Organization Overview
Deaf Planet Soul, In(DPS)
Empowering Communities. Breaking Barriers. Creating Opportunities.
Deaf Planet Soul, Inc. (DPS) is a Chicago 501(c)(3) serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities. We promote advocacy, education, mentorship, leadership, and community engagement to advance accessibility, equality, independence, careers, and social connections. We bridge Deaf and hearing communities through American Sign Language, cultural awareness, and equal access in schools, workplaces, businesses, and daily life.
What We Do
DPS focuses on five core areas of community empowerment:
Mentorship & Workforce Development:
Supporting career readiness, skilled trades education, transportation access, employment opportunities, and independent living.
Entrepreneurship & Business Advocacy:
Providing business consulting, entrepreneurship guidance, licensing and permit navigation, and resources to support Deaf-owned businesses.
Mental Health & Individual Advocacy:
Connecting individuals with accessible mental health resources, legal referrals, financial education, Social Security guidance, housing assistance, and essential community services.
Community Engagement & Inclusion: Creating opportunities for cultural celebrations, social connections, leadership development, educational workshops, and accessible community gatherings.
ASL Education & Accessibility:
Promoting American Sign Language education, Deaf cultural awareness, communication accessibility, and stronger relationships between Deaf and hearing communities.
Beyond these initiatives, DPS supports community engagement through DPScour, volunteer opportunities, collaborative partnerships, and Milieu by DPS, our vintage-inspired community and event venue in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood.
Our Commitment to Integrity & Transparency
DPS is guided by principles of ethical leadership, organizational accountability, responsible financial stewardship, and transparent communication.We believe trust is built through integrity, collaboration, responsible decision-making, and a genuine commitment to serving our community.
As a nonprofit organization, we strive to ensure our resources, partnerships, and activities remain aligned with our charitable mission and the needs of the people we serve.
Our Vision for the Future
Our vision is to build a more accessible, inclusive, and equitable society where Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals are empowered to lead, succeed, and thrive without unnecessary communication or systemic barriers. Through innovation, education, advocacy, and strong community partnerships, Deaf Planet Soul seeks to create sustainable opportunities that inspire independence, strengthen cultural identity, and encourage future generations of Deaf leaders.
Deaf Planet Soul is more than an organization. It is a community-driven movement dedicated to accessibility, empowerment, opportunity, and lasting positive change
Our Process
Each phase builds on the previous, enabling cumulative insight and continuous optimization.
Articulated objectives
Baseline metrics establish a reference point for subsequent measurement.
Evidence-based insight
Advanced analytics uncover patterns that traditional reviews may overlook.