Somerset, NJ - Oticon, Inc. is seeking nominations for the 2003 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 By recognizing the achievements of hearing impaired individuals, the awards program aims to change outdated stereotypes of what it means to live with hearing loss - stereotypes that often prevent people from seeking professional help.
To date, the national 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
- Practitioner, a special award for hearing care professionals who are currently in practice.
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.
To complete an application, please visit www.oticonus.com. The deadline for award nominations is February 24, 2003.
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