Deaf and Hearing Community Support
Named by Deaf children created to Bridge the Gap Between the Deaf and Hearing communities.
DBAS was originally established in 1989 as a 501 c3 organization by Patricia Riley. The original goal of DBAS was to bring hope and empowerment to thousands of children from all over the world on various levels. Over the years, DBAS has evolved into a powerful force for hope and empowerment, not only for children but also for the Deaf and hearing communities, effectively implementing community bridging programs that address the needs and desires of families.
DBAS's main objective is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of at-risk and disabled children, helping them feel a connection to the abled world. Thanks to your support, we continue to positively impact the lives of ASL users and empower disabled children, making the impossible possible.
Three people posing indoors against a beige wall.
Current Goals Don't Be a Sap...
Current Goals
Current Goals of Don't Be A Sap, It's a Booby Trap (DBAS)
At DBAS, our mission is to create a more inclusive community where Deaf, ASL, disability, and hearing families have equal opportunities to communicate, learn, and thrive. Our current goals include:
📚 Expand Access to Inclusive Books
Provide inclusive books to Deaf, ASL, disability, and underserved families to encourage literacy, language development, and meaningful connections through accessible storytelling.
🎒 Support Students Through Our Back-to-School Initiative
Provide backpacks, school supplies, and educational resources to children with disabilities and families experiencing financial hardship, helping ensure every child begins the school year with the tools they need to succeed.
🎭 Grow Our School & Community Enrichment Programs
Continue expanding our educational workshops, performances, and interactive programs throughout schools, libraries, and community organizations in Florida and Alabama. Through the arts, ASL, and inclusive activities, we aim to strengthen communication, fine motor skills, cognitive development, social skills, confidence, and self-expression.
🎬 Produce The Evergreen Christmas Tree ASL Short Film
Bring our inclusive American Sign Language short film to life, promoting kindness, accessibility, environmental stewardship, and authentic representation while creating meaningful opportunities for Deaf and hearing communities to connect.
🏠 Establish a Permanent Inclusive Community Center
Work toward securing a permanent facility in the Pensacola, Florida area that will serve as a hub for inclusive classes, performances, life-skills training, support services, and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, special needs families, and underserved members of our community.
🤝 Expand Community Partnerships & Outreach
Strengthen partnerships with schools, libraries, businesses, and community organizations to increase access to inclusive programming, educational resources, and support services while reaching more families across the Gulf Coast region.
🌟 Build a Sustainable Future for DBAS
Increase fundraising efforts, recruit volunteers, and secure grants and sponsorships that allow DBAS to expand its programs, reach more families, and create lasting opportunities for individuals of all abilities.
These goals reflect our commitment to building a more inclusive, accessible, and connected community where every individual has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.