History of MWADB

Brief History of MWADB
(Past and Present Officers List Below)

In the mid-1970’s, Gallaudet College established a community education program for DeafBlind adults, under the direction of Art Roehrig.  Several DeafBlind individuals participated in the courses over the next several years, and the idea of a DeafBlind Community gathering came up repeatedly, though there was no information on where or how to initiate such a forum.  DeafBlind individuals continued to meet at the Gallaudet classes, and in each other’s homes, generating ideas and opinions.

On September 25, 1982, Rod Macdonald who was then the President of the American Association of the DeafBlind (AADB) and his wife, Ele, invited a group of dynamic DeafBlind folks, their families and their friends who became support service providers (SSP) for a potluck dinner at their home.   To our amazement, we shared similar isolation and frustrating experiences.  After our delicious dinner, Rod gave an impressive talk on how to start a DeafBlind social club in the metro area.  Everyone loved the idea, which sparked the beginning of our unique social group.  Each DeafBlind individual took a turn in hosting a potluck dinner in his or her home on the third Saturday of each month.

On April 19, 1984, the social gathering at the home of Reverend Jay and Frances Croft grew and grew.  And the group decided to officially have the organization called Metro Washington Club for the Deaf-Blind (MWCDB).  The election took place and Jack Wright was the first president, Debbie Falek was vice president and secretary was Earlene Duncan and Ann Black as treasurer.

During the three-year term, the officers established the by-laws.  Also, we hosted a reception for the 1986 AADB convention on the campus of Gallaudet College in Washington, D.C.  In June 1986, the organization’s name changed to Metropolitan Washington Association of the DeafBlind (MWADB).  Then in November of 1987 elections officially took place and from that time on every two years elections are held.  Various activities: popular Thanksgiving pot luck dinner, picnic, camping and various recreational activities, guest speakers, SSP training, deaf-blind support group meetings and fund raising.

MWADB has grown throughout the years and had a forty-year celebration in 2024. We hope you will join us to learn more about our organization.

MWADB WELCOMES YOUR FINANCIAL SUPPORT AS WELL AS A VOLUNTEER.