American Sign Language Classes for the Community Offered at Three Locations
Amy Turner, Executive Director
Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center
amyturner@dhhc.life
(239) 461-0334, ext. 6
December 23, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
American Sign Language Classes for the Community Offered at Three Locations
FORT MYERS, FL — The Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center (DHHC) is excited to announce new class dates for its popular American Sign Language (ASL) Level 1 courses beginning in January 2026. Classes are open to the public, are beginner-friendly, and offer an excellent opportunity to build communication skills and connect with the local Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
Classes meet weekly from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the following locations:
Bonita Springs/Naples
Tuesdays starting January 13, 2026
Location: (Inside the Goodwill building) 11601 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Fort Myers
Thursdays starting January 8, 2026
Mondays starting March 2, 2026
Location: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center (DHHC) 1860 Boy Scout Drive B208, Fort Myers, FL 33907
Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda
Mondays starting January 12, 2026
Thursdays starting February 19, 2026
Location: United Way of Charlotte, 17831 Murdock Cir A, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
The cost for the five-week course is $75, with free enrollment for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Immediate family members are eligible for discounted pricing. Students who complete the course will receive a Certificate of Accomplishment. To register, visit www.dhhc.life or bring payment to the first class.
DHHC also offers a free ASL Family Class specifically for parents of school-aged Deaf or hard-of-hearing children. These no-cost biweekly sessions are held on Tuesdays from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM in Fort Myers and from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM in Lehigh Acres. Siblings and other family members are welcome and encouraged to attend, creating a supportive space for families to build communication skills together. In addition to learning basic sign language, families gain valuable insight into Deaf Culture, helping them better support and connect with their Deaf loved ones.
Amy Turner, Executive Director of DHHC, shared, “We are so thankful for our United Way partnership which enables us to serve more Deaf and hard of hearing individuals and expand critical services across counties,” Turner continued, “Learning American Sign Language is like learning any new language—it opens your world. It strengthens communication, keeps your mind active, and connects you to a vibrant culture and meaningful new relationships.”
About the Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center
The mission of the Sally J. Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center (DHHC), established in 1983, is to empower Deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens and their families in Southwest Florida through education, advocacy, and community engagement. Serving Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades counties, DHHC offers services such as interpreting, ASL classes, mentoring, support groups, and advocacy. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and United Way partner agency, DHHC receives support from local organizations, private donors, and community leaders. For more information, visit www.dhhc.life, email info@dhhc.life, or call (239) 461-0334 or (239) 247-5821 (video phone for the Deaf).
United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades
For more information about United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades and its efforts to strengthen education, financial stability, and health throughout the community, visit www.unitedwaylee.org.
United Way of Charlotte County
For more information about United Way of Charlotte County and its efforts to strengthen education, financial stability, and health throughout the community, visit www.unitedwaycc.org.
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Amy Turner, Executive Director
Sally J. Pimentel Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center
(239) 461-0334
amyturner@dhhc.life
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