Call for Nominations for 2002 Awards Program
SOMERSET, NJ - Oticon, Inc., a leading manufacturer of hearing instruments, is seeking nominations for the 2002 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 By recognizing the achievements of hearing impaired individuals, the awards program aims to change outdated stereotypes of what it means to have a hearing loss - stereotypes that often prevent people from seeking professional help.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," stated Oticon President Mikael Worning. "The reality is that, with the proper hearing amplification, individuals with hearing loss can lead active, fulfilling personal and professional lives."
Today, even with the significant advances in hearing aid technology, outdated stereotypes about hearing loss persist. It is estimated that, because of these misconceptions, 80 percent of people who would benefit from advances in hearing instruments hesitate to seek help.
To date, the national awards program has awarded over $100,000 to outstanding hard of hearing individuals. This year, awards are offered in five 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; Advocacy, for individuals of all ages who are actively involved in advocacy or support efforts for the hard-of-hearing and deaf community; and Practitioner, a special award for hearing care professionals who are currently in practice.
Winning nominations will be announced at the 2002 American Academy of Audiologists Convention in April.
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 $500 and third place winners will receive $250. 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.
Copies of nomination forms can be downloaded from 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 March 15, 2002.
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