Bethesda, MD - The Hearing Loss Association of America® is pleased to announce its line-up of 2012 spring and fall Walks in 21 cities across the country. The Walk4Hearing experienced growth for the sixth straight year and surpassed its 2011 fundraising goal of $1.2 million.
Hearing loss is a leading public health concern with 36 million adults reporting some degree of hearing loss, yet most people go untreated. The Walk4Hearing increases awareness about hearing loss, minimizes the stigma associated with it, and raises funds to expand services and programs.
Mike Orscheln, president and CEO of Phonak, is the 2012 National Business Chair. Orscheln stated, "Two years as the Chicago Business Chair and last year taking on national responsibilities has given me an even stronger commitment to help this event become more successful. The dynamics that are occurring in our industry make the collaboration among industry, hearing health professionals and consumers more critical than ever. Let's make 2012 the biggest and best year ever for the Walk4Hearing!"
National sponsors of the 2012 Walk4Hearing include: AARP, MED-EL, T-Mobile, Advanced Bionics, Cochlear Americas and Phonak.
Director of the Walk4Hearing, Ronnie Adler, commented that dedicated volunteers helped realize a 25% increase in the number of teams and walkers, making the Walk4Hearing the largest walk event for people with hearing loss. There was also an increase in the number of alliance groups which are participants from schools, hearing loss-related organizations, and others that share the proceeds.
Along with Ronnie Adler, Rebecca Lander serves as the National Walk4Hearing Coordinator. Suzanne D'Amico, a veteran of the New York City Walk, joins HLAA as the Northeast Region Coordinator, effective February 1, 2012.
About the Hearing Loss Association of America
The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) opens the world of communication to people with hearing loss through information, education, advocacy and support. In addition to the Walk4Hearing, HLAA publishes Hearing Loss Magazine, holds annual conventions (Convention 2012 is in Providence, RI, June 21 - 24), and chapters and state organizations. The headquarters is located at 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 1200, Bethesda, MD 20814. Phone: 301.657.2248.
