Ricky Harris Email & Phone Number

Manager of Special Services and Advocate | Championing Accessibility for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in TexasEmpowering Deaf & Hard of Hearing Communities with 10+ years of experience in disability law, public policy, Deaf Culture, and project management. I lead a high-performing team of 12 specialists across 6 regions in Texas, ensuring exceptional service delivery for clients.Our team bridges the gap through comprehensive support, including:- Advocacy & Self-Advocacy: Equipping clients with the skills for effective communication and access to essential resources.- Assistive Technology Expertise: Providing training and solutions for technology that empowers independence.- Community Connections: Strengthening ties and connecting clients with vital resources.Driven by a passion for inclusion, my deep understanding of Deaf Culture and various hearing loss types fuels my work. I leverage strong interpersonal and communication skills to build relationships, develop effective strategies, and deliver innovative solutions.Beyond my current leadership role, I'm a highly personable Deaf individual with 20+ years of experience in advocacy and leadership roles. I'm fluent in ASL and actively involved in empowering Deaf communities through organizations like:- Houston Commission on Disabilities- CERT, Community Emergency Response Team - Houston Deaf Emergency Response Team- Movie AccessibilityI'm committed to leveraging my expertise to create a more inclusive world where Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals can thrive.

Listed skills include Customer Service, Hospitality, American Sign Language, Public Speaking, and 46 others.

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  Manager Of Special Services

  Sorenson Communications

  Oct 2023 - Present - Houston, Texas, United States

  Driving High-Quality Client Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community in TexasI lead a team of 12 specialists across 6 regions in Texas, overseeing the successful delivery of client services, case management, and group trainings for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. My focus is on ensuring exceptional service quality through supporting and empowering my team while providing strategic oversight of 8 state contracts.I manage Access Specialists, Technology Specialists, and STAP Specialists, equipping each group with a comprehensive skillset across all areas:- Advocacy Services- Assistive Technology- Self-Empowerment- Disclosing Disability- Community Liaison Services- Service Provider Support- Consultation and training on communication strategies- Referrals to community resources for support for hearing loss- Advocacy and teaching self-advocacy skills for effective communication- Consultation and training on culturally-competent service provision, including mandates regarding communication access- Referrals to other community resources