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Training and Workshops
Deaf Cultural Awareness Training
Training Details
Lead by: Micki Keck & Certified ASL Interpreter
Cost: $150 for up to 20 participants
Duration: 45-minute course plus a 15-minute Q&A session.
Training Curriculum
Participants will learn about:
- The Deaf culture and perspectives
- Effective communication methods
- Implementing reasonable accommodations for employees and customers
- Using telecommunication relay services and other communication tools
- Developing effective communication strategies
Celebrating Our Deaf Cultural Training Partners
We’ve had the honor of working with businesses and organizations dedicated to creating more inclusive environments through our Deaf Cultural Training. These participants took the time to learn about Deaf culture, effective communication methods, and how to better serve Deaf and Hard of Hearing employees and customers.
We’re grateful for their commitment to accessibility and proud to recognize their efforts in building more welcoming spaces for all.
Not in the KC Metro Area? We’ll come to you!
Basic ASL Workshops
Training for Organizations
Cost: $75 for up to 20 participants
Focus: Group-specific ASL signs
Practice: Hands-on practice with peers and the instructor at the end of the session
Curriculum
This 1-hour workshop, led by Micki Keck, provides an immersive introduction to ASL, tailored to your group’s needs (e.g., Child Care Facilities learning basic infant signs).
Over 10,000 Deaf individuals reside in Greater Kansas City—start learning to communicate effectively today!
Training for Individuals
Learning ASL can break down communication barriers and help build connections with people with disabilities. This class aims to teach basic ASL skills while introducing key aspects of Deaf Culture.
Classes are held every fall and spring with a junior level class in the summer. All will be posted under our Events.
Curriculum
Class Objectives: Participants will learn the manual alphabet, numbers, WH-questions, 100 essential signs, basic conversation phrases, and Deaf Culture. This class does not provide interpreter certification.
No Voice Policy: To encourage active learning and fluency, the class follows a full-immersion approach—no speaking allowed. Embracing ASL-only communication during each 75-minute session helps develop stronger receptive and expressive skills. Full participation is encouraged!
Businesses Making Communication More Inclusive
We’ve had the pleasure of working with some incredible businesses through our ASL Workshop!
Each one has shown a strong commitment to creating more inclusive and accessible spaces for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. We’re proud to recognize them for taking this important step—and we loved every moment of partnering with them.
Meet Our ASL Workshop Leader
Micki Keck
Email: mkeck@thewholeperson.org
About Micki
Michele ‘Micki’ Keck, a fourth-generation Deaf individual, was raised in a mixed Deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing family in Kansas City, MO.
She attended the Kansas School for the Deaf, Gallaudet University, and McDaniel College. With over 25 years of experience teaching ASL and Deaf Studies, Micki now serves as an Independent Living Advocate–Deaf Services at The Whole Person.
Vision Impairment and Blindness Sensitivity Workshop
Training Opportunities
Understanding Vision Impairment:
Use of a cane: Purpose and proper protocol.
Guide dogs: Approved breeds and rules for interacting with them.
Practical Experience:
Blindfolded walk: Safety techniques for assisting someone who is vision impaired or blind.
Visual Conditions and Accessibility:
Eye conditions: Demonstrations of different visual impairments.
Font and color contrast: Reviewing acceptable font sizes, color contrasts, and fonts for better accessibility.
Interactive Learning Environment:
Safe space for questions: Encouraging participants to ask any and all questions.
Proper terminology: Teaching the correct language and terms used within the blind community.
Meet Our Vision Impairment Workshop Leader
Halley Korff, MS
Email: HKorff@thewholeperson.org
About Halley
Halley is a vision-impaired individual who supports all individuals with disabilities. Halley has a B.S. in Psychology from UCM as well as a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Avila University.
Halley has been active in the vision-impaired lifestyle since high school. Since then, Halley has built a career from being a strong advocate as a former Vocational Counselor for the vision impaired and blind. She continues to explore new opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Events
Upcoming Trainings and Workshops
Basic ASL Workshop
Learn Basic American Sign Language! The Whole Person is excited to once again offer our Basic ASL Workshop to the public. Join us on Thursday,