Signing Resources & Interpreters

Kelly Johnson Owner

8002 NE Highway 99 #B-705 Vancouver, WA, 98665
877-512-2246 877-512-2246 Kelly@signingresources.com
Kelly Johnson Owner
(on printed copy)
Table of Contents

OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................... 1
REFERENCES ............................................................................................................. 2
ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY ............................................................................... 3
TOOLS
DATABASE
Overview............................................................................................................................................ 5
Features ............................................................................................................................................ 5
Stored Information ............................................................................................................................. 6
Request Information .......................................................................................................................... 7
Customer Information ........................................................................................................................ 8
Customer Settings .............................................................................................................................. 9
Customer Pricing ............................................................................................................................ 10
Interpreter Information ............................................................................................................... 11-12
Deaf Client Preferences ................................................................................................................... 13
WEBSITE .......................................................................................................................................... 14
HOURS ............................................................................................................................................. 14
PHONE SYSTEMS ............................................................................................................................ 14
PROCESS
Receiving Requests .......................................................................................................................... 15
Accessing Requests .......................................................................................................................... 16
Entering into Database ............................................................................................................. 17-19
Page-Outs ...................................................................................................................................... 20
Assigning an Interpreter.................................................................................................................. 21
Confirmations ................................................................................................................................. 21
Confirmation Example ................................................................................................................... 22
Reminders ...................................................................................................................................... 23
Service ............................................................................................................................................ 23
Example Assignment Form ........................................................................................................... 24
Billing ............................................................................................................................................ 25
Cancellations .................................................................................................................................. 26
Invoice Example ............................................................................................................................. 27
Interpreter Accounting .................................................................................................................... 28
Interpreter Web Access ................................................................................................................... 29
KEY PERSONS ........................................................................................................... 30
RESUMES .................................................................................................................................... 31-34
PROJECT IMPLIMENTATION PLAN
INTERPRETERS ................................................................................................................................ 35
OUTREACH ...................................................................................................................................... 36
RATE STRUCTURE .................................................................................................. 37
CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................... 38
1 | Page
Overview

Signing Resources & Interpreters (SRI) has been providing sign language interpreter referral
and information services since 1998. Because we are Deaf owned, we are committed to offering
services at the highest quality possible.

We would like to provide some information that appears on every independent contractor
agreement in order to give you insight into the type of service we strive to provide, as well as our
corporate culture.

The mission of signing Resources & Interpreters is to provide excellent interpreting
services with the heart of a servant (Charles Swindoll defines a true servant as one with these
characteristics: transparent humanity, genuine humility, and absolute honesty)

In order to accomplish this goal, our contracted interpreters are evaluated by our
management under an extremely high level of scrutiny. These evaluations set us apart from other
agencies which routinely use subcontractors hired sight unseen. Our highly qualified interpreters are
proud of the unmatched reputation that we have built, and because of this, they are often willing to
accept jobs through us that they may decline through another agency. This esteem has played a
major role in our job fill rate, which at 98%, including 24 hour emergency calls, is the highest in the
area.

Signing Resources & Interpreters has invested a great deal of time, effort and expense to
ensure customers receive the highest quality service. Being Deaf, we understand the importance of
ensuring that communication is not a barrier. We understand how important it is to have easy access
to these services. We have built a reputation through time for being easy to work with, being clear
and concise with our communications, and being prompt with our actions. We have made it easy for
Deaf and Hard of Hearing clients to contact and interact with us as well, either through our video
phone service, or through our website and email.

Our database is specifically designed for the services we provide. Agencies that also provide
spoken language interpreters do not have the capability to do what our database can do. Our
database software is able to hold and use information about our hearing customers, and deaf clients
alike, to ensure that the interpreter being sent to a job is the most qualified person available for that
specific job.

American Sign Language (ASL) is not like spoken languages. In fact, the underlying reason
for hiring an ASL interpreter is entirely different than that of hiring a spoken language interpreter.
As an ASL only agency, we know what our consumers need, how to meet ADA requirements, and
are better suited to help answer questions from staff who might be new to making a request. Being
Deaf owned, we have a clear and practical communication with the Deaf community. Our clients
and consumers feel comfortable contacting us with any questions or concerns they have.

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3 | Page
Organizational Capacity / History

Signing Resources & Interpreters (SRI) has several contracts already established with major
companies and organizations throughout the northwest. These include state, county, and municipal
agencies. Some examples of these are Legacy Health, the Oregon State Employment Department,
and the Oregon Office of Administrative Hearings. We have filled 15,157 interpreter requests in the
4 years since the updated database has been keeping track.


Our services go beyond live interpreters, CART services, and assisted listening devices. We
pride ourselves on being the absolute one stop shopping for any and every question related to
communication access for the Deaf and hard of hearing. Our staff has a history of being
knowledgeable and available. We provide workshops and assessments for our customers who
benefit from having staff understand the process of requesting and using interpreters.

For example, SRI recently completed an assessment for Legacy Health which gave their staff
from many different departments suggestions on ways to make scheduling appointments with Deaf
or hard of hearing patients easier. Some of these suggestions were implemented shortly after.
Hospital staff is now asking Deaf or hard of hearing patients if they would like to add a video phone
number to their file so that staff can contact them directly for appointment reminders or provider
cancellations. This seemingly small step will make a huge difference in the hospital staffs ability to
contact patients with appointment information.

Another example is the free workshops that SRI provides first responders. In these
workshops, we give police officers and fire fighters information about ways to communicate quickly
in emergency situations, until an interpreter can arrive.

Because Signing Resources & Interpreters is Deaf owned, and has many close ties to the
deaf community, we provide these workshops and assessments for free. Our agencys highest
priority is to serve the Deaf community.


0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
2010 1011 2012 2013
Interpreter Requests
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Tools

Database - Overview

Four years ago, the number of interpreter requests that we were handling became too great
for the outdated database system that was in place. We worked closely with a software developing
company to design and build a brand-new database that could accommodate any growth that we
could have in the future. We invested over $12,000 on having a new, highly functional software
program designed specifically for us. This database has not only proven to be extremely functional,
but also very reliable. Over the years, we have established a very good relationship with the
developers who have acquired an understanding of exactly what we do, and how we operate. They
have continued to help us modify the database as we come up with new, innovative ideas for making
it easier and faster for clients to order services.

The database generates reports, links to email for sending confirmations and reminders, and
stores data about requests. Having a unique database that is already up and running will allow us a
quick and easy transition between your system and ours, without disrupting services to your current
clients.



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Database - Features



Hardware
Runs on secure servers and can be accessed
remotely.
Runs on Mac and Windows

Request Management
Custom designed for Deaf services
Preference alerts assist assigning
interpreters
Cancellations can be marked billable or
non-billable
Rates are customized for customers and
interpreters
Repeating requests are easily created and
edited as a group
Searches requests using multiple criteria
Sends reminders, forms, and confirmations
automatically

Interpreter Management
Shows possible schedule conflicts
Uses interpreter settings for group paging
Holds contract information settings

Customer Management
Manages job and billing locations
Tracks service agreements
Sends contract notifications and tracking
info

Deaf / hard of hearing client
Management
Stores client preferences
Sends optional client notifications

Accounting
Automatically creates invoice line items
Calculates travel expenses, time
and mileage

Online Interpreter Resources
Integrates with Google Calendar
Provides secure interpreter web site

Other Features
HIPAA compliant
Custom Reports



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Database Stored Information




General request information
Date and time
Request type
Setting
Number of interpreters needed
Devices or other services needed
History of email communications
Digital copies of signed assignment forms
Accounting considerations

Customer information
Service locations
On-site contact information
Interpreter preferences
Billing address
Billing contact
Rates
Special needs
Contact methods
Contract information



Deaf / hard of hearing client information
Name
Address*
Video phone number*
TTY number*
Email address*
Language notes
Interpreter preferences
* Optional, and only used if the Deaf or
hard of hearing client gives us the
information and consent to use it.

Interpreter information
Name
Address
Contact information
Pay rates
Client preferences
Certification level
Availability
History of email communications
Contract information
Assignment preferences














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General Request Information

A very well organized and easy to understand home page keeps all information easily
accessible.








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Customer Information - General


Category tabs makes navigation through the database efficient and thorough. All customer
information; location, contact person, billing rates, and all other relevant details can be accessed
easily.

















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Customer Information - Settings
















10 | Page
Customer Information - Pricing




















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Interpreter Information


Detailed and current information regarding contracted interpreters is vital in order to
provide quality services. Information stored here is updated on regular bases, insuring accuracy in
record keeping, as well as maintaining high standards of services offered.















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Interpreter Information




















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Deaf Client Preference


In keeping with our commitment to serve the Deaf community, Deaf clients preferences are
taken into consideration.







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Website

Due to the growing number of people searching for services online, or looking for resources
on our website, last year we decided to undergo a complete renovation of our website. The new
website is nearing completion, and will be completely functional and operating by the end of May.
Until then, an older version of our website is in place online to give direction to people looking for
services. The new website is in its final stages of editing, and all of its functionality is already
complete. Some important features the new website includes are:

An online form for Deaf and hard of hearing clients to make suggestions and
comments about services, as well as express preference for interpreters.
Quick and easy access for interpreters, and for customers to log in and view
upcoming and past appointments.
Well organized information about ADA laws and how they apply to our services.
A simple one-step form for requesting services.

Hours

As part of our commitment to being accessible, we provide 24hr customer service, and can
quickly respond to any emergency situation. We routinely send interpreters in emergency situations
to aid police departments, fire departments, and hospital emergency rooms. We have interpreters
on-call 24/7 for such emergencies. The ability to provide 24 hour customer service has established a
sense of trust, among our hearing and Deaf clients alike. Businesses who use our services know that
they will be able to speak to a knowledgeable scheduler at any time, day or night.


Phone System

Our sophisticated phone system is internet based, and allows us full functionality quickly
from anyplace in our office. Our secure fax system is part of this as well. When faxes are sent to us,
they come electronically as a secure and private email. This means that no paperwork is left lying on
a machine. We go to great lengths to ensure that every communication, from the original phone call
or email requesting services, to the direct deposit system we use to pay interpreters, is confidential.
In an industry where so much personal information is handled, its important to maintain very high
confidentially standards. All of our electronic systems are HIPAA compliant, and we also have in-
office rules that we follow regarding computer accounts, and properly shedding any paperwork
necessary.

We also monitor two separate video phones which are answered by our deaf staff. This
allows our Deaf or hard of hearing consumers to easily contact us, and communicate comfortably in
ASL.


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Process

Receiving Requests

Requests for service can be given to us in one of three ways:

1. Phone:
Our toll free number is answered 24/7. Requests can be made anytime
over the phone.
2. E-mail:
A dedicated email account, Request@SigningResources.com is
monitored 8:00am 6:00pm on weekdays. These requests are received
real-time, and a confirmation of receipt of an email is sent.
3. Website:
Our website contains a form that can be filled out online, and submitted.
A copy of this form is sent to the request email address. This system is
immediate also. A confirmation of receipt email will also be sent when a
request is received through the website.

Through any one of these systems, the information we collect is important to making a
proper assessment of the needs of the request. This information includes:

1. Customer:
Each customer has a separate account in the database. This account
holds contact and billing information as well as information about each
of the locations we have provided service to.
2. Location:
The location of each request is saved in the database as well. Our
customers often need services at different locations. Our database holds
information about each specific location, including an on-site contact,
address, and notes about how to find buildings or rooms on site.

3. Person Placing Request (Requester):
It is important to have the name and contact information for the specific
person placing each request. This makes it easier to contact them if we
have questions while assessing the request, or need to make changes later.

4. Date and Time:
Our database makes entering the date and time of any request fast and
accurate. As you enter the date and time, the database automatically
generates a total length of the request, this makes mistakes very
uncommon, and easy to catch.
Continued on next page


16 | Page

5. Deaf Client:
Knowing who the consumers will be allows us to make better decisions
about the services provided. Each Deaf or hard of hearing client has an
account in our database which we use to store relevant information about
their needs and preferences. Our database will automatically take
interpreters off of page-out lists if the Client has asked us not to send a
specific interpreter. This ensures that Deaf clients are not forced to work
with an interpreter that they dont easily understand.

6. Type of Request:
We provide an array of services, live interpreters, CART services, CDIs,
assisted listening devices, etc. Because of this, we need to know the
nature of the request, and the situation it will be used in. For example, is
this an emergency, a classroom setting, or a platform presentation?

7. Other information:
Our staffs experience with interpreting and with the needs of the
consumers gives them the ability to recognize when more information is
needed. This information helps us assess the needs of the hearing, Deaf,
or hard of hearing client. There is not a one size fits all request. Each
unique situation requires an experts perspective to understand and offer
advice.

Assessing Requests

Once a request is received, our staff assesses the request. If any information is missing or
incomplete, we will contact the requester promptly and work with them to build a better picture of
what the needs of the client are. Our staff is experienced, and capable of making suggestions about
ways to accommodate better communication, and ways to utilize resources more efficiently. Is it a
sensitive medical situation? Is a male or female interpreter needed? Also, what qualifications and
certifications will the interpreter need to have?

Because we already work so closely with the Deaf community throughout the state, our
database already holds information that would be useful for this contract. For example, any Deaf
client who has used our services in the past has an account set up in our database. These accounts
hold information regarding their interpreter preferences, the style of language they use, and other
information that might help us assess their needs. We currently have this data stored for hundreds of
Deaf and hard of hearing clients in Oregon.






17 | Page
Database Entry

After we feel we have all pertinent information, and have properly assessed a request, we will
then begin entering the information into our database. As soon as we begin the process of entering
the request into the database, a request ID number is generated. This is a unique number that will
follow the request from this point, all the way through billing and payment. At no time during the
process, even if the time or date is changed on a request, will this number change. This allows us to
track each job completely, to track any changes made to a request, and also to create very accurate
reporting.



18 | Page





19 | Page






















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Paging out requests

After we have entered a request into the database, we begin looking for an interpreter to fill
the request. All information about interpreters is saved in the database. This includes their
preference in jobs, their certification level, their location, their availability schedule, and also links to
the Deaf or hard of hearing clients who prefer or reject them. We can use this information to
generate a list of interpreters based on very specific criteria. For example, we can select to find all
female interpreters within 25 miles of the request location, that are legal certified (SC:L), while
automatically excluding interpreters who the client has disliked in the past, and who are unavailable
during the appointment time.

Using a generated list of interpreters who we feel are suitable for the request, we are then
one click away from sending a page-out to all of the interpreters on the generated list, or any number
of specific interpreters individually.

This page out will go to either a phone as a text message, an email address as an email, or
both, depending on how each interpreter has asked to receive page outs. These messages contain
general information about the time, date, location, and nature of the request. They do not contain
confidential information such as client names. Interpreters can reply directly to a page out if they are
available and willing to do the job.




21 | Page
Assigning an interpreter

All responses to page-outs are replied to immediately. Interpreters dont like to hold their
time if a job is already filled, so we are very careful to let them know right away if they will be sent a
confirmation, or if the job is already filled. As we get replies to the page outs we make a decision on
who would be the best fit, and we assign an interpreter to the request.


Confirmations

At the same time the request is filled, the database brings up an option for sending
confirmations. We send a confirmation to both the interpreter and the customer at the same time.
This ensures that information is the same, and if any mistakes are made, they can be caught
immediately.

o The confirmation sent to the interpreter contains all information about the job,
except confidential information such as names. There is a link at the bottom of the
confirmation to the personal login site for the interpreters. By logging in to the
secure site, they can access more information about the jobs they have been assigned
to, including client names. Also, the confirmation to the interpreter contains a form
for the job as an attachment. This form is used on the day of the job to record the
exact time the interpreter was actually working, and notes about the job. We use this
later for billing.
o The confirmations sent to the customer contain the name of the interpreter, and
basic information about the request. This confirmation is a single page format that is
easy to read and understand, and clearly states the request ID number at the top, for
reference if there are any questions.

Once the request confirmations have been sent to the customer and the interpreter, a
request is automatically marked as filled in the database. Generally requests are filled, and
confirmation is sent on the business day following the day they are requested.















22 | Page
Example of a Confirmation sent to an Interpreter









23 | Page
Reminders

The day before a job takes place, a reminder is automatically generated and sent to the
interpreter. This eliminates a lot of confusion, and gives them another chance to catch mistakes in
their schedules, or mistakes with the request. A reminder can also be sent to the Deaf or hard of
hearing client if he/she has opted to do so in the past. Many of our Deaf and hard of hearing clients
have opted into this system which sends reminders to them for any type of appointment that we
have scheduled interpreters with them for. To help ease privacy concerns, neither of these
reminders, either to the client or to the interpreter, contains any more information than request
number, location, date, and time. The Deaf and hard of hearing population have given us great
praise over this system, as it gives them reminders for doctor visits, meetings, classes, and any
number of other appointments that they generally dont get reminders for due to the
communication barrier.



Service

When an assignment is completed, the interpreter will fill out the assignment form which
was sent to them as an attachment to the confirmation email. They will then collect a signature from
the customer on the assignment form from someone authorized to attest to the actual start and end
times of the service provided. Interpreters are encouraged to add notes that might help make similar
requests easier in the future. The interpreter will also notify the hearing, Deaf, or hard of hearing
clients that they are welcome to contact us with any comments.
The interpreter then sends the signed form to us by mail, email, or fax. Our database
automatically generates reminders to return forms every 5 days if we have not received them.

















24 | Page
Example of an Assignment Form






25 | Page
Accounting/Billing

Once an assignment form has been received, our accounting staff inputs the new
information into the database. The actual start and end time are added, along with any notes about
the job that were left by the interpreter. The database automatically calculates the total billing
amount, and the amount to be paid to the interpreter. The accounting staff looks over the job,
makes sure that all of the figures are correct, and then transfers them into an invoice to be sent to
the customer. Because of our experience with contracting and billing a large variety of government
agencies, no major billing changes would need to be made.














26 | Page
Cancellations

Cancellation policies have been established with all customers to ensure accuracy in billing.
The database uses these settings to calculate invoices.








27 | Page
Invoice Example




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Interpreter accounting

Each of our contracted interpreters is given a login to their own account inside the database.
They can login to view information about only their past and future appointments. They can also
opt to have their schedule integrated with a google account, which will allow all of their assignments
to be integrated into Google Calendar. After a job is complete, and we have corrected start and end
times for each job, a checkbox will appear next each of the completed jobs in their account. At this
point the interpreter can check the amount that they are going to be paid for the job, and check off
that they agree to the total. By checking off a job, and clicking a submit button, an invoice is
automatically created and sent to us for payment. Any invoices we receive by the 15
th
of the month
are paid at the end of the month. This system is laid out in our interpreter service agreement, and,
deadlines are negotiated separately with each interpreter.











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Interpreter web access










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Key Persons


Signing Resources & Interpreters has an experienced staff which includes both Deaf, and
hearing members. We understand the needs of the consumer. Our skilled team has experience in
many different areas relating to Deaf and hard of hearing services.

We also understand the business of providing interpreting services. As certified interpreters
ourselves, we are able to ensure the best service possible, and we have the knowledge it takes to
fulfill uncommon needs. This is something you will not find in a one-size-fits-all language agency.

Our expertise would be a valuable asset to this contract.



Joye McCormick, Hearing Page 32
Service Coordinator

John Burke, Deaf Page 33
Outreach/Service Coordinator

Heidi Thornton, Hearing Page 34
Interpreter Coordinator

Karen Wales, Hearing Page 35
Scheduler

Belle Johnson, Deaf
Accounting, Scheduling











35 | Page
Project Implementation Plan


Interpreters

Signing Resources & Interpreters currently holds contracts with 293 freelance sign language
interpreters. These interpreters are located throughout Oregon State, with a higher
concentration of them in the Portland area. We have active interpreters in all of the major cities
in Oregon: Medford, Salem, Eugene, Portland and Bend.

Our interpreter contracts specifically outline our core values, ethical standards, and
expectations. Because we are Deaf owned, our goals never waver. Our interpreters are held to
very strict standards for being on time, having a good attitude, and being skillful. Our staff is
always available and eager to hear comments from consumers about their experiences. Each
compliment and complaint is noted in the database, and dealt with on a personal basis with the
interpreter. Our interpreters are proud to take jobs through us because they know that their
professional peers are held to the same high standards they are.

We implement a system of interviews, competency tests, and background checks with all
interpreters before contracting with them. We may also require medical exams, and
fingerprinting, depending on the nature of assignments that an interpreter would like to take.
For example, all interpreters who would like to receive pageouts for medical appointments must
have a current tuberculosis test one file. Our database holds information about all requirements,
and sends reminders when something is soon to expire.

Our interview process is always face to face, this sets us apart from most other agencies who
hire interpreters sight unseen. Our Deaf staff members conduct interpreter interviews.
Conducting these interviews in ASL, rather than in English, gives us a chance to assess the
interpreters sign language skills. All interviews are rated and scored. This score is held inside the
database, and is used for suitability purposes when assigning jobs.

Unlike other agencies, if we are unable to fill a request, we pursue help from other agencies
that may have available interpreters. We currently work closely with other agencies to ensure that
all requests are filled. Our request fill rates have been above 98% in each of the four years since
our database has been calculating them, and our four-year average is over 98.5%. Without help
from other agencies we fill 96% of requests. The other 2.5% of our jobs are sub-contracted
through other agencies, and are easily accounted for inside the database as well. Information
about interpreters that are contracted through other agencies is also held in our database, as we
hold them to the same standards of keeping information up to date. No interpreter, either
contacted directly by us, or sent through an agency we contract with, is ever sent to a job until
we have their certification records and background check on file.


36 | Page

Outreach

As our name implies, Signing Resources & Interpreters is more than just an interpreter
referral agency. We work very close to the local Deaf and hard of hearing community, and have
become a resource for them, along with businesses in the community who might be looking for
information. We believe strongly in supporting the community that makes our business possible.
An example of this is our support for businesses who hire Deaf or hard of hearing employees;
we offer discounted rates for interpreting job interviews and new employee orientations. Our
goal is to make it easier for businesses to hire Deaf and hard of hearing employees.

As an agency, Signing Resources & Interpreters is a member of many Deaf and hard of
hearing organizations. We offer service to these organizations at every chance possible. We
provide self-advocacy workshops, mentoring and intern programs, and a variety of other
community resources. We also coordinate fundraisers for these organizations by hosting golf
tournaments, holiday parties, bowling tournaments, and other activities. We sponsor all of these
fundraisers by donating the time and resources to plan and host the events.

Signing Resources & Interpreters provides outreach to Deaf and hard of hearing far beyond
that of most agencies. We are proud of our reputation for being accessible.






















37 | Page
Rate Structure


Services Price / Unit Mileage @ $.56 / Mi Min.
Sign Language Interpreter $65.00 / hr Yes 1 / hr
Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) $65.00 / hr Yes 1 / hr
Tactile Interpreter $70.00 / hr Yes 1 / hr
Oral Interpreter $65.00 / hr Yes 1 / hr
Computer-Assisted Real-Time Captioning $125.00 / hr Yes 1 / hr
Assistive Listening Devices (small setting) $50.00 / Event No N/A
Assistive Listening Devices (large setting) $100.00 / Event No N/A
Assistive Listening Devices Setup $40.00 / hr Yes 1 / hr


We charge a one-hour minimum and then by the half-hour. Interpreters are required to stay
only for the time originally booked. However, interpreters may be available for work beyond
the requested time. If an appointment goes over by more than five minutes, we charge for
the next half-hour.

Assisted listening devices are charged per event, for events lasting up to 7 days. This
includes all devices necessary to assist 10 people at a time. Specific instructions for
use are included with the device, and free help will be offered over the phone or
through email. If extra help is needed on-site with setting up, setup rates listed in the
rate chart above may apply.

Cancellation Policy

After we confirm an interpreter for a request, we will send the requestor a confirmation,
either by email, fax, or a phone call. If you cancel all or part of the appointment after it is confirmed,
but less than 24 hours prior to the appointment, you will be charged for the entire appointment.

Budget Narrative

Signing Resources & Interpreters currently provides services very similar to the services
described in the RFP. No major changes would be needed in our infrastructure, organization, or
processes. The rates we are able to offer reflect our expense of increased staffing hours, extra
supplies, and travel expenses. Rates paid to the contracted interpreters vary depending on
certification level. These rates are generally $45.00 - $55.00/hr. + $.56/mi. An average rate of
$50.00/hr + .56 / mi. was used in the calculation to determine the rates available to the consumer.




38 | Page
Conclusion

Signing Resources & Interpreters has been providing services to the Deaf and hard of
hearing community for many years. We understand the needs and desires of this community. We
also understand the businesses and agencies that depend on our services for communication. We are
available to help navigate ADA laws as they apply to the services needed.

Section 1.2. of the RFP states:

This system includes more than just scheduling for services, it
includes coordination to ensure effective communication occurs with all
Governmental Entities and their employees and consumers with Deafness,
Hearing Loss, or who are late-deafened.

In order to properly serve the Deaf and hard of hearing community, this contract should be
awarded to an agency which meets these needs specifically. Signing Resources & Interpreters already
has the resources and equipment in place to take over the responsibilities of this contract.

We also believe that communication between the scheduling agency and the consumer is
important. Agencies which do not specialize in Deaf and hard of hearing services do not have the
means of accessibility that are inherent with this type of work. Our office staff monitors two
separate video phones, which gives our Deaf or hard of hearing consumers the ability to
communicate with us in their natural language. We feel strongly that in order to serve the
community properly, these types of access measures must be not only available, but practiced.

Another major aspect of our proposal is our unique database. We have built a very good
relationship with the team that designed the database software specifically for us. This software gives
us two very important and distinct advantages over other agencies, the timeframe for readiness, and
lower costs associated with setup.

Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to working with DHS to ensure a
quick and seamless transition.

Sincerely,


Belle Johnson, Deaf
Accountant, Co-Owner

Signing Resources & Interpreters
(877) 512-2246
Belle@signingresources.com
8002 NE Highway 99, #B-705 / Vancouver, WA / 98665