Together in Touch: A Learning Retreat for North Carolina DeafBlind Families

From September 5–7, 2025, the North Carolina DeafBlind Project welcomed twenty-seven families to the Great Wolf Lodge for Together in Touch: A Learning Retreat for North Carolina DeafBlind Families. The weekend offered opportunities for families to connect, learn, and build community while enjoying time together.

The retreat began Friday with aquarium visits, followed by check-in, opening remarks, a shared dinner, and the Family Symbol activity. This activity set the tone for the weekend, reminding families that in our journeys with children with disabilities, we often face challenges and wonder how those experiences will shape us. The Family Symbol activity was also designed to give families the opportunity to use their voices, share their experiences, and begin telling their stories in ways that matter beyond the retreat.

By reflecting on their journeys, families are encouraged not only to find strength and community among one another, but also to recognize the power of their stories to influence change. Sharing these lived experiences can inspire participation on decision-making groups, councils, and committees at the local, state, and national level - helping shape the systems that ultimately improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

Saturday featured a full day of learning, with sessions on concept development; AAC and language facilitation strategies for DeafBlind learners; parent counseling and training; and transition planning. Families enjoyed shared meals and breaks to connect with one another.

The event was enriched by the expertise of NC DeafBlind Project staff, who shared insights on developing relationships and communication with DeafBlind children, as well as strategies for transitioning through the years and into adulthood.

Sunday concluded with Family Resources, check-out, and optional aquarium visits for additional family fun. This retreat not only provided practical strategies and resources but also created space for families to learn from one another and strengthen their sense of belonging. Huge thanks to all who made this event possible!

Thank You to Our Presenters and Staff

We are grateful to the North Carolina DeafBlind Project staff for their time and expertise:

• Alan Chase
  
• Neena L. Malosky
  
• Virginia G. Madorin
  
• Sandra Warren

And a big thank you to Brittany Cutshaw, ECAC NC DeafBlind Project Lead, Co-Director NC DeafBlind Project and Aimee Combs, ECAC Executive Director for their time and effort to put together and plan this important and successful event.