Experience the fascinating journey of hearing health through an interactive blend of art, science, and technology.
Join us this May for Better Hearing and Communication Month at Prince George Public Library.
What is 'The Way We Hear It!?
Discover interactive stations designed for all ages, covering everything from the auditory pathway and hearing protection to inspiring stories from the Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing community.
Key Features:
- Interactive auditory system exploration.
- Artistic interpretations of sound.
- Practical hearing protection demonstrations.
- Insightful understanding of hearing loss.
- Hands-on experience with hearing and assistive devices.
- Inspirational stories from individuals living with hearing loss.
- ASL storytelling and Introduction to American Sign Language (ASL).
“Lachlan and I really enjoyed exploring the “Way We Hear It!” exhibit. The love and passion that went into this interactive experience is so evident! Thank you for bringing awareness and inclusion to those who experience hearing loss in our community!
– Courtney and Lachlan O’Farrell, community members
Why Hearing Health Awareness is Crucial?
- Hearing loss is a prevalent, yet often under-reported and untreated condition in Canada, especially among adults over 40.
- Early intervention is vital, particularly for children, but gaps in coverage and community-centred care persist.
- Social stigma creates barriers to accessing hearing healthcare, leading to isolation.
- This exhibit aims to educate the public, break down stigma, and empower individuals to take control of their hearing health.
- CHHA-BC is committed to bringing this valuable resource to communities across British Columbia.
In Media:
- Oticon’s The Future Is Found (Podcast): May is Speech and Hearing Month with Jessica Niemela (With transcript on the site).
- Vernon Morning Star (Article): Okanagan Science Centre tunes into hearing exhibit
- CBC Radio: On The Coast with Gloria Macarenko (Audio Segment): Hearing loss exhibit (No transcript).
- Recorded Audio with Transcript (Otter.ai – Manually reviewed)
- YouTube: Former Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities Carla Qualtrough’s speech for the 2022 exhibition in Vernon BC (Video).
Visit 'The Way We Hear It!' Exhibition
- Free Admission – All are welcome! Activities for all ages!
- Location: Prince George Public Library – 2nd floor (888 Canada Games Way, Prince George, BC V2L 5T6)
- Dates: Month of May, known as “Better Hearing and Communication Month” or “Speech and Hearing Month.”
- Time: During library hours of operation
Join Us for Our Grand Opening: An Evening of Connection
- Open to Public – Free Admission. All are welcome!
- Location: Keith Gordon Room – Prince George Public Library (888 Canada Games Way, Prince George, BC V2L 5T6)
- Date: May 1st, 2025 at 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Refreshments and a private tour of the exhibit will be provided.
- ASL interpreting and CART captioning provided.
What You Will Experience:
The Sound Journey
- Explore the fascinating path of sound through our auditory system
- Experience real-time sound wave demonstrations
- Understand how our brain processes sound
Protecting Your Hearing
- Learn about noise levels in everyday environments
- Try different types of hearing protection
- Discover best practices for hearing conservation
Understanding Hearing Loss
- Interactive simulations of different types of hearing loss
- Educational displays about causes and prevention
- Personal stories from community members
Technology and Solutions
- Latest hearing assistance devices
- Innovative communication tools
- Assistive listening technology demonstrations
Communication Corner
- Introduction to American Sign Language
- Interactive communication exercises
- Resources for different communication methods
Community Impact
Our exhibition addresses crucial needs:
- Early intervention and awareness
- Breaking down social stigma
- Building community connections
- Promoting inclusive communication
- Supporting lifelong hearing health
2022 - Okanagan
Our first exhibition at Okanagan Science Centre engaged 2,252 people. It inspired us to tour the modular exhibit provincially to raise hearing health awareness.
2024 - Lower Mainland
The Lower Mainland exhibit at Albion Centre engaged 2,187 people, including schools. Provincial tour raises hearing health awareness. Check out the virtual tour and interviews from the exhibition.
2025 - Northen BC
We are coming to Prince George Public Library 2nd floor! Explore Deaf/Hard of Hearing art, tech, and culture. Join us in this May for this immersive experience and discover diverse hearing perspectives.
This exhibit was developed by Jessica Niemela, CHHA-BC secretary, in collaboration with board members, staff, and volunteers.
Contact CHHA-BC for general inquires about the exhibition: info@chha-bc.org / 1-866-888-2442
Thank you to our current and past partners: Northern BC Hearing Society, Caldor Foundation, Provincial Gaming Grant, Okanagan Science Centre, Albion Community Centre, and Prince Gorge Public Library
Thanks to our contributors: WorkSafe BC, Science World Vancouver, Vernon Public Art Gallery, BC Early Hearing Program, Deaf Children’s Society, 3M, Phonak, Oticon, Cochlear America, Wavefront Centre for Communication and Accessibility.
About the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association - BC Chapter (CHHA-BC)
At the heart of the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association – BC Chapter (CHHA-BC) is a strong commitment to building a supportive community for individuals with hearing loss. We offer vital resources, advocate for accessible services, and empower individuals to live fulfilling lives. Through educational initiatives like “The Way We Hear It!” we aim to bridge the gap between hearing and non-hearing communities, fostering empathy and understanding across British Columbia.
Connect with us:
- Email: info@chha-bc.org
- Call: 1-866-888-2442
- The Loop Newsletter: Subscribe
- Socials:
- Donate us: https://chha-bc.org/get-involved/#donate