About iHear Program
A student-led initiative dedicated to promoting inclusive communication and supporting students with hearing loss and communication needs.
Our Mission
The mission of iHear is to promote inclusive communication by providing free, individualized communication support for students with hearing or communication needs. iHear also works to raise awareness of hearing health by hosting educational seminars to engage the broader community. Through direct student support and community education, iHear aims to reduce communication barriers and promote more inclusive learning environments.
Our Journey
June 2024
Pilot Phase Begins
Zoe Lu began providing individualized English communication support to two children with cochlear implants, referred through Chi-Mei Medical Center.
November 2024
Partnership with Fu-Lian Foundation
Howard Ren joined as Co-President. Partnership with Fu-Lian Hearing Health Foundation expanded reach to 13 additional students.
December 2024
Affiliation with CAPA-MC
iHear officially approved as a program under CAPA-MC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, providing formal structure and seed funding.
June 2025
Official Kick-off Meeting
Formal launch bringing together volunteer mentors and leadership to establish mission and advocacy goals.
September 2025
Community Outreach Begins
First hearing wellness seminar at senior center. Monthly tutor training workshops launched.
October 2025
MBHS Chapter & Team Lead System
Established chapter at Montgomery Blair High School. Implemented Team Lead system and reflection forms for quality management.
November 2025
AAHI Grant Awarded
Received funding from AAHI Grant from Montgomery County awarded to CAPA-MC (iHear for senior health) to support community outreach related activities on hearing health.
December 2025
Milestone: 36 Volunteers, 40+ Students
Reached 36 active volunteers from 6+ high schools supporting over 40 students, with 600+ communication sessions provided.
Our Organization
Leadership
- • 1 Founder, 2 Co-Presidents
- 2 Co-Directors of Curriculum and Tutoring Training
- • 6 Team Leads
- • Program Leadership (merit-based, to be selected)
Volunteers
- • 36 active tutors (grades 8-12)
- • Monthly training workshops
- • SSL hours awarded
Partnerships
- • CAPA-MC (fiscal sponsor)
- • Fu-Lian Hearing Foundation
- • Chi-Mei Medical Center
- • Local senior centers and assisted living residence
Funding & Support
iHear operates through a combination of sources such as grant funding, seed funding from CAPA-MC, donation, and in-kind support. Our fiscal sponsorship model allows us to focus resources on program delivery rather than administrative overhead.