HLAA-Capital District was initially started as Hearing Endeavor for the Albany Region (HEAR), a nonprofit, volunteer organization, in 1983. HEAR became a chapter of the national organization, Self-Help for Hard of Hearing People, and when that organization changed its name to Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), the HEAR chapter changed its name to HLAA Albany Chapter. In 2026 we further updated our name to HLAA Capital District Chapter . We are open to anyone in the Capital District Area.
We hold evening in person meetings several times a year on the 3rd Tuesday of the month and are working on having virtual meetings available soon. Meetings are posted on our home page under Events and on our Face Book Page HLAA Albany. Follow us to stay up to date.
Our meetings include educational sessions with varied topics of interest. We have HOPE sessions, “Hear other peoples experiences”, where we share tips, ideas, technology and connection. “Ask the Audiologist” sessions for questions and answers regarding hearing loss and accessible technology. We also hold social events several times a year to connect and make new friends.
Meetings are open to the public and hearing accessible with an FM assistive listening system. If you would like to attend a meeting and require special accommodations please contact us. Come and Learn what the HLAA is all about and become part of our hearing loss community.
Hear what our members are saying:
Dr. Donna Wayner, Ph.D. Founding Member and Past Professional Resource.
“So many gave so much to keep our efforts alive over the years. It pleases me greatly that after a slow down from the Covid Pandemic, new people with renewed energy are continuing to make hearing loss an issue of regional concern. It is such a necessary outreach effort.”
Dr. Wayner Holds advanced degrees in Audiology from Northwestern University and Interpersonal Communication from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Served as The Director of The Hearing Rehabilitation Center (HRC) at Albany Medical Center in 1981 where she initiated a Hearing Aid Orientation program during the 30 day hearing aid trial. Started an informational outreach effort called “ACCESS 2000” with subgroups working to educate theaters, churches, fire and health services of the specific needs of people with hearing loss and the available assistive technology available to help. This program became a national model.
Author of several books; “Learning to Hear Again: An Audiologic Rehabilitation Guide”, “Learning to Hear Again with a Cochlear Implant”, “Better Communication and Cochlear Implants: A Personal Journal”, “Better Communication and Cochlear Implants; A User’s Guide”, “Better Communication and Hearing Aids: A Guide to Hearing Aid Use”, “Volviendo a Oir”, “Hearing and Learning: A Guide to Helping Children”, “Voices from a Quieter Land: Insights Into the Impact of Hearing Impairment”, “Fingertip Facts – What Every SLP Needs: Knowledge about Hearing” and “Hear What You’re Been Missing”. Additionally, I shared our methods and experiences lecturing around the world.
Dr. Debra Trees, Aud. Professional Resource
“I appreciate HLAA Capital District as we continue to be a presence of advocacy and information to our communities in the expansive regions around Albany, Rensselaer, Schenectady, Saratoga and other counties in Upstate NY. Thank you for being here, HLAA Capital District. The work we do is important.”
Dr Trees was audiology supervisor at St. Peter’s Hospital for 34 years and now in my private practice, Debra Trees Audiology.
Ellen Rupert. Member since 1985. Past President and Vice President.
“Ive learned so much and met so many wonderful people.”
Janet Mattox. Member since 1985. Past President and Vice President.
“I have met some wonderful people through hearing loss. They have allowed me to move ahead with my life.”
Kerry Meehan. Member since 2024. Current President.
“HLAA changed my life. The members, and everyone I have met, all the information and support I’ve gained over the years has been invaluable to my hearing loss journey.”
Margaret Litwin. Member since 2102. Current Board Member.
“As a person with chronic Ménière’s Disease, hearing aid user, and health care provider, I found HLAA via a local announcement about teaching the use of a telecoil. From that sound-awakening evening onward, I have benefited immensely from gaining up to date information, networking with others with hearing loss, making friends and passing forward that support.”
Grady Aronstamm. Member since 1990. Current Vice President.
“I Enjoy helping others get the most benefit from Hearing Aids, Cochlear Implants and Assistive devices. My real passion is for acceptance of our disability financially and in social situations.”