Our Mission

"The HeArd" is what?

The HeArd (a program of TISC, Inc.) is a body of professional sign language interpreters who serve the TISC, Inc mission by providing high-quality creative sign language interpretation to the public performing arts of Northeast Ohio.

The TISC, Inc. Mission Statement

TISC, Inc. (doing business as The HeArd) is dedicated to bringing a greater Deaf presence to audiences by providing sign language interpretation at theatrical performances throughout Greater Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.

"TISC, Inc." is what?

Theatrical Interpreting Services of Cleveland, Inc. (TISC, Inc.) is the non-profit organization that oversees all behind-the-scenes activities of the The HeArd.  Its volunteer board of trustees meets regularly in accord with specific by-laws and holds special committee meetings to handle ongoing decisions as needs arise.

Examples of work addressed by TISC, Inc. include: 

• Managing all projects and financial activities of The HeArd

• Fostering partnerships between HeArd interpreters, Deaf mentors, and skilled sign consultants to ensure the linguistic integrity of The HeArd's work

• Encouraging ongoing professional development of HeArd interpreters through workshop and conference activities as well as local signing events

• Developing and facilitating guidelines for the theatrical venues that contract HeArd interpreters for performance interpreting assignments

• Developing promotional and educational materials for www.heardwhatsup.com, for print production, and face-to-face presentations in educational settings

• Furthering the art and skill set of theatrical interpreting by conducting the HeArd's volunteer understudy program available to professional interpreters

• Engaging Deaf audience participants in dialogue about their experience in theater

• Finding ways to give back to the Deaf community which has given so much to us

• ... And an endless, growing list of other activities, continually generated through the enthusiastic discussion and efforts of a diverse board of trustees serving the mission and vision of TISC, Inc.