History, Vision, and Goals
Our History
Headquartered in Oakland, California, Ability Central is the philanthropic division of the California Communication Access Foundation, a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2003. Ability Central is committed to improving communications and information access for individuals who are D/deaf or disabled and their families and caregivers.
Our Mission and Vision
Our Mission
To serve as a resource, convener, and educator working collaboratively to ensure that people who are Deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent can communicate and access information.
Our Vision
A world where all people have equitable access to communication, empowering them to realize their fundamental right and ability to receive information and express themselves.
Our Values
Compassion
We demonstrate empathy, sensitivity, and kindness for all.
Respect
We show consideration for all, celebrating diversity and the ideas of others.
Learning
We expand our knowledge of programs, services, and technologies by learning from our disability community.
Excellence
We push ourselves to do things right, responding with action and leading by example.
Our Principles
We put our vision and values into action by:
Communicating
We explore needs, publicize resources, and promote opportunities for people with communication disabilities.
Convening
We bring together individuals and organizations committed to communication access to identify needs, share opportunities, and empower one another’s goals.
Collaborating
We work with partners to amplify our voice, leverage our work, and multiply our impact.