Programs

Global Reach Out Initiative (GRO) strives to create a sustainable global community of Deaf advocates in developing countries through the establishment of peer-to-peer networks and the cross-cultural exchange of knowledge, ideas and experiences.

Program Types

GRO has created two different types of programs: the GRO Spring Break Program and the GRO Summer/Winter Program.

GRO Spring Break Program

Designed to offer an alternative to the traditional spring break, this type of program provides an opportunity for college students to experience a spring break that is more meaningful and enriching. The common model used with this program is a workshop of eight days in a developing country where American delegates have the opportunity to work with their foreign deaf peers.

GRO Summer/Winter Program

This type of program is designed to allow American delegates to spend more time in developing countries working with their foreign deaf peers. This model allows for at least three weeks in which delegates can work intensively on the pressing deaf issues identified in each respective country.

We're in it for the Long Run

In creating a sustainable global community, we are committed to developing a relationship with each country that we visit. Ultimately, this means we will revisit the same countries to continue our collaboration with the deaf communities in GRO’s ever-expanding network. Our delegates range from those who are returning delegates eager to continue making a difference to new delegates who are looking forward to an enriching experience. No matter the type of delegate, all who become involved in a GRO program can always look forward to exploring and implementing new ideas, exchanging information, and simply soaking in the cultural experiences of each unique country that we visit. In short, once you become a GRO delegate, you will experience a spark that will impact your life on some level.