It can be confusing to choose among the many charities in existence today. Selecting which charities to support financial is based on several factors including the cause itself, the reputation of the organization and the intended use of the funds. You can become a part of one of many national and international charity organizations that lend their time and resources to helping those in need of better hearing health.

Hearing Health Foundation

Hearing Health Foundation was founded in the 1950s by Collette Baker Ramsey to help serve people with hearing loss. This organization fosters research to treat and cure hearing loss and promotes the prevention of hearing conditions through public education. For example, the largest research project at the moment focuses on cures for tinnitus. There are many ways to help out with this foundation. The foundation accepts one-time gifts and monthly donations, as well as other financial contributions. If you prefer to be involved in a more hands-on way, you can share with them your personal experience with hearing loss or tinnitus, participate in fundraisers, or offer to name one of their research grants. Visit their website at www.hearinghealthfoundation.org for more information, news and updates.

Starkey Hearing Foundation

Starkey Hearing Foundation is a national and international organization that offers three programs for hearing needs: Hear Now, Listen Carefully, and Hearing Aid Recycling. The Listen Carefully program provides education to school age children on the dangers of listening to high-decibel music. Their Hearing Aid Recycling program offers a place for you to donate your old hearing aids as gifts to those who cannot otherwise afford them. The Hear Now program focuses on providing hearing aids to those who cannot afford them on their own. To get contact details for each organization or to give a monetary gift, visit www.starkeyhearingfoundation.org.

Hearing Loss Association of America

The largest organization dedicated to helping people with hearing loss is the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA). The Association works to provide access, support, and assistance to those with hearing loss and their families. HLAA does work on a local, state and national level and part of its mission is to influence legislation that impacts the hearing impaired. Visit the HLAA website at www.hearingloss.org to become a member or for information about upcoming charity walks in your area.