statement by HEAR Center said.

“Thanks to the S. Mark Taper Foundation’s continued support, we are set to reach out to more individuals in need of our services this year,” Ellen Simon, Executive Director at HEAR Center, said. “Prior to the pandemic, we were able to serve a significantly higher number of clients, and our goal is to surpass those numbers.”

HEAR Center, established in 1954 by Dr. Ciwa Griffiths, revolutionized hearing-impaired children’s education with the Auditory Approach. This method, emphasizing early identification of hearing loss, hearing aids, and speech training, was championed by Dr. Griffiths and supported by Glen and Margaret Bollinger, who helped Dr. Griffiths establish HEAR Center’s Pasadena headquarters in 1969.

The Bollingers’ funding enabled HEAR Center to expand its services, leading to groundbreaking results in speech development for hearing-impaired individuals. Today, HEAR Center’s pioneering approach is widely adopted, making it a global leader in hearing testing and therapy programs.

The company’s statement said the grant from the S. Mark Taper Foundation comes at a crucial time as the organization aims to return to pre-pandemic service levels.

“Thanks to the S. Mark Taper Foundation’s continued support, we are set to reach out to more individuals in need of our services this year,” said Ellen Simon, Executive Director, at HEAR Center. “Prior to the pandemic, we were able to serve a significantly higher number of clients, and our goal is to surpass those numbers.”

HEAR Center relies on the support from grants and charitable donations to sustain and grow its programs. Contributions like those from the S. Mark Taper Foundation are instrumental in allowing HEAR Center to continue its vital work in the community.

“Together, we are creating a future where quality hearing and speech care is accessible to all,” Simon added.

HEAR Center offers free hearing and speech screenings, in addition to a full range of services to individuals of all ages, regardless of their ability to pay. Its mission is to eliminate the stigma and limitations associated with hearing and speech challenges through treatment, education, and advocacy.

For more information, visit www.hearcenter.org.