History
2001
Hands That Speak (HTS) was founded in September 2001
by three individuals who saw the need to assist the
Deaf & Hearing Impaired spiritually. They were Michael
Anthony, Denise George and Delorese Cotton. In addition
to their spiritual needs, social and educational development
were other initial goals.
2002
HTS was registered under the Friendly Societies Act,
Cap 184 in September 2002. On Sunday 8th September 2002,
we celebrated our first anniversary and formal launching
at the Villa Baptist Church, located on Amy Byer Street.
The School for the Deaf also be celebrated its anniversary
and played an active role in the proceedings. Among
our guests were officials from the Ministries of Health
& Education, representatives of various clubs such
as the Kiwanis, and leaders of numerous church denominations.
During the week after the launch we conducted various
interviews with the media, visits to various primary
and secondary schools and on Friday 13th September there
was an open day at the School for the Deaf which is
located on Nugent Drive, on the TN Kirnon school grounds.
2003
HTS used his year to increase membership, minister to
the Deaf and formulate plans for the coming year.
2004
HTS co-hosted a Dance Festival in collaboration with
Youth for Christ to raise funds for our building project.
The activity was held on 6th & 7th August and saw
the participation of many local and regional individuals
who ministered mainly in dance, mime and flag worship.
YFC donated $6,000EC from the proceeds.
On
8th September 2004 HTS held its anniversary dinner at
the City View Hotel where the achievements of the year
were highlighted. Certificates of appreciation were
given to some of the deaf individuals who usually attend
meetings and activities, for their faithfulness. On
Sunday 12th HTS visited the Grace Hill Moravian Church
in Liberta (affiliate church).
2005
HTS became re-registered as Hands That Speak Inc, a
Non-Profit Company (#229/05), Incorporated on 23rd May
2005 under the Companies Act of Antigua and Barbuda
1995 (No. 18). Other achievements this year included
the Launching of a Communications project (Phase I),
which saw the introduction of TTY's. There was also
a Gala fundraising Benefit Dinner on 26th November,
which was held under the Patronage of their Excellencies
the Governor General Sir James Carlisle and Lady Carlisle,
to raise funds for the establishment of the Center for
the Deaf.
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