Across Hawai‘i, individuals who are Deaf-Blind are leading their lives with purpose, independence, and resilience. A crucial part of that is having access to services that support their specific needs and challenges. The Hawai‘i Support Service Provider (HISSP) Program, powered by a partnership between the State of Hawai‘i Department of Human Services and Knowledge Services, is designed to provide exactly that.
This program was created to improve access and quality of life for Deaf-Blind persons, and also allows for a meaningful opportunity for community members to become involved as Support Service Providers (SSPs). If you are considering new ways to give back or are passionate about helping individuals with disabilities, the HISSP Program is a great way you can assist.
What is the HISSP Program?
The Hawai‘i Support Service Provider Program connects individuals who are Deaf-Blind with trained Support Service Providers. The role of an SSP is distinct. They are not interpreters or caregivers, instead, they serve as facilitators of communication and access to participants of the HISSP program. SSPs provide a variety of assistance, including:
- Providing access to visual, auditory, and environmental information
- Serving as human guides; orienting participants to their environment
- Interpreting spoken or signed communication and/or facilitating communication
The defining aspect of the HISSP Program is that it is a one-to-one service model. Each SSP is partnered with one Deaf-Blind participant at a time, which allows for an individualized and supportive experience geared to that individual’s unique needs and desires.
The Program’s Effect on the Deaf-Blind Community
For Deaf-Blind individuals, access to information, communication, and their physical environment is essential for independent and dignified living. Support Service Providers help ensure that these individuals are not isolated from the world.
SSPs support equal access by facilitating medical appointments, errands, social outings, and other community events. They assist with reading materials, navigating public spaces, and using technology — tasks that, without proper assistance, can be a barrier.
The HISSP Program respects each person’s preferred means of communication and offers accommodations such as large print, braille, electronic formats, and CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) as requested or as necessary. These accommodations, along with the physical support of SSPs, foster true community inclusion.
Accessible meetings, transportation, and day-to-day interactions can be challenging for Deaf-Blind individuals. The HISSP Program helps fill these gaps, allowing program participants to make their own choices, participate fully, and live independently.
Why Become a Support Service Provider?
Serving as a Support Service Provider is not just a job, but an opportunity to build relationships and leave a lasting impact on someone’s life. SSPs empower Deaf-Blind individuals by supporting their independence and facilitating active community participation.
Many SSPs find the HISSP experience to be enlightening and personally enriching. It provides a new understanding of communication, connection, and the value of inclusion.
The HISSP Program is also designed with flexibility and equity in mind:
- Assignments are made based on your availability
- There is a two-hour minimum billable period per assignment
- And you’ll participate in quarterly meetings with an opportunity to receive support, feedback, and ongoing program development
This would be an ideal position for students, working professionals, retirees, and anyone who has a strong interest in serving others in a fulfilling way.
How to Get Involved
Becoming an SSP is simple. Here is what is required to join the HISSP Program:
- Background check
- Negative TB test result
- Valid driver’s license (if using a personal vehicle for assignments)
- Valid personal auto insurance (if using a personal vehicle)
- Any applicable certifications
If you meet all of the requirements above, here is the list of required documentation to join the program:
- Complete and return your application
- Complete, sign, and return a W9 and the Master Services Agreement (MSA)
- Complete and sign the Code of Ethics Form
- Complete and sign the Compliance Form
- Complete and sign the ACH/EFT Disbursement Set-Up Form to receive direct deposit payments (optional)
Once all documents are returned and approved, our team will walk you through the next steps and get you started.
Become a Part of the Hawai‘i Support Service Provider Program Today
The Hawai‘i Support Service Provider Program reflects our belief that everyone deserves access, respect, and the ability to participate fully in their community. Support Service Providers help make this vision a reality.
If you are looking for a fulfilling way to give back and create strong, lasting relationships, we encourage you to learn more about the HISSP Program.
If you have questions, would like to attend one of our quarterly SSP/Program participant meetings, or just want to get started, contact us today.
Website: SSP Program Page – HISSP Interested SSPs – Knowledge Services
Email: HISSP@knowledgeservices.com
Local O‘ahu Contact:
Kiley Cagasan
Voice: (808) 818-1732
Voice/Text: (808) 647-1274
