SOMERSET, NJ - Oticon, Inc., a leading manufacturer of hearing instruments, is seeking nominations for the 2001 Oticon Focus on People Awards. Created in 1998, the national awards program honors individuals with mild, moderate or severe hearing loss, who demonstrate through their accomplishments that hearing loss does not limit a person's ability to make a difference in their families, communities and the world. By recognizing the achievements of outstanding hearing impaired individuals, the awards program aims to change outdated stereotypes of what it means to have a hearing loss - stereotypes that often prevent people from seeking professional help.
"We created the awards program in the belief that all of us benefit when the public develops a more positive and encouraging perception of hearing loss. Today, even with the significant advances in hearing aid technology, outdated stereotypes about hearing loss persist," stated Oticon President Mikael Worning. "Because of these misconceptions, 80 percent of people who would benefit from advances in hearing instruments hesitate to seek help. The reality is that, with the proper hearing amplification, individuals with hearing loss can lead active, fulfilling personal and professional lives."
This year, Oticon will offer awards to individuals with mild, moderate or severe hearing loss in four categories: Youth, for children ages 5 - 12; Student, for young people ages 13 - 25 who are full-time students; Adults, for those over the age of 18; and Advocacy, for individuals of all ages who are actively involved in volunteer and support efforts for the hard-of-hearing and deaf community. Practitioner, a special award is offered to hearing care professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of people with hearing loss.
Winning nominations will be announced at the 2001 American Academy of Audiologists Convention in the spring. First place category winners will receive a $1,000 award and a $1,000 donation by Oticon to a not-for-profit cause of their choice. Second place winners will receive $250 and third place winners will receive $100. All nominees, regardless of whether they are selected as category winners, will receive a Certificate of Recognition.
Anyone may nominate themselves or another individual with a hearing loss for the Oticon Focus on People Awards. Nominators complete a simple form that asks for a brief description of the nominee's accomplishments that distinguish them as role models for all - but especially for others who struggle to overcome the stigma of hearing loss.
Nomination forms are available on Oticon's website at www.oticonus.com. Forms may also be obtained by phoning Oticon at 800-526-3921 or by sending a postcard with your name and address to: Oticon Focus on People Awards, c/o Melissa Alfonso, Oticon Inc., 29 Schoolhouse Road, Somerset, NJ 08873. Deadline for award nominations is February 15, 2001.
Established in 1904, Oticon is one of the world's most experienced hearing aid manufacturers. A pioneer in digital technology, Oticon introduced the first ear-level fully digital hearing instrument in 1996. Oticon, Inc. is committed to improving the quality of life for those with hearing loss, through research, technological advancement and a focus on patient requirements.
For more information on Oticon click here.
Click here to visit the Oticon website.
