May 10, 2024 – For over 15 years, DHC has proudly represented the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults (HKNC) in Washington, D.C., and Albany, NY.

Through our advocacy and federal lobbying efforts, HKNC has been able to double its annual budget and expand vital services in New York and to states throughout the country.

This week, DHC’s Chair of Federal Government Relations, Jonathan McCollum, and Associate Director of Federal Affairs, Jake Roach coordinated meetings for HKNC on Capitol Hill.

The group had an opportunity to meet with U.S. Congressman Tom Suozzi, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Congressman Andrew Garbarino, Congresswoman Grace Meng, Congressman Robert Aderholt, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, and others to discuss HKNC FY25 Appropriations Request.

Congressman Suozzi had been one of HKNC’s biggest champions on Capitol Hill, helping the organization increase its annual federal appropriation from $8 million to $19 million over the last six years.