NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
CommUnity of the Deaf Celebrates Fifth Anniversary
Buford, Ga.—(Sept. 2, 2024)—The CommUnity of the Deaf, Inc. (CUD) celebrates its 3th Anniversary on Sept. 3. This anniversary marks the organization's resilience and unity in the past as it looks forward.
"Although five years may be a short period, we will continue to see and experience new challenges, some of which will be easier to face than others," Founder, President, and CEO of CUD Leonid Johnson. "It will be our modest accomplishment to point to the incredible journey ahead of us.
"I've seen so much improvement in the last five years," Pres. Johnson added. "I appreciate all those who encouraged me not to give up when I had hardship with CUD because it's very unique. Failure is a natural part of the process and how you respond to setbacks will determine your success."
CUD thanks its community partners and supporters: Miranda Alexander, the Founding President and Strategic Project Director of the Caribbean Community in Philadelphia and community partners for Pickney Time Storytime Caribbean Afterschool Program with CUD; and Andrew Sharpe too, the chairman of the Authentic Caribbean Foundation and Board Member of CUD.
"I couldn't have done it without their support to guide me through key milestones," Johnson said. "Thank you for your confidence in me."
Since its establishment in 2019, CUD has made significant strides under the leadership of Director Johnson. Despite starting from scratch without experience in nonprofits, Johnson has led the organization to offer impactful programs such as leadership workshops, training opportunities, and education development programs. These initiatives aim to improve the quality of life for the D/deaf community and D/deaf individuals of Caribbean descent by breaking down barriers of discrimination and opening doors to access resources.
Leonid Johnson grew up in a Jamaican household that deeply valued education. Johnson understands firsthand the challenges D/deaf Jamaicans face every day. As he leads CUD into its future, he redefines the narrative of D/deaf individuals in the Caribbean and worldwide.
"We are calling on generous people in the community to team up with us to help bring continued growth and development to small communities that mostly need them."
Donate or contribute to the CUD's Hurricane Beryl Relief Efforts from Sept. 7-12. The organization is collecting items to assist individuals with disabilities whom the hurricane severely and tragically impacted in the Caribbean. The storm decimated the area in July. The donation drop-off location is 1734 Gray Gables Way, Buford, Ga. For pick-up, please call 1-585-360-0377.
About Leonid Johnson
Leonid is a graduate of Lister Mair/Gilby High School for the Deaf in Kingston, Jamaica, and the National Technical Institute of the Deaf in Rochester, New York. Johnson received his degree in occupation.He served on the United Nations Civil Society Conference Accessibility-Kenya Subcommittee. Additionally, Mr.Johnson attended different conferences and met USAID advisors. He also partners with the Authentic Caribbean Foundation (ACF) for the upcoming Caribbean Disability Conference on Oct. 9-13 in St. George, Grenada.
About the CommUnity of the Deaf, Inc
CommUnity of the Deaf, Inc. is the leading nonprofit organization advocating for the needs of deaf and hard of hearing citizens of Caribbean nationality and the Caribbean Diaspora. Where access to resources has been historically lacking, CUD strives to leave a lasting legacy of cultural change, leadership development, and social equity. Together, we can break through oppressive barriers that have previously compromised the path to success while fighting for policies that preserve, protect, and advance the rights of D/deaf individuals across the globe.
Visit CUD online at unityofthedeaf.com. Interested parties may also contact Pres. Johnson at leonidjohnson@unityofthedeaf.org.
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Contact:
Leonid Johnson
Founder, President, and CEO
Phone: 1-585-360-0377
Website: www.unityofthedeaf.org