Signing Families Gathering
A community space where families who sign in any way and at any level can feel connected, supported, and welcomed in Eugene, Oregon.
This is where Deaf, Hard of Hearing, CODA, SODA, and hearing families come together to connect, play, and build community through signing. Whether you use ASL, sign language, home signs, gesture, or you're just beginning your signing journey - you belong here.
About the Gathering
Inspired by the signing family days many of us grew up with at Hilyard Community Center in Eugene, Oregon. We're bringing that tradition back - updated, inclusive, and rooted in connection. This is a space for families to build community through signing.
Sarah Reighley grew up here in Eugene and some of her childhood memories come from those signing family events at Hilyard. They supported her mom as a hearing parent raising a Deaf child in the 90’s.
After moving back in 2017, Sarah hoped to bring those gatherings back for today’s families. It just took almost ten years to finally make it happen. The Signing Families Gathering is her way of giving back to the community that helped raise her.
These gatherings are simple, welcoming, Deaf‑centered, and rooted in the same sense of connection she experienced growing up.
What to Expect
- Kid-Friendly Activities
- Signing Games
- Story Time
- Parents Connection
- Seasonal Activities
- A welcoming space for ALL signing levels.
Flyers & Event Info
How to Support
Your support helps us keep gathering free and accessible for all families.
Share our flyers
Invite other signing families
Help out at a gathering
Become a sponsor
Donate (link coming soon)
Sponsorship Opportunities
Local Businesses and community partners help us keep gatherings free and accessible for all families. Sponsorships directly support Deaf children, CODAs, SODAs, and signing families by covering activity supplies and the community center facility fee that makes these events possible.
If your business or organization would like to support our mission, we'd love to connect.
Contact
We’re always happy to connect with families, community members, and partners.
For questions about gatherings, accessibility, donations, or sponsorship opportunities, email us anytime at signingfamiliesgathering@gmail.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know ASL to attend?
Nope. All signing levels are welcome — from fluent signers to families just starting their ASL journey.
Is this for Deaf families only?
Not at all. Our gatherings include Deaf children, Deaf parents, CODAs, SODAs, and hearing families learning ASL. Everyone is welcome in this Deaf‑centered space.
Is there a cost to attend?
No, gatherings are free. Donations and sponsors support helps cover supplies and the community center facility fee.
What ages is this for?
All ages are welcome. Most activities are geared toward young children, but older kids and siblings always have space to join in.
What are CODAs and SODAs?
CODAs are Children of Deaf Adults — hearing kids who grow up with Deaf parents.
SODAs are Siblings of Deaf Adults — hearing siblings in Deaf families.
Both CODAs and SODAs are part of our community and are always welcome at our gatherings.
Is this a drop‑off event?
No. Parents and caregivers are responsible for supervising their children at all times.
What kind of activities do you offer?
Expect free play, signing games, story time, seasonal crafts, and simple activities that support language and connection.
Will food and drinks be provided at the Signing Families Picnic?
No. Please bring your own lunch, snacks, and drinks for yourself and your family.
Will there be ASL interpreters?
Most gatherings do not include ASL interpreters, since these events are social, play‑based, and Deaf‑centered. Families communicate naturally using a mix of signing skills, gestures, and visual communication.
Naturally, some attendees may be interpreters or strong signers, but they are present as community members, not in a formal interpreting role.
ASL interpreters may be provided for educational events such as workshops, panels, or other structured learning sessions where interpretation supports access.
Will Spanish interpreters be available?
Spanish interpreters are available upon request when we collaborate with Hands & Voices of Oregon. To request one, please contact Amanda directly at amanda@handsandvoicesor.org.
Where are gatherings held?
Gatherings take place at various locations in Eugene, Oregon. Each event’s location will be announced in the Flyers & Event Info section.
How can I help support the gatherings?
You can share flyers, invite families, help out at a gathering, become a sponsor, or donate.
How donations are used?
We believe in being transparent about how donations support Signing Families Gathering.
Depending on the theme and needs of each event, funds may be used for:
• Community center facility fees
• Activity supplies
• Snacks, food, and drinks
• Seasonal or themed materials
• Other event needs as they arise
We are committed to using every donation responsibly to support Deaf children, CODAs, SODAs, and signing families in our community.